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Bluetongue Virus

The bluetongue virus restriction zone has been extended and now includes parts of Leicestershire.

Bluetongue is a disease which affects:

  • alpacas
  • cattle
  • deer
  • goats
  • llamas
  • sheep

The disease is caused by a virus that is spread by biting midges.

A map of the restriction zone can be found at APHA Bluetongue Interactive disease map

Signs of bluetongue

The signs of bluetongue include, fever, crusting and ulcers around muzzle area, swollen head, salivating and lameness. In severe cases, it can cause abortions, malformations, and death in animals. Clinical signs are not always present despite infection.

For guidance on spotting bluetongue please visit Bluetongue: how to spot and report it (GOV.UK)

It does not affect people or food safety, and meat and milk are safe to eat and drink.

Report bluetongue

If you keep any of these animals, including as pets, you must be vigilant and check for symptoms and report any signs of bluetongue to the Animal and Plant Health Agency on 03000 200 301

 

Bluetongue is a notifiable disease, if you do not report it, you are breaking the law.

Moving animals in the restriction zone

To move animals in the restriction zone, you may require a licence. Licences are issued by the Animal and Plant Health Agency. More information is available at Bluetongue movement licences (GOV.UK)

Further reading

The Animal and Plant Health Agency have produced several helpful videos which can be viewed on the APHA YouTube channel