Health Officials Warn Animal Owners Against Bluetongue Virus Outbreak in the UK

The virus spreads through midges and it can survive in warmer temperatures. Therefore, health experts have advised animal owners to monitor their livestock closely and also vaccinate them against the disease. Previous outbreaks in France have been successfully overcome by vaccinating the animals.

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There is a rapid, accurate test and an effective vaccine for the strain of bluetongue virus currently in France. British farmers will have to make a commercial decision on whether to vaccinate their livestock.

Professor John Blackwell, from the British Veterinary Association, said, "We strongly encourage all farmers to closely monitor their stock for bluetongue symptoms - particularly sheep which are most susceptible to the disease - including eye and nasal discharge, drooling, swelling around the head or mouth, lethargy and lameness."

Source: Medindia