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Disease transmission

Delayed Bluetongue Incursion in Wales: Key Takeaways and Statistics

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

The Welsh Government's Bluetongue control policy, supported by regular evidence-based updates, has successfully delayed the Bluetongue incursion from the all-England Restricted Zone until the time of year when the impact and spread of the disease is limited. This policy has provided essential time for farmers to vaccinate their livestock and prepare for the emergence of the disease in Wales. The success of this policy is attributed to the hard work of delivery partners, including the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) and The Pirbright Institute, as well as the co-operation and goodwill of the livestock sector.

Key Takeaways:

  • As of the current date, only 11 cases of Bluetongue have been confirmed in Wales, with 4 in Powys and 7 in Monmouthshire.
  • The Welsh Government has declared an all-Wales Restricted Zone (RZ) commencing on 10 November, which will have the following effects:

+ Revocation of the Temporary Control Zone (TCZ)

+ Removal of premises-level restrictions

+ No further culling or restrictions

+ Free movement of livestock between England and Wales

+ Ongoing surveillance and future preparedness for new Bluetongue serotypes

+ Continued restrictions on germinal products

+ Changes for livestock movements to Scotland

  • Senior industry representatives provided unanimous support for an all-Wales Restricted Zone during a roundtable meeting on 27 October.
  • Vaccination remains the best way to protect livestock and livelihoods from the worst impacts of the disease.
  • The Welsh Government continues to urge animal keepers to source stock responsibly, remain vigilant for the signs of Bluetongue, and report any suspect cases to the APHA immediately.
  • The livestock and veterinary sectors are crucial to minimising the long-term impact of Bluetongue in Wales.

Statistics:

  • 11 cases of Bluetongue have been confirmed in Wales (4 in Powys and 7 in Monmouthshire)
  • The Welsh Government has declared an all-Wales Restricted Zone (RZ) commencing on 10 November
  • The RZ will have the following effects:

+ Revocation of the TCZ

+ Removal of premises-level restrictions

+ No further culling or restrictions

+ Free movement of livestock between England and Wales

  • Only 10 November is unlikely for midge-borne transmission of Bluetongue virus to occur in Wales
  • Historic temperature data and modelling work indicates it is very unlikely for midge-borne transmission of bluetongue virus to occur after 10 November in Wales

Sources:

  • The Welsh Government's official statement on Bluetongue control policy
  • The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA)
  • The Pirbright Institute
  • Albawaba (Albawaba.com) article, "Welsh Government declares all-Wales Restricted Zone for Bluetongue control" (2022)

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