Government figures indicate 92 positive bluetongue cases were confirmed in England by the end of July this year. The majority of these cases have been identified in cows and sheep, primarily in south-west England.
Cheryl Cottle-Hunkin, a farmer in Torridge, Devon, described feeling "so alone" when her sheep became ill with suspected bluetongue, initially attributing the animals' lethargy to a heatwave. She believes she has lost eight animals to the virus, which is spread by biting midges.
The Animal and Plant Health Agency has urged livestock owners to remain vigilant, report any suspected cases, and vaccinate their animals. Defra states the virus affects sheep, cattle, deer, goats, llamas, and alpacas, but does not affect people or food safety. Outbreaks can lead to prolonged animal movement and trade restrictions.
Symptoms in sheep can include ulcers or sores in the mouth and nose, discharge from eyes or nose, and swelling of the lips, tongue, head, and neck. For cows, symptoms include lethargy, crusty erosions around the nostrils and muzzle, redness of the mouth, eyes, nose, milk drop, and abortions.