UK Farmers Urged to Tighten BTV-3 Checks as 28-Day Vaccine Window Leaves Sheep Exposed
Updated
Updated · The Scottish Farmer · Aug 13
UK Farmers Urged to Tighten BTV-3 Checks as 28-Day Vaccine Window Leaves Sheep Exposed
3 articles · Updated · The Scottish Farmer · Aug 13
Summary
BTV-3 cases are rising rapidly across the UK, with the south west facing an unprecedented number of reports and a reporting lag suggesting the outbreak is worse than official figures show.
NSA and SVS warned the disease’s likely peak will coincide with breeding and store sheep sales, raising the risk that apparently healthy unvaccinated animals are moved while already infected.
Their guidance urges a buyer-beware approach: report suspected cases, quarantine purchases, monitor animals closely and carry out fertility testing before using rams this season.
Vaccination remains the best protection, but animals sold within 28 days of a jab may still be vulnerable if exposed before immunity develops, while supply concerns mean farmers are being told to plan early with vets.
The outbreak adds to pressure from this season’s high temperatures and strained feed and water supplies, with fully vaccinated animals expected to command stronger demand.