Diseases
Blue tongue

Bluetongue is a disease of ruminants, including sheep, cattle, deer, camels and goats. It is transmitted by the movement of midges or by movements of infected animals if they are subsequently bitten by midges. It does not affect humans

Blue tongue

Since the first outbreak in northern Europe in August 2006, there have been several thousand cases confirmed in sheep and cattle in the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, Luxembourg and France. Imports of Bluetongue susceptible animals to the UK from affected areas have been stopped.

This is the first time Bluetongue virus has been recorded in the UK. Defra has now identified a Bluetongue Temporary Area within which the movement of animals is strictly controlled.

Bluetongue does not affect humans. People who have visited the affected premises do not need to be concerned that there is any risk to their health. If visiting farms where animals can be touched or stroked people should always wash their hands after contact with the animals.

Bluetongue has no public health implications and does not affect humans. Under current circumstances there are no implications for the food chain.

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