Bluetongue cases continue to rise and are being detected in Wales, England and now in Scotland. Sheep are being severely affected but the disease is affecting cattle also. The number of cases reported as positive refers to the number of farms that have tested positive and not the number of animals (which is far greater). The reporting of these positives cases is around 2 weeks behind the current situation and so please be aware that the situation is unfortunately much worse. The links here provided excellent information on clinical signs, reporting of a case (it must be reported as it is a notifiable disease) and vaccination. Vaccination remains the only way to protect livestock and it is not too late, with more cases expected into October.
Image credit Rachel Forster Market Vet Group
For the latest case updates:
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/bluetongue-latest-situation
For information about clinical signs and testing:
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/bluetongue
Further BTV guidance and resources:
https://ruminanthw.org.uk/bluetongue-virus-hub/