South East farmers urged to vaccinate animals against bluetongue
The National Farmers' Union is urging farmers in the South East of England to vaccinate livestock against the bluetongue virus. The disease has seen over 500 cases in the UK this year and poses a significant threat to sheep and cattle.
Why it matters
Bluetongue virus causes significant economic loss and animal suffering, making proactive vaccination essential for agricultural stability in the region.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, There have been more than 500 cases of potentially fatal bluetongue in the UK, according to the latest government figures
Farmers across the South East must vaccinate their animals against the potentially fatal bluetongue "as soon as possible", the National Farmers' Union (NFU) has said.
According to government figures published on Thursday, , external there have now been 517 cases of the virus in the UK so far this year, including 496 in England.
The BBC has reported on cases found in Scotland and the South West, and the NFU has made clear its concerns for the South East.
Livestock board chair for the East of England Hugh Broom said: "If your animals are not vaccinated already, please speak to your vet about getting on the list...it could just take a westerly wind to send the disease our way."
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