Investigators Want Farmer Feedback About Bluetongue Danger

To assist frame response to the illness, investigators are interested in speaking with cattle producers in Britain regarding their likelihood of bluetongue disease.

The UK was free of the notifiable virus transmitted by insects that affects sheep and cattle; nevertheless, additional instances were reported in late 2023 and early 2024.

Rainfall and warmer temperatures foster an environment that is conducive to the disease-transmitting biting midges.

As a result, cattle may be more vulnerable, and the UK Chief Vet is cautioning veterinarians and farmers to exercise great caution.

Investigators at Aberdeen’s James Hutton Institute are interested in learning more about this new danger from those who raise sheep and cattle.

The illness does not harm people or food safety, thus the goal is to assist them in evaluating the situation and educating policy makers so they can make informed decisions.