03/08/2026
🦟 Bluetongue Virus (BTV) – Please Don't Wait to Act
By now you've probably heard a lot about Bluetongue Virus (BTV) in the news, with the disease rapidly approaching West Cornwall.
From the experiences of our veterinary colleagues in North Cornwall and Devon, it is clear that this year's outbreak has been more severe than last year. More animals have been affected within individual flocks and herds, and there has been an increase in sudden deaths in sheep.
As BTV is spread by biting midges, and with current weather conditions favouring their activity, they are expected to remain active until at least January.
Unfortunately, we have to assume that it is only a matter of time before we are in a similar situation. That's why we are encouraging our clients to plan ahead and act now.
💉 Vaccination
Bluetongue is caused by a virus, meaning there is no specific treatment once animals become infected. We can only provide supportive care to help affected animals recover.
We do, however, have a vaccine available. Protection takes around three weeks to develop, so if you are planning to vaccinate, please don't wait until cases are on our doorstep.
🐑 Sheep
Sheep have experienced the greatest losses during recent outbreaks, so we would strongly encourage vaccination for sheep and other small ruminants, including goats.
• Single injection under the skin from 3 months of age, followed by an annual booster
• We will coordinate vaccine bottle sharing wherever possible to help reduce costs.
If you'd like to be included in a bottle share, please contact us as soon as possible, as groups are filling up quickly.
🐄 Cattle
To date, disease in cattle has generally been less severe. However, infection can still result in significant production losses, particularly through reduced milk yields and decreased fertility. For this reason, we recommend prioritising breeding stock for vaccination.
• Two injections given three weeks apart, followed by an annual booster
• From 2 months of age
• Full protection is achieved three weeks after the second dose
As immunity takes longer to develop in cattle, early planning is even more important.
⚠️ Bluetongue is a Notifiable Disease
If you suspect Bluetongue, it is a legal requirement to report it to DEFRA on 03000 200 301. Reporting suspected cases also allows us to arrange DEFRA-funded testing to confirm the disease for up to three animals showing clinical signs.
Please note that due to the high number of cases currently being investigated, laboratory results are taking up to two weeks, meaning the published maps of confirmed cases are likely to lag behind the true situation.
Clinical signs to look out for:
🦠 Ulcers or sores in the mouth and nose
🦠 Swelling of the lips, tongue, head, neck or coronary band (where the skin meets the hoof)
🦠 Fever
🦠 Lameness
🦠 Abortions, stillbirths or foetal deformities
🦠 Deaths in newborn calves and lambs
🦠 Sudden death in sheep
If you have any concerns or suspect Bluetongue in your animals, please contact us immediately.
We're here to support you through these uncertain times, answer your questions, and help you make the best decisions for the health of your flock or herd.
