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21 Aug 2018
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Symptoms to look out for as Bluetongue detected in imported cattle
Farmers have been urged to remain on standby for Bluetongue virus BTV-8 after a number of cases were detected in cattle imported from France.
Lauren Dean
The Animal Plant and Health Agency (APHA) recognised the disease through the post-import testing regime in about 32 cattle brought to Preston and Kendal, England and Dumfries, Scotland.
UK chief veterinary officer Nigel Gibbens and chief veterinary officer for Scotland Sheila Voas are on high alert and urged those considering importing cattle from infected regions to have appropriate paperwork to ensure certain conditions are met to reduce disease risk, including correct vaccination.
BVA senior vice president Gudrun Ravetz said the outbreak came as a reminder to farmers of the importance of responsible sourcing of animals and highlighted a need to fully understand the potential disease risks of importing animals from areas where disease is present.
Timely reminder
Mr Gibbens said: “This detection is a good example of robust disease surveillance procedures in action and should highlight to farmers the risks which come with bringing animals from disease-affected areas into their herds.
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“It is also a timely reminder for farmers that the disease is still a threat, despite coming towards the end of the period when midges are most active. Keepers must remain vigilant and report any suspicions to APHA.”
The UK remains officially Bluetongue-free and exports are not affected. Action is being taken to ensure no spread of the disease, with movement restrictions at the affected premises, targeted surveillance and humane culling where necessary.
All of the animals which tested positive, cattle with a high risk of being infected with the BTV-8 strain and those which had not been vaccinated before being exported will be humanely culled.
Symptoms to look out for:
- Eye and nasal discharge
- Drooling
- Swelling around the head or mouth
- Lethargy
- Lameness
Bluetongue is a notifiable disease and any suspicions must be reported for the APHA on 0300 020 0301 for England, 0300 303 8268 for Wales, regional Field Services Offices in Scotland or 0300 200 7840 for Northern Ireland.
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