Bluetongue cases jump to 493 in UK in current season
The UK has recorded 493 cases of bluetongue so far this season, according to the latest figures from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra).
The first case of bluetongue virus serotype 3 (BTV-3) in the current season was confirmed on July 10.
According to the latest update, the figures currently show there are:
- 473 cases in England;
- 15 cases in Wales;
- 5 cases in Scotland;
- 0 cases in Northern Ireland.
There have been no cases of bluetongue serotype 8 (BTV-8) in the current bluetongue season.
August 18
A further 19 new cases of BTV-3 were confirmed in England on August 18, 2026.
All were tested following reports of suspicious clinical signs.
Of these, 15 cases involved sheep and four involved cattle.
All cases presented with clinical signs typical of those seen in recent cases.
One new case of BTV-3 in cattle was confirmed in Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland on August 18.
The animals were tested as part of epidemiological investigations linked to an earlier case.
There were no clinical signs of bluetongue.
NFU Scotland
Separately, the National Farmers Union (NFU) Scotland, has issued an update on bluetongue to its members.
NFU Scotland said: “Following confirmation of bluetongue virus 3 (BTV-3) in Scotland, testing has now identified a further positive case in the same vicinity as the existing cases.
“There are currently five animals testing positive for BTV-3 across four holdings, all within 2km of each other.
“More than 100 animals have now been tested within the area, with all other results coming back negative.”
The union said that while this is encouraging, it remains too early to determine the full extent of BTV-3 in Scotland.
It said: “The situation remains fluid, and it is likely to be another week or so before we have a clearer picture of whether the disease is circulating.
“Initial indications suggest incidence remains low, but continued surveillance and testing will be important.
“Vaccination remains the best way for livestock keepers to protect susceptible animals.
"We strongly encourage keepers to speak to their vet about vaccination, with those in the south of Scotland taking particular priority.”
NFU Scotland added that it is aware that availability of vaccine is currently a concern for some producers.
It said: “The Scottish government is engaging with vaccine manufacturers over potential additional supplies, and NFU Scotland is working to establish the level of demand from livestock keepers across the country.
“Where producers want to vaccinate, it is important that every effort is made to ensure sufficient vaccine is available.”
The Scottish government has confirmed that it does not intend to introduce a disease control zone at this point, as it currently considers prevalence to be low.
NFU Scotland said is seeking further information from the Scottish government on its assessment of the situation, including the circumstances in which a control zone or additional movement controls may become necessary.
