The Animal and Plant Health Agency has confirmed that a case of bluetongue virus has been identified on the Isle of Wight and, as a result, the Island has been placed into a restriction zone.
It was last Thursday that a case was identified and confirmed within a cow following a report of suspect clinical signs to the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) and the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA). It has not been disclosed where this infected animal was located.
As a result of the positive test, the Isle of Wight is now subject to strict conditions to help prevent the spread of the virus. It means that no animal can be taken off Island and moved out of the restricted zone without permission, and no animal can be moved around the Island if it is showing signs of the virus. However, animals can still be taken to slaughter but they must be slaughtered within 24 hours of arrival.
Any person who contravenes the restrictions shall commit a criminal offence and could face up to 3 months behind bars.
The Bluetongue virus affects sheep, cattle, deer, goats, llamas and alpacas so will be of a worry to a variety of livestock owners on the Isle of Wight. Rarely, bluetongue can also affect dogs and other carnivores if they eat infected material but it does not affect people or food safety.
Island Echo understands that the APHA will be visiting the Island between 13th-20th November.
If you suspect bluetongue, you must report it immediately by calling 03000 200 301. Bluetongue is a notifiable disease – this means if you do not report it, you’re breaking the law.
