Bluetongue found in six cattle

Bluetongue is a non-contagious virus spread by a species of midge

Six imported cattle and a sheep have tested positive for Bluetongue, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has said.

The animals, which came from France, were infected with the BTV8 strain. A vaccination program against the strain started earlier this year.

The cattle were taken to Dorset and the sheep went to Gloucestershire.

Defra said the discovery demonstrated its "rigorous" post-import testing was working.

Defra added: "We continue to test all susceptible animals imported to UK from continental Europe, for all strains of Bluetongue.

"The threat from Bluetongue is present and real, as shown by recent import cases.

"Vaccination as a preventive measure is therefore more important than ever."

Bluetongue is a non-contagious virus spread by a species of midge and is most commonly seen in the late summer and autumn.

The six infected cattle are undergoing treatment.