Bluetongue confirmed on nearly 500 Welsh farms as livestock farmers urged to vaccinate
The Chief Veterinary Officer for Wales says early vaccination is vital as 498 cases of BTV-3 are confirmed across the country.
Nearly 500 farms across Wales have confirmed cases of Bluetongue virus, prompting the Chief Veterinary Officer for Wales to urge livestock keepers to prepare for next year by vaccinating their animals early.
The Welsh Government confirmed 498 cases of Bluetongue virus serotype 3 (BTV-3) in Wales as of Thursday, 29 October.
Chief Veterinary Officer Dr Richard Irvine said livestock keepers should act now to protect their herds and flocks ahead of the 2027 Bluetongue season.
He said: “We are now reaching a significant milestone, with almost 500 farms across Wales with confirmed BTV-3 cases this season.
“This reflects the continued widespread nature and impact of the disease across Wales and Great Britain, and underlines why vaccination must remain a priority for keepers of susceptible animals.”
Dr Irvine said vaccination was the only viable long-term measure to protect livestock against the virus, warning that Bluetongue would persist over the winter and could return next year.
He pointed to the impact of the disease in south-west England this summer, saying Wales could face a similar situation in 2027.
Livestock keepers are being urged to speak to their vets and place vaccine orders in good time, as demand could outstrip supply when disease pressure increases.
Dr Irvine warned that those who leave vaccination until the last minute risk being unable to obtain supplies when they need them.
He said early action would help protect livestock and demonstrate demand for BTV-3 vaccines, supporting continued commercial supplies.
Farmers are also being advised to learn the signs of Bluetongue and take care when bringing replacement animals onto their holdings. Keepers should check an animal’s Bluetongue status and ask whether it has been vaccinated before moving it onto their farm.