Bluetongue vaccine now available for British farmers as disease remains high possibility

Vaccination is the best way to protect Britain’s livestock, and farmers are being encouraged to talk to their vets to decide if the vaccine could help their businesses
Vaccination is the best way to protect Britain’s livestock, and farmers are being encouraged to talk to their vets to decide if the vaccine could help their businesses

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has announced that bluetongue (BTV-8) vaccine is now available from two pharmaceutical retailers to manage the risk of a BTV incursion.

There is a high risk of an outbreak of Bluetongue (BTV-8) towards the end of the summer as a result of infected midges being blown across the English Channel from France, where the disease is present.

The disease affects all ruminants, but particularly cattle and sheep. It poses no threat to human health and does not affect meat, milk or other animal products.

Report Bluetongue immediately to the Animal and Plant Health Agency on 03000 200 301
Report Bluetongue immediately to the Animal and Plant Health Agency on 03000 200 301

Government Deputy Chief Veterinary Officer Simon Hall, said: "It’s fantastic news that the vaccine is now available.

"This is the perfect time to talk to your vet as the vaccine is the only effective tool to prevent illness.

"I am urging our livestock farmers to keep an eye out for any signs of the disease and report any suspicions to their vet and the Animal and Plant Health Agency immediately, so we can work together to reduce the possible spread of Bluetongue this summer.

At the start of June, the British Veterinary Association (BVA) and other veterinary bodies welcomed the announcement that bluetongue (BTV-8) vaccine would be available by mid-July.

Since the Defra risk assessment indicates a high risk by late summer of a BTV incursion from France, veterinary associations have been involved in discussions with government, farmers’ representatives and manufacturers to ensure vaccine is available to meet potential demand particularly in the south of England where risk is highest.

The situation remains under constant review by Defra as the disease develops and the weather warms up, promoting midge activity.

Pharmaceutical companies MSD and Zoetis announced that batches of vaccine would be available from mid-July, which Defra has just confirmed.

Joint campaign Against Bluetongue

Vets across the UK are also contributing to the Joint campaign Against Bluetongue (JAB), helping to make farmers aware of the risk, clinical signs and what action to take, through speaking at local JAB information events and displaying posters and leaflets in practices.

While welcoming the announcement of vaccine availability in June, veterinary organisations also sought clarification about the cost and the amount of vaccine likely to be available in July and thereafter

BVA President Sean Wensley said: "We welcome the announcement that vaccine will be available in time to meet potential demand.

"This disease seriously affects animal health and welfare as well as the productivity of livestock, and vaccination is the key control.

"We recommend farmers speak to their local vet about the benefits of vaccination, taking into account their locality and individual circumstances.

"Farmers should not hesitate to seek advice if they have any concerns about their livestock."