Guidance
Bluetongue is a notifiable midge-borne viral disease which can infect all ruminants, such as cattle, goat, deer, sheep, and camelids such as llama's and alpacas. Bluetongue is different from many other diseases in that disease is confirmed as being present in a country, only when there is evidence of the virus circulating in the midge population, rather than when a single infected animal is identified.
As bluetongue is only transmitted via an insect vector (midge) additional cleaning and disinfection is not required, other than that routinely used as protection against infection from other diseases. However there are other biosecurity precautions that you can take:
- Be vigilant. Be aware of the clinical signs of bluetongue and inspect your livestock regularly. If you suspect the presence of the disease, contact your local Animal Health Office immediately.
- Be cautious when sourcing replacement livestock. Where possible, avoid importing livestock either originating in or transiting bluetongue Restricted Zones. Where this is not possible, ensure that livestock are symptom free before arriving, find out if they have been vaccinated and protected with insecticide whilst travelling.
Leaflets
Advice for those working with ruminants and camelids