NSA issues warning as bluetongue cases continue to expand rapidly

The National Sheep Association (NSA) is urging sheep farmers against complacency following the surge in reported bluetongue cases and to follow the lead of the growing numbers of farmers speaking to their vets about assessing the risks of bluetongue (BTV-3) on their farms and taking action to protect animals.

NSA Chief Executive Phil Stocker comments: “This will inevitably lead to a conversation about vaccination as this is the only proven way of protecting stock on the farm and protecting the wider industry as we approach a time when movements of breeding stock and store lambs will be increasing.  

"The number of reported cases shot up last week to over 590, from just 115 the previous week. The majority are being seen in the south west of England – clearly a serious hot spot for this midge borne virus. As you would expect, calls on stocks of vaccines are increasing and stocks will be reducing but we are assured that vaccine manufacturers are doing what they can to ensure demand can be met.  

"I've heard some farmers question if it is worth vaccinating now, given that it takes 28 days for full immunity to be gained, but a level of protection is likely to be reached earlier, particularly if stock were vaccinated last season. Additionally, we have several months of midge activity ahead of us and it is highly advisable that breeding males and females are vaccinated ahead of mating. I could also see a situation where farmers bringing in new stock will want to understand their vaccination status and I’d encourage sellers of breeders to consider the benefits of pre-sale vaccination. This is just basic advice when administering any vaccine and nothing specific to BTV vaccines, there is nothing to suggest these vaccines impair fertility beyond a short period when body temperature will naturally rise”.

NSA Policy Manager Michael Priestley adds: “We urge livestock keepers to follow good practice when treating and vaccinating animals at risk, to minimise onward transmission in your flock.

“The Sheep Veterinary Society has noted that the virus can be transmitted via used needles, so please do take care when vaccinating your stock.”

As always, the NSA would encourage all sheep farmers to speak with their vets to determine the best course of action. 

NSA also encourages the reporting of any new cases on previously unaffected farms to be reported so that evidence and data can be captured, and that records be kept on farms of numbers of cases, levels of severity, mortality and recovery rates. This data may be helpful in due course to assess the impact and inform future actions.