Cows test positive for bluetongue

It is a farmer's responsibility to vaccinate against bluetongue

Two cows have tested positive for bluetongue in north Wales.

The two imported cattle were found to have type 8 of the virus with further investigations taking place at premises near Ruthin in Denbighshire.

They were part of a group of seven animals imported from the Limoges area of France and detected as a result of post-import testing.

Farmers are being urged to vaccinate their stock against the disease by Wales' Chief Veterinary Officer.

Another cow is under investigation at the same site and restrictions have been imposed on it pending further investigations and a veterinary risk assessment.

Earlier this month a bluetongue protection zone was extended to cover the whole of Wales after cases of the disease were found in Devon.

My message continues to be - vaccinate now Dr Christianne Glossop

September is the highest risk period for the disease which is spread by midges and can be fatal to cows and sheep.

Under European livestock rules, once an area has been designated a protected zone vaccinations can be issued.

Chief Veterinary Officer Dr Christianne Glossop said: "Vaccination is the only protection against Bluetongue in these circumstances.

"As I said when we extended the protection zone, animals can now come into Wales from areas which have been and are affected by bluetongue, and you must vaccinate to protect your stock.

"Vaccine has been made available to farmers across the whole of Wales.

"The level of uptake to date has been disappointingly low and I would urge all farmers to vaccinate now.

"Today's developments demonstrate the threat from bluetongue.

"My message continues to be - vaccinate now."