Advice for those working with ruminants
Bluetongue is a notifiable insect-borne viral disease that affects all ruminants, such as cattle, goat, deer and, in particular, sheep. It cannot be spread directly between animals and relies on the midge for transmission. The disease does not affect humans and there are no public health or food safety issues.
We are continuing to closely monitor the situation on the European continent and in recognition of the potential risk to the UK we have introduced heightened surveillance measures. This leaflet outlines your role in helping to keep this disease out of Scotland.
How can you help?
Be vigilant! The clinical signs of bluetongue are outlined below - please ensure that you are familiar with these. If you suspect the presence of the disease, the local Animal Health office should be contacted immediately. All imported ruminant livestock must be tested for bluetongue.
Clinical signs in sheep
- Fever.
- Swelling of the head and neck.
- Inflammation and ulceration of the mucous membrane of the mouth, nose and eyelids.
- Lameness.
- Muscle degeneration and blood/serum leaking from blood vessels into surrounding tissue.
- Haemorrhages in the skin and other tissues.
- Respiratory signs such as froth in the lungs and an inability to swallow.
- High mortality rate.
- Discolouration and swelling of the tongue (rare; see picture above).
Clinical signs in cattle
Although Bluetongue usually causes no apparent illness in cattle or goats, cattle are displaying clinical signs during the current outbreak in Northern Europe.
- Nasal discharge.
- Swelling and ulceration of the mouth.
- Swollen teats.
Local animal health offices
Further information
http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Agriculture/animal-welfare/Diseases/SpecificDisease/bluetongue/bluetonguecurrent
www.defra.gov.uk/animalh/diseases/notifiable/bluetongue/index.htm