Update on Blue Tongue outbreak in Norfolk/Suffolk: Restricted Zone imposed as cases in cattle confirmed by APHA

[J@son]

APHA: Further cases of bluetongue virus BTV3 in both sheep and cattle have been confirmed in Norfolk and Suffolk. Due to evidence of local transmission, the existing TCZ has been revoked and a Restricted Zone has been put in place around the counties of Norfolk and Suffolk. Keepers of cattle, sheep, camelids and other ruminants must remain vigilant and follow the restrictions on animal and germinal product movements that apply. Check the Bluetongue interactive map: ArcGIS Web Application and GOV.UK to see what steps you must take to prevent and control the disease: Bluetongue: news, information and guidance for livestock keepers. Surveillance will continue, to inform next steps.

 

[deerstalker.308]

APHA: Further cases of bluetongue virus BTV3 in both sheep and cattle have been confirmed in Norfolk and Suffolk. Due to evidence of local transmission, the existing TCZ has been revoked and a Restricted Zone has been put in place around the counties of Norfolk and Suffolk. Keepers of cattle, sheep, camelids and other ruminants must remain vigilant and follow the restrictions on animal and germinal product movements that apply. Check the Bluetongue interactive map: ArcGIS Web Application and GOV.UK to see what steps you must take to prevent and control the disease: Bluetongue: news, information and guidance for livestock keepers. Surveillance will continue, to inform next steps.

Do you know if the restriction zone poses any restrictions on wild deer and or movement of carcasses off land to either home premises or game dealers? No mention on that page that I could see?

 

[Buchan]

Pretty sure no restriction on carcasses as midges won't feed of dead and it can't be passed any other way

 

[J@son]

Pretty sure no restriction on carcasses as midges won't feed of dead and it can't be passed any other way

Agreed. I can't find any official guidance but BT doesn't pose a risk to human health and, as far as I am aware, the virus can only be transmitted via midge bites. It goes without saying that it would be prudent to inspect culled carcasses with a bit of extra attention and report any concerns to APHA without delay. If BT gets into the deer population the consequences could be devastating - for both farmers and stalkers.

 

[Norfolk Horn]

Hopefully things will cool down soon so stop the midge from being active.