Limiting Movement of Farm Animals as Cases of Disease Rise
A countywide restriction on the movement of farm animals has been enforced across Kent following a surge in bluetongue cases, an infectious viral disease that is currently spreading among wildlife.
The UK Chief Veterinary Officer, Christine Middlemiss, announced additional measures to combat the spread of the disease, which has seen 70 confirmed cases across the UK. Bluetongue, which primarily affects cattle, sheep, goats, and deer, can cause severe symptoms such as infertility and respiratory issues. However, the disease poses no risk to humans or food safety.
The outbreak was first detected in November, when five cows from two premises in Canterbury tested positive for the virus. By December, the virus had spread to the Sandwich Bay area, where three more cows were confirmed to have bluetongue. A temporary control zone (TCZ) was initially established, covering the area from Canterbury to Thanet and Dover, to prevent further transmission.
In response to the increasing number of cases, a larger restricted zone has now been introduced, encompassing the entire county of Kent and extending into parts of neighbouring East Sussex.
New Restrictions on Animal Movement
The newly imposed rules mean that susceptible animals such as cattle, sheep, goats, and deer cannot be moved out of the restricted zone without a specific licence. Animal keepers within the zone are also required to adhere to strict guidelines regarding the movement of their livestock. Farmers are being reminded that any animals imported from affected regions must be accompanied by the necessary paperwork, proving they meet the vaccination and health conditions required to lower the risk of further disease transmission.
Jenny Stewart, Chief Executive of the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), emphasized the importance of vigilance during this period. “Since the first BTV-3 case for this season was detected last month, case numbers have continued to rise. I want to remind keepers of the importance of monitoring their livestock and taking up free testing where necessary,” she said.
Government Measures and Vaccine Use
In response to the escalating situation, the government has confirmed that it will permit the use of unauthorised vaccines against bluetongue in a bid to curb the outbreak. Movements within the restriction zone will still be permitted, and a general licence has been issued allowing animals to be moved to designated abattoirs, ensuring the food chain remains unaffected.
The virus is spread through midges, which are often carried across from mainland Europe during warm weather conditions. As the disease continues to spread, the authorities are urging farmers to remain cautious and comply with all restrictions and testing protocols to safeguard the health of their livestock.
The measures aim to control the disease’s spread and protect the livelihoods of farmers across Kent and neighbouring regions.