BVA issues warning over Schmallenberg virus circulation

The British Veterinary Association has issued a warning that the dangerous Schmallenberg virus is currently circulating among UK livestock.

Analysis of the epidemiology of the disease from the Royal Veterinary College and the Institute for Animal Health reveals that the virus has over-wintered and could pose a threat to many areas that were previously unaffected.

The disease is thought to originate from infected midges blown across the Channel and has been associated with symptoms such as milk drop, pyrexia and diarrhoea among adult cattle, as well as late abortion or birth defects in newborn cattle, sheep and goats.

According to the BVA, the virus is only circulating among a small number of animals at present, but farmers must remain watchful, even in areas that have already been affected by the disease.

BVA president Carl Padgett noted that a vaccine is being worked on, but is unlikely to be available for some months.

"In the meantime farmers and vets must continue to share as much information as possible to continue to progress our understanding," he added.