Defra Secretary visits farmers in restricted bluetongue zone

Defra Secretary Steve Reed has visited farmers facing the realities of bluetongue restrictions.

On Wednesday (September 25), the Defra Secretary was joined by NFU representatives and APHA's Veterinary Head of Outbreaks for England Sascha Van Helvoort at a farm in Essex to hear about the challenges of farming in a restricted zone. 

There have been more than 95 cases of bluetongue serotype-3 (BTV-3) on farms in England since August 26, with the Government implementing a single restricted zone covering the east of England from Lincolnshire to West Sussex.

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The Government said restrictions have been put in place to control the movement of animals which may have the virus, and added the restrictions are under 'constant review' as the disease situation develops.

The Defra Secretary said he understood the stress farmers faced, but added current restrictions could limit the spread of bluetongue.  

"I have heard first-hand the experiences of farmers battling this disease and we are working hard to prevent its spread into other areas of England and Great Britain," Mr Reed adds.

"We understand restrictions can have an impact but stress the importance of everyone adhering to these.

"We are committed to working with everyone affected and urge people to report livestock which they suspect have the disease."

Ms Helvoort added: "The increasing number of BTV-3 cases demonstrate the importance of vigilance from all livestock keepers and farmers," she says.

"We have field teams, vets and scientists across the country who are working hard to help tackle bluetongue virus and ensure farmers are being supported.

"If you have any suspicions of disease, you must report this to the Animal Plant Health Agency immediately so we can provide assistance." 

Suspicion of bluetongue in animals in England must be reported to the APHA on 03000200301, 03003 038 268 in Wales or to a local Field Services Office in Scotland.

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