Defra preparing for 'possible' increase in bluetongue cases during the Spring

Gordon Hickman, head of exotic disease control policy at Defra, said there could be a 'chance' of a vaccine for bluetongue by the Autumn but it would 'not be soon enough' for the current Spring and Summer season

Chris Brayford
clock • 3 min read
Defra has confirmed there could be an increase in bluetongue with warmer temperatures on the horizon during the Spring and Summer months
Image:

Defra has confirmed there could be an increase in bluetongue with warmer temperatures on the horizon during the Spring and Summer months

The Government has warned there could be an increase in bluetongue cases later this year due to a growth of biting midge activity in warmer weather. Defra confirmed it is planning for a possible increase...

To continue reading...

Already a member? Login for full access.

Login

New to Farmers Guardian? Register for 1 free article per week or become a member for unlimited access to essential farming news and insights.

article-img-580x358

 

More on Livestock

OPINION: Half the Price, Twice the Warning. A lesson learnt from New Zealand is that we must value the Marts.

OPINION: Half the Price, Twice the Warning. A lesson learnt from New Zealand is that we must value the Marts.

Livestock specialist Ellie Layton shares her thoughts on why farmers should value livestock marts in a post-subsidy world.

clock 01 May 2026 • 3 min read
British Pig and Poultry Fair set to provide producers with confidence

British Pig and Poultry Fair set to provide producers with confidence

The biennial British Pig and Poultry Fair will return to Birmingham this month and is set to provide visitors with fresh ideas and the latest research

clock 30 April 2026 • 3 min read
OPINION: I feel 'silly season' may be about to begin

OPINION: I feel 'silly season' may be about to begin

Livestock specialist Katie Fallon looks ahead to the start of this year's silage season

clock 28 April 2026 • 1 min read