First case of livestock virus Bluetongue identified in Wales

The first cases of the Bluetongue (BTV -3) virus have been detected in Wales this year, just a week after restrictions were eased.

The virus was discovered in cattle at two premises - one in Presteigne, Powys and another in Chepstow, Monmouthshire.

The discovery follows the easing of restrictions over the summer which prevented the movement of livestock to Wales from a restricted zone without a negative test.

From September 21, the Welsh Government allowed all animals who had been vaccinated against the virus to enter Wales. All unvaccinated livestock still need a test before they can enter Wales.

Due to cases discovered earlier this year, the UK Government declared England a restricted zone. The cases this week are the first to be discovered in Wales this year.

The Welsh Government eased restrictions as temperatures were expected to be low enough to "reduce virus transmission by midges."

Bluetongue is primarily transmitted by midges as well as by infected male animals during breeding.

A Welsh Government spokesperson said: “We urge livestock keepers to continue to be vigilant and follow stringent biosecurity measures - including to practice safe sourcing of livestock.

“Equally, we encourage livestock keepers to talk with their vet about Bluetongue, including vaccination, and to report any suspect cases to APHA.”