September 11, 2026 - 201 views
North Wales farmers are being urged to speak to their vets about vaccination as the number of confirmed bluetongue cases in Wales passes 100.
The disease, which affects cattle, sheep and other susceptible ruminants, continues to spread across Wales and Great Britain. Farmers and livestock keepers are being reminded that the current testing and reporting arrangements in Wales remain unchanged.
For farmers in North Wales, the advice is particularly relevant as livestock movements between farms and across the border can be an important consideration when buying or bringing animals onto a holding.
Keepers must report any suspected case of bluetongue to the Animal and Plant Health Agency immediately on 0300 303 8268.
If the disease cannot be ruled out during an initial telephone assessment, an APHA Veterinary Inspector will visit the farm to investigate and decide whether laboratory testing is needed.
The Welsh Government is currently paying for the veterinary investigation and testing associated with a reported suspicion. Up to three samples per farm can be taken for testing, meaning there is currently no charge to the keeper for those elements of the investigation.
APHA is prioritising suspected cases in Wales and Scotland to help ensure results are returned as quickly as possible.
Farmers are also being encouraged to consider vaccination now, with the aim of providing better protection through the remainder of 2026 and into 2027.
The Welsh Government says demand for bluetongue vaccines is currently high, with manufacturers and wholesalers importing additional supplies from Northern Ireland and Europe.
Farmers are being encouraged to place vaccine orders now and discuss the options with their vet.
Bluetongue is spread primarily by biting midges. Infection can cause signs including fever, swelling around the head and mouth, drooling, nasal discharge and breathing difficulties. In sheep, swelling of the face and tongue can occur, while affected animals may become lame or reluctant to move.
However, some infected animals may show few or no obvious signs, which makes monitoring and reporting important.
Farmers buying replacement stock are being advised to check the bluetongue status of animals before bringing them onto their holding and to ask whether they have been vaccinated.
The Welsh Government's Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, Llyr Gruffydd, said the disease continued to spread across Wales and Great Britain and that the situation was being closely monitored.
Wales' Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr Richard Irvine, said vaccination remained the most effective long-term way of protecting livestock against bluetongue.
He urged keepers of susceptible animals to discuss vaccination with their vet, place orders and make use of commercially available supplies.
The advice to farmers is to remain vigilant, particularly when moving livestock, know the signs of bluetongue and report any suspicion immediately.
More information and advice is available through the Welsh Government's bluetongue guidance and from private veterinary practices.
