Emergency Approval of Bluetongue Vaccines Amid Rising Case Numbers

Defra has initiated the emergency deployment of three available vaccines against bluetongue BTV-3, as the incidence of the virus surges across England.

These vaccines are now accessible to farmers of cattle and sheep in high-risk regions, including Norfolk, Suffolk, and Essex. Additionally, the vaccines will be authorized for usage in Kent and West Sussex.

Phil Stocker, the chief executive of the National Sheep Association (NSA), expressed support for this decision but cautioned that it should not be viewed as a comprehensive solution.

“Insights from countries like Holland and Belgium indicate that these vaccines effectively alleviate clinical symptoms and reduce mortality rates in sheep,” he mentioned.

“However, it is important to acknowledge that while the vaccines may reduce the virus spread, they do not eliminate it entirely.”

Neil Shand, chief executive of the National Beef Association, stated: “I strongly urge farmers, particularly those with high-value livestock, to consult with their veterinarians and prioritize vaccinating their herds.”

“Although the vaccine is not a panacea, it provides a protective measure and can expedite recovery, as evidenced by experiences observed on the Continent.”

Farmers interested in obtaining the vaccine should contact their vets, as it is available only through veterinary prescriptions.

Rising Case Numbers

As of September 4th, there were 41 confirmed positive cases across 13 different locations, primarily in Norfolk, Essex, and Suffolk.

Paul Tompkins, chairman of the NFU Dairy Board, remarked, “Having witnessed the catastrophic effects of the bluetongue virus on sheep death rates and dairy cow milk production, the increasing number of clinical cases in eastern England is extremely alarming.”

While suspected cases have emerged in other areas of England, none have yet been confirmed positive.

“This indicates that farmers are vigilant about monitoring their animals for symptoms and reporting any concerns,” said Mr. Stocker.

Defra has established a restricted zone (RZ) that encompasses Norfolk, Suffolk, and Essex.

Within this zone, farmers are permitted to move animals only to designated abattoirs for slaughter or via a specific license that mandates pre- and post-movement blood testing for live animal transfers out of the RZ.

Farmers can transfer animals between farms under a general license, but Defra advises that stock should only be moved when absolutely necessary.

Restrictions also extend to germinal products (such as semen or embryos) within the restricted zone.

Market Implications

It remains uncertain how much disruption BTV-3 will cause in the agricultural marketplace.

The finished lamb supply chain may remain relatively stable since farmers can still transport finished lambs to designated abattoirs outside the RZ.

Nonetheless, the NSA highlights ongoing concerns regarding the readiness of sheep farmers to invest in high-value breeding stock, and there are still uncertainties about transferring store lambs both within and beyond the RZ.

“To move store lambs outside the RZ, farmers will need a specific license that includes pre- and post-movement blood tests,” Mr. Stocker noted.

Although Defra will cover the costs associated with blood testing laboratories, farmers are responsible for paying for their veterinarians to take blood samples and send them.

Livestock owners are advised to keep a close watch on their animals for any signs of bluetongue, which may include fever, inflammation of mucous membranes, lameness, and decreased productivity.

Any suspected cases should be reported immediately to the relevant authorities at 03000 200 301 in England, 03003 038 268 in Wales, or through your local Field Services Office in Scotland.