TWO cases of bluetongue were discovered in the south west earlier this month - but both animals have been culled and so there are no current restrictions in place. 

One of the cases of BTV-3 was in Bath and North East Somerset, where the animal was known to have moved to the premises from an area which is now infected with the disease. This animal was moved before the restrictions were put in place. 

Another case was found in an animal imported into Devon. All other animals tested negative. 

Both animals were culled and further testing will take place on both premises. 

These cases were announced on the Government website on September 21 2024. Currently, the number of bluetongue cases in the UK stands at 98. 

The current restricted zones are as follows: Lincolnshire, Cambridgeshire, Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire, Greater London, Surrey, and West Sussex.

Farmers and livestock owners within the restricted zone must adhere to movement restrictions for animals and germinal products. Movement of susceptible animals out of the zone is prohibited without a specific licence, though a general licence is available for transporting animals to designated abattoirs.

Movements within the restricted zone are still allowed.

READ MORE: Bluetongue virus outbreak hits 95 farms in England

Deputy UK chief veterinary officer Ele Brown said: "As the number of bluetongue cases continues to rise in England and northern Europe, we are taking further action to extend the restriction zone to mitigate the spread of the disease.

"Whilst we appreciate restrictions have an impact, it’s vital all farmers and keepers within bluetongue control zones adhere to the restrictions and only move animals when it’s absolutely essential to prevent the disease spreading to their herds.

"We are committed to working with everyone affected and urge people to report livestock they suspect have the disease. We will continue to keep control zones under review."

In response to the worsening situation, the government has authorised the use of three bluetongue vaccines to curb the outbreak. These suppressive vaccines aim to reduce clinical symptoms but do not fully prevent infection.

While bluetongue poses no risk to humans or food safety, outbreaks can lead to prolonged restrictions on animal movements and trade.