Bluetongue tops 900 UK premises as farmers urged to stay alert

Bluetongue has now been confirmed on over 900 UK premises this season, prompting fresh warnings for livestock farmers to remain vigilant while biting midge activity remains high.

Official figures for the 2026 to 2027 season show 910 affected premises, including 791 in England, 98 in Wales and 21 in Scotland. No cases have been recorded in Northern Ireland.

A case is defined as a premises where at least one animal has tested positive for bluetongue.

No cases of bluetongue serotype 8 (BTV-8) have been confirmed during the current season, with the outbreak involving bluetongue serotype 3 (BTV-3).

The rising number of infections has prompted CLA Cymru to urge livestock farmers to monitor animals closely and discuss vaccination options with their vet.

CLA Cymru director Victoria Bond said: “The rise in bluetongue cases is a major concern for livestock farmers across Wales. We know many are already dealing with significant welfare, emotional and financial impacts.”

She said vaccination should form an important part of farm preparations alongside close monitoring and sensible livestock movement decisions.

“While there is no single solution, vaccination is one of the strongest defences available against BTV-3,” Ms Bond said.

“We encourage all livestock keepers to discuss the options for their flock or herd with their vet and to put a clear plan in place.”

Bluetongue is spread by biting midges, and farmers are also being encouraged to take practical steps to reduce exposure.

Ms Bond added: “The situation is evolving rapidly and it is vital that farmers remain vigilant, report any suspected cases promptly and make full use of the latest guidance.”

Bluetongue is a notifiable disease, meaning suspected cases must be reported to the Animal and Plant Health Agency.

Where animals showing suspected clinical signs are reported, Defra funds diagnostic testing for up to three affected animals.

CLA Cymru said BTV-3 does not result in movement restrictions at individual animal or farm level, although suspected bluetongue and cattle abortions must still be reported.

Against the backdrop of rising case numbers, the Ruminant Health and Welfare Group has launched an industry-wide survey to build a clearer picture of how BTV-3 is affecting farms during 2026.

The survey is open to all dairy and livestock farmers, including those who have not had bluetongue confirmed on their holdings.

It asks about the impact of the disease on herds and flocks, current BTV status and farmers’ views on vaccination.

The NFU is encouraging farmers to take part, saying the results will help the industry understand what is happening on farms and prepare for the continuing impact of the disease.

NFU acting Livestock Board chair Clare Wise said: “Bluetongue is a significant threat in our lives as farm business owners and animal custodians.”

She added: “That’s why it is so important everyone takes part in the survey to help our industry best prepare for the ongoing fight against this terrible disease.”

The Ruminant Health and Welfare Group wants responses from farmers regardless of whether their livestock have tested positive, helping to build a more representative picture across the country.

Testing capacity has also been stepped up as authorities respond to growing demand during the outbreak.

APHA’s Weybridge laboratories are now testing bluetongue samples alongside The Pirbright Institute, the National Reference Laboratory for the disease.

The move is intended to speed up the delivery of test results as case numbers continue to rise.

A bluetongue case map is also available showing premises across Great Britain where one or more animals have tested positive by PCR.

Farmers are being urged to continue monitoring livestock, discuss vaccination with their vet and report suspected cases promptly.