Bluetongue disease management for livestock keepers 

Bluetongue is a notifiable viral disease that affects ruminants, including sheep, cattle, deer and goats. The virus is spread by an insect vector, specifically biting midges of the Culicoides species. Though often associated with warmer climates, climate change is increasing the risk of disease transmission in the UK by extending the vector season. 

For the 2025–2026 vector season, a total of seven confirmed cases of Bluetongue virus serotype 3 (BTV-3) have been reported in Great Britain, all occurring in England. The risk of disease transmission by infected midges is now considered very high across most of Great Britain, particularly in England. 

Bluetongue control zones in England 

You can view the locations of all current Bluetongue disease control zones in England using the official bluetongue control zone map. This includes details on whether your farm or premises is within a restricted area. 

Recent bluetongue cases and control updates 

25 July 2025 

• 1 ram in Wiltshire tested positive with signs of nasal discharge, facial swelling, and mouth ulcers (no fever). 

24 July 2025 

• 1 cow in Cumbria tested positive after a non-negative pre-movement test. 

• 1 sheep in Oxfordshire showed lameness, sore feet, facial swelling, and ulcers (no fever). 

19 July 2025 

• 1 bovine in Norfolk confirmed positive following a private test. 

1 July 2025 

• The Bluetongue restricted zone was extended to cover all of England. 

• Animal movements within England no longer require a licence or pre-movement test. 

• A licence is still required to freeze germinal products (semen, ova, embryos), with testing at the keeper’s expense. 

Signs of bluetongue in livestock 

Bluetongue symptoms can range from mild to severe, and some animals may show no signs at all. Watch out for: 

• Fever 

• Lesions and redness around the mouth, nose, and eyes 

• Swelling above the hoof 

• Excessive salivation and nasal discharge 

• Impaired wool growth in sheep 

How to report bluetongue 

If you suspect Bluetongue, you must report it to Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) immediately: 

• England: 03000 200 301 

• Wales: 03003 038 268 

• Scotland: Contact your local Field Services Office 

Bluetongue is a notifiable disease. This means failure to report it is against the law. Prompt action helps limit disease transmission and protect animal health. 

Movement of susceptible animals to shows (England) 

When planning to attend shows or move susceptible animals in England, the following guidelines apply: 

Risk assessment 

• Higher-risk areas: South and south-east England are currently at greater risk. 

• Midge control is advised where practical. 

Health and licensing requirements 

• Animal health: Do not move or accept animals showing signs of disease. 

• Licensing: A movement licence is required for transporting animals within or out of restricted zones. 

• Germinal products (semen, embryos) also fall under movement restrictions. 

Showground rules 

• If a restricted zone is declared after a show starts, the event may continue—but no additional susceptible animals can enter. 

• All animals leaving a control zone post-show must meet exit criteria, which may include a pre-movement test and a new movement licence. 

• Shows can continue under disease control measures coordinated by APHA. 

Confirmed or suspected bluetongue at a show 

If bluetongue is suspected: 

• Notify APHA immediately 

• Animals must remain on-site during investigation 

• Events can continue, but no movement is allowed until results are confirmed 

If bluetongue is confirmed: 

• APHA will advise on testing, control zones, and post-show movements 

• Additional disease control measures will be implemented to prevent spread 

Guidance for Wales and Scotland 

Currently, there is no official government guidance for Bluetongue-related movements to or from shows in Wales or Scotland. Livestock keepers should remain vigilant and stay up to date via local government and World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) alerts. 

Free bluetongue testing in high-risk counties 

Livestock owners in Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex, Kent, and East Sussex can apply for free Bluetongue testing when moving animals out of these high-risk zones or selling them to buyers from outside these areas. 

How it works: 

• Apply at least 10 working days before your planned movement or market 

• Animals must be sampled by your vet 5 working days before movement 

• Pre-movement testing ensures compliance and protects herd health 

To apply: 

• Call: 0800 612 5289 (Mon–Fri, 9am–5pm) 

• Email: admin@ukfarmcare.com (Leave a message outside hours) 

Use Herdwatch to record animal movements easily 

Herdwatch simplifies livestock compliance and movement records: 

Register OFF movements: 

• Tap the animals you plan to move in the Herdwatch app 

Register ON movements: 

• Use the smart barcode scanner to scan the passport when animals arrive 

Stay compliant: 

• Herdwatch sends the correct movement data promptly and in the right format 

• You can also report the death of a registered animal quickly and accurately 

Stay informed, stay compliant 

With changing weather patterns, new epizootic diseases like epizootic hemorrhagic disease, and rising vector-borne threats, UK livestock keepers must remain proactive. 

Herdwatch helps you stay compliant with movement and treatment records—giving you peace of mind during the show season and beyond. 

Learn more about Herdwatch for sheep and cattle farmers.