The UK has seen cases of the deadly Bluetongue virus steadily increase this year, with dozens of new cases reported.

Bluetongue virus is an insect-borne viral disease that affects sheep, cattle, goats, deer and camelids such as llamas and alpacas. Whilst sheep are more likely to show the most severe and obvious signs of the illness, cattle and other ruminants can often carry the disease and show little or no symptoms, making detection difficult.

The virus is adding mounting economic pressure, along with the difficult weather conditions that farmers have had to contend with this year.

While Bluetongue virus can be fatal to animals, it does not affect humans. Clinical signs in infected animals include fever, lameness, facial swelling, mouth ulcers, nasal discharge, foetal deformities and stillbirths. However, food safety remains unaffected, and meat and milk from infected animals are safe for human consumption.

The strain of Bluetongue seen in the UK - Bluetongue Serotype 3 (BTV-3) - was first detected in England in November 2023. This year's unprecedented heat has created highly favourable conditions for the virus to spread, as soaring temperatures and heatwaves allow it to develop more quickly in the midges that carry it.

Vaccinations

There are a number of ways to reduce the spread of the virus, such as:
Sourcing livestock responsibly

Keeping a close eye on livestock and remaining vigilant for the signs and symptoms of the virus, whilst remembering that not all animals will show them

Keeping animals housed when midges are most prevalent, such as at dawn and dusk

Ensuring high levels of hygiene on your premises

Ensuring that working dogs and pets are not allowed access to infected animals

Ensuring all livestock are correctly registered and traceable


The most effective approach remains a vaccination programme; however, this can be costly for farmers with large flocks or herds. Typical costs vary by livestock species, as dosing schedules differ. For example, sheep require a single 1ml dose, costing between £2.50 and £3.50 per dose, while cattle require double the dose, dramatically increasing the cost per animal. The spread of the disease is also taking its toll on vaccine availability, with many vets reporting shortages.

At the time of writing, DEFRA has confirmed 456 cases of Bluetongue Serotype 3 (BTV-3) across the UK for the 2026/27 season. So far, there have been 439 cases in England, with the South West bearing the brunt, and Devon, Cornwall and Somerset the hardest-hit counties. Wales has seen 13 reported cases and Scotland 4. As of August 2026, over 2200 additional suspicious cases remain under investigation, as the high midge count and warm weather continue to drive transmission. Cases of the virus in the UK are surging much faster this year than last, with confirmed cases already exceeding the total reported during the entire 2025/2026 season.




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