A Wales-wide bluetongue restricted zone will come into force during the next fortnight after outbreaks were confirmed across the country including four in Powys.
Bluetongue policy in Wales will now be brought into line with England after 11 cases were detected.
In Powys, there have been confirmed cases of the insect-borne viral disease in Presteigne, Llangammarch Wells and Gladestry.
The Welsh Government shared on Wednesday (October 29) that a further case had been identified near Brecon.
The change in policy will come into force on Monday, November 10, and will allow the free movement of livestock between England and Wales.
Previously animals were banned from crossing without a negative bluetongue test.
Farmers reported huge difficulties associated with the policy as bluetongue testing could cost as much as £70 an animal – meaning it would cost thousands for some flocks or herd to cross the border.
The Welsh Government said the policy had “delayed bluetongue incursion from the all-England restricted zone until the time of year when the impact and spread of the disease is limited” and “provided farmers with essential time to vaccinate their livestock and prepare for the emergence of the disease in Wales”.
The Government added that “given that bluetongue has reached Wales, and 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, the declaration of an all-Wales restricted zone will commence on that date”.
Deputy First Minister, Huw Irranca-Davies said: “The success of our policy to date is attributable 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.
“I appreciate the restrictions on livestock movements and the introduction of the temporary control zone (TCZ), have been disruptive for livestock keepers and wider industry.
“I have met with the livestock and veterinary sectors regularly, in roundtable meetings, and listened to feedback on the challenges posed by both the restrictions on livestock movements between England and Wales and the potential animal health and welfare impacts of bluetongue.
“Following those discussions, and in line with my commitment to review our position based on new and emerging evidence, I have considered our approach to bluetongue policy in Wales for the remainder of 2025 and beyond.”
The Welsh Government is still encouraging farmers to vaccinate their animals and remain ‘vigilant’.
Wales’ Chief Veterinary Officer, Richard Irvine, said: “We continue to urge animal keepers to source stock responsibly, remain vigilant for the signs of Bluetongue, and to report any suspect cases to the APHA immediately.
“Vaccination remains the best way to protect livestock and livelihoods from the worst impacts of Bluetongue, which can include both illness of affected livestock and longer-term effects on fertility and productivity. It is more important than ever to be prepared.
“With the full support of industry, I strongly encourage animal keepers to discuss the role and timing of Bluetongue vaccination of their herds and flocks with their vets, particularly before the next active transmission period for the disease, in spring 2026.”
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