Nearly 500 Welsh farms hit by bluetongue virus outbreak

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 30 Oct, 08:38 · Archive

Nearly 500 farms in Wales have been confirmed with bluetongue virus since July.

Nearly 500 farms across Wales have been confirmed with bluetongue virus since July, according to the Welsh Government. Powys is the worst-hit Welsh county with 83 confirmed cases. Cases of bluetongue virus serotype 3 (BTV-3) have been confirmed across Wales.

The disease is spread by midges and is prevalent in the late summer months. Dr Richard Irvine, Chief Veterinary Officer for Wales, described the outbreak as reflecting 'the continued widespread nature and impact of the disease across Wales and Great Britain'. He warned that vaccination must remain a priority for keepers of susceptible animals and is 'the only viable long-term measure to protect livestock against Bluetongue'.

Dr Irvine urged farmers to act early ahead of the 2027 season, noting that 'bluetongue will persist over the winter'. He also cautioned that vaccine supplies could become limited if demand surges late in the season, suggesting keepers plan vaccination programmes in advance.

How it is being reported

• Bluetongue confirmed on more than 500 Welsh farmsThe recorded cases of bluetongue this season, have prompted a fresh warning to farmers for 2027Cambrian News · 30 Oct, 08:00
• Almost 500 Welsh farms hit by bluetongue as keepers urged to vaccinate earlyNearly 500 farms in Wales have been hit by an outbreak of bluetongue virus this year. Powys is Wales' worst-hit county.County Times · 29 Oct, 15:36

In this story: Wales · Powys · Dr Richard Irvine · Welsh Government

This summary was written by AI from the headlines and standfirsts above, and states as fact only what at least two outlets report. How we use AI · Report a problem · Corrections log