Bluetongue Zone Expansion Eases Farm Trade Restrictions, but Vaccination Remains Essential

Expanding the bluetongue zone will remove the need for movement permits during the autumn trading period, reducing the administrative burden on farmers at a critical time in the trading calendar.

Mr Fairley said the decision would not change the long-term approach to tackling bluetongue.

“The expansion of the zone removes the need for movement permits, but does not change our long-term approach to tackling this disease,” he said.

Farmers urged to plan bluetongue vaccination

Vaccination remains the single most effective way for farmers to protect susceptible livestock from the worst effects of bluetongue.

Mr Fairley urged farmers to contact their veterinarians to discuss the appropriate vaccination approach and secure supplies for next year’s high-risk season.

“We strongly encourage anyone with susceptible livestock to contact their veterinarian now to discuss the appropriate vaccination approach and secure supplies for next year’s high-risk season,” he added.

A joint Scottish Government and industry communications group has been established to promote vaccination and share advice with farmers and veterinarians on the impact of bluetongue.

Industry welcomes move to simplify trade

Neil Shand, chief executive of the Scottish Beef Association, said the decision was “the most logical way to avoid complicating trade”.

National Sheep Council policy manager Michael Priestley said there was a “trade-off” between the benefits of easing restrictions and the increased risk of virus spread.

He said the decision was based on confidence in vaccine technology, which has historically provided excellent cover for livestock in affected areas of the UK.

Bluetongue symptoms in livestock

Symptoms of bluetongue include a runny nose in cows, redness and swelling of the lips, nose and muzzle, lameness or unwillingness to stand, decreased milk production and diarrhoea.

Cases must be reported to the UK Government’s Animal and Plant Health Agency, which publishes daily updates.