New bluetongue case in Cumbria as midge risk rises

The bluetongue virus (BTV) is a non-contagious disease spread by midges that affect ruminants, which are animals such as sheep, cattle, goats, deer, camels, llamas, antelope and buffaloes.

It can also be passed on from pregnant animals to their offspring and from the movement of infected animals and animal products such as blood, semen, ova and embryos.

The virus can cause tongue and face swelling, nasal discharge and congestion, ulcers and crusting around the mouth and nose, lameness, difficulty breathing and fever.

It can also cause birth defects, abortions and even death in severe cases.

Meat and milk from infected animals are safe to consume and the disease poses no direct threat to humans.

DEFRA confirmed that a new case of BTV has been discovered in Cumbria on 8 May and two cows tested positive following late term abortions.

There was another case confirmed in Cumbria on 1 May after a calf was stillborn and had brain deformities.

The risk of BTV has increased as the midges that spread it became active again as of 31 March because of rising temperatures.

The midges are generally active between April and November and once infected can spread the disease for all of their life, which typically lasts a month.

To prevent and slow the spread of BTV, livestock owners are advised to house animals in buildings that keep out biting midges, keeping other animals away from potentially infected materials, and vaccinating their livestock.

There are several vaccinations available for different types of BTV.