UK's first case of bluetongue virus found at Norfolk farm

Romney sheep graze the grass around the dormant vines at Nyetimber's Manor Vineyard at West Chiltington in West Sussex. The herd from a local farm form part of Nyetimber's sustainability program and are utilised for vineyard maintenance, keeping the grass low, reducing the risk of frost, maintaining grass leys on the estate and saving the cost of fuel for mowing. Along with keeping the weeds in check their droppings aid localised microflora and microfauna. Picture date: Friday February 11, 2022. CREDIT PA
Bluetongue - which is not dangerous to humans - has been found in a sheep near Haddiscoe in south Norfolk. Credit: PA

A virus that can impact sheep and cows has been detected at a farm in Norfolk - the first case this summer.

Bluetongue - which is not dangerous to humans but could affect livestock - has been found in a sheep near Haddiscoe in south Norfolk.

It is the first animal in England to show symptoms of the virus this season, the UK's deputy chief veterinary officer confirmed.

Between November 2023 and March 2024 there were 126 cases in the UK, centred around Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex and Kent.

What is bluetongue, how does it spread and why are farmers worried?

The spring and summer are seen as the more active seasons for the virus because of the prevalence of midges, and the case in south Norfolk is the first of the summer.

Also called BTV3, the virus can reduce milk yield for some animals, and can be fatal - although some animals have no symptoms.

It does not affect people, and meat and milk from infected livestock are safe to eat and drink.

The virus is mainly transmitted by midge bites and affects cattle, goats, sheep, deer, llamas and alpacas.

The Animal and Plant Health Agency is restricting the movement of animals and their products within 20km of the affected farm.

It is also investigating whether the virus is circulating in the UK. Cases are already rising in northern Europe.

Warmer weather and midge activity means the virus can spread easily.

UK deputy chief veterinary officer Ele Brown said farmers should check their animals frequently and report any suspicions to the Animal and Plant Health Agency.

Free testing is available for animals moving from and to the highest risk counties.

NFU president Tom Bradshaw said: “This is a worrying development. We urge all livestock keepers to remain vigilant for any signs of clinical disease and to report any concerns quickly to their vet or APHA.

“The NFU is working with Defra and APHA to understand the rules and situation around movement restrictions, licensing requirements and surveillance.”

Want a quick and expert briefing on the biggest news stories? Listen to our latest podcasts to find out What You Need To Know