Following the identification of bluetongue virus in imported cattle in Scotland and England, the Chief Veterinary Officer for Wales has reminded Welsh farmers of the risks of the disease.
This was published under the 2016 to 2021 administration of the Welsh Government
The virus has been detected in post import checks in a number of cattle imported from France.
The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) successfully picked up the infected animals through the post-import testing regime.
Action is being taken to ensure there is no spread of the disease. APHA is working closely with the livestock keepers affected to ensure that swift action is taken to prevent spread of the disease, with movement restrictions at affected premises, targeted surveillance and the humane culling of animals where necessary.
Chief Veterinary Officer for Wales, Christianne Glossop said:
“Following the identification of bluetongue virus in imported cattle I’d like to remind Welsh farmers to be vigilant for signs of the disease.
“Bluetongue does not pose a threat to human health or food safety, but can have a severe impact on affected farms. I’d ask farmers to consider very carefully the risks which come with bringing animals from disease-affected areas into their herds.
“It is encouraging the robust disease surveillance procedures that we have in place in the UK have worked but the identification offers a timely reminder to farmers for the need to remain vigilant.”