More than 100 cases of Bluetongue have now been confirmed in Wales, with livestock keepers being urged to remain vigilant and consider vaccination.
The Welsh Government has said keepers should continue to follow its current guidance and immediately report any suspected cases to the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA).
If a suspected case cannot be ruled out during an initial telephone assessment, a Veterinary Inspector will visit the premises to investigate and determine whether laboratory testing is required.
Currently, up to three samples can be taken per farm for testing, with the cost covered by the Welsh Government. This means there is currently no charge to the keeper for the veterinary visit, investigation or testing associated with reporting a suspected case.
APHA is prioritising suspected cases in Scotland and Wales in an effort to ensure test results are returned as quickly as possible.
Farmers encouraged to vaccinate
Livestock keepers are also being encouraged to vaccinate animals now to provide better protection for the remainder of 2026 and into 2027.
Work is continuing to maintain vaccine availability as demand remains high. Vaccine manufacturers and wholesalers are importing additional supplies from Northern Ireland and Europe to help meet demand across Great Britain.
The Welsh Government is also working with partners through the Bluetongue Vaccine Taskforce, which includes representatives from other Great Britain administrations, the Veterinary Medicines Directorate and industry.
Keepers of susceptible animals are being urged to discuss Bluetongue vaccination with their vet and place vaccine orders now to demonstrate demand.
They are also advised to source livestock safely, check the Bluetongue status of incoming animals and understand the signs of the disease so cases can be identified early.
Suspected cases should be reported immediately to APHA on 0300 303 8268.
Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability, Llyr Gruffydd, said:
“Bluetongue continues to spread across Wales and Great Britain, and we are keeping a close watch on the situation.
“Our position on testing and reporting in Wales has not changed. Keepers must continue to report suspected cases to APHA straight away.
“We know farmers and vets are watching developments across Great Britain closely, and we are working closely with the other administrations to monitor the situation, and maintain vaccine availability.”
Chief Veterinary Officer for Wales, Dr Richard Irvine, said:
“Vaccination is the only viable long-term measure to protect livestock against Bluetongue. Vaccine demand is very high at present.
“I urge all keepers of susceptible animals to discuss vaccination with their vet, and to place orders for vaccine now to demonstrate demand for BTV-3 vaccines and access commercially available supplies.
“Before bringing replacement animals onto your holding, check their Bluetongue status and ask if stock have been vaccinated. Know what signs to look out for and make sure you’re not buying more than you bargained for. If you suspect disease, report it to APHA immediately on 0300 303 8268.”
