Blue Tongue Disease (BTD) is a serious notifiable viral disease that primarily affects sheep but can also infect other ruminants like cattle, deer, and goats. While it is not transmissible to humans, an outbreak in the UK could cause significant disruption to farming operations due to animal movement restrictions, trade limitations, and economic losses.
With recent concerns about Blue Tongue Virus (BTV) potentially reaching the UK, farmers must be prepared, vigilant, and proactive in maintaining biosecurity on their farms.
What is Blue Tongue Disease?
Blue Tongue Disease is caused by the Blue Tongue Virus (BTV), which is transmitted by infected midges (Culicoides species). It is not spread directly between animals, making vector control critical to prevention.
The disease affects the blood vessels in ruminants, causing symptoms like:
- Swollen tongues (hence the name)
- Fever
- Salivation
- Nasal discharge
- Lameness
- Facial swelling
- Death in severe cases
Different serotypes of BTV exist, and outbreaks can vary in severity depending on the serotype and species infected.
How to Spot Blue Tongue in Livestock
Early detection is vital to containing a potential outbreak. Here’s how to identify signs of Blue Tongue in your animals, especially sheep, who are most severely affected:
In Sheep
- Fever and lethargy
- Swelling of the face, lips, and tongue
- Bluish or purple tongue (not always present, but a classic sign)
- Excessive salivation or frothing at the mouth
- Nasal discharge
- Difficulty breathing
- Lameness due to inflammation in the hooves
- Skin lesions or crusting around the nose and mouth
- Sudden death, particularly in severe cases or young animals
In Cattle
- Often mild or no symptoms, but may include:
- Fever
- Red or crusty nose
- Drooling
- Swollen or painful teats
- Reduced milk yield
In Wild Ruminants (Deer, etc.)
- Often go unnoticed but can act as virus carriers.
- May show signs similar to sheep in advanced stages.
If you observe any of these signs, contact your vet or the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) immediately. Delays in reporting can lead to wider spread and tougher restrictions.
APHA Contact: 03000 200 301
Animal Movement Restrictions in the UK (If Blue Tongue is Detected)
If Blue Tongue is confirmed in the UK, Defra and APHA will enforce strict animal movement restrictions to control the spread. Here’s what to expect:
Control Zones Will Be Set Up
Protection Zone (PZ): 20 km radius around the outbreak.
Surveillance Zone (SZ): Extends 50–100 km beyond the PZ.
Movement of animals and animal products from these zones will be tightly controlled or prohibited without testing or special licenses.
Live Animal Exports Halted
Movement of susceptible animals to the EU or other countries will be suspended unless specific testing and certification requirements are met.
Testing and Licensing
Any movement within or out of zones must be pre-approved and may require animals to test negative for BTV.
Movements may also be subject to vector protection measures (e.g., insecticides or transport at night).
Top 5 Frequently Asked Questions About Blue Tongue Disease
Can Blue Tongue affect humans?
No. Blue Tongue is not a zoonotic disease—it cannot infect humans or affect food safety.
How is Blue Tongue transmitted?
Blue Tongue is spread only by biting midges, not by direct contact between animals.
Can Blue Tongue be prevented by vaccination?
Yes. Vaccines are available, but their use depends on the specific BTV serotype present. Vaccination may be advised or mandated during outbreaks.
What animals are at risk?
Sheep are most severely affected.
Cattle and goats often show mild or no symptoms but can still carry and spread the virus.
Deer and wild ruminants are also susceptible.
What should I do if I suspect Blue Tongue?
Immediately report suspected cases to APHA. Blue Tongue is a notifiable disease in the UK.
APHA Contact: 03000 200 301
The Importance of Farm Biosecurity
Good biosecurity practices are the first line of defence against the spread of infectious diseases like Blue Tongue. Here’s how to protect your farm:
Vector Control
Use insecticides and repellents on livestock.
Keep animals indoors during peak midge activity (dawn and dusk).
Eliminate standing water and manure that attract midges.
Animal Movement Records
Keep detailed records of livestock movements.
Quarantine new or returning animals before introducing them to the herd.
Monitor and Report Symptoms
Train staff to identify early signs of illness.
Report any suspicion to a vet or APHA immediately.
Limit Unnecessary Visitors
Disinfect equipment and clothing for visitors.
Restrict access to animal housing areas.
Vaccinate if Advised
Follow government guidelines on vaccination protocols when BTV is circulating in or near the UK.
Final Thoughts
Blue Tongue Disease poses a real threat to UK livestock farming if introduced. Being proactive with biosecurity, staying informed about Defra updates, and preparing for possible movement restrictions are essential to protect your animals and business.
Staying alert, especially during warm seasons when midges are most active, can help contain any threat early and prevent larger outbreaks.
For the latest information, always refer to Gov.uk – Blue Tongue Disease or your local APHA office.
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