Wiltshire bluetongue cases recorded amid shortage of vaccines
Wiltshire has recorded new cases of the bluetongue virus in livestock amid a nationwide vaccine shortage in the UK. Veterinary experts warn that the outbreak is the worst on record, exacerbated by unusually hot weather that accelerates midge activity.
Why it matters
The virus poses a severe threat to the agricultural sector and animal welfare, necessitating urgent government intervention to secure vaccine supplies for farmers.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Cases of the virus have been rising since July
Wiltshire has recorded two cases of bluetongue, a virus which can be deadly in livestock, amid reports of a vaccine shortage .
Cases of the insect-borne virus, which affects sheep and cattle as well as other animals, have risen to 630 across England, Wales and Scotland since the outbreak began in July.
Melanie McPherson from Avon Farm Vets in Chippenham said they were "struggling to get hold of vaccines" and had not had a delivery for two weeks.
The Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) said it was "working with vaccine manufacturers" to increase supplies.
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