What happened in Cornwall
The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) has confirmed a bluetongue virus case (BTV-8) in a sheep on a premises near Launceston, Cornwall, reported on Friday. This marks the first BTV-8 detection in the UK since 2008, while 78 other cases of BTV-3, a different bluetongue strain, have been identified in England since July 2025. The confirmation comes after authorities investigated suspicious clinical signs and will include tracing and testing any movements on or off the premises. Earlier this month, a ram in Cornwall was confirmed positive for BTV-3, underscoring ongoing bluetongue activity in the region.
In line with disease control protocols, authorities will monitor the affected site and any animal movements to prevent further spread. The case underscores the need for vigilance as officials work to determine sources and implement appropriate containment measures.
About bluetongue and the BTV-8 strain
Bluetongue is a viral disease transmitted mainly by midges. It is a notifiable disease in the UK, meaning veterinary authorities must be alerted when suspected cases arise. While bluetongue poses no risk to human health or food safety, it can be fatal for livestock. The Pirbright Institute notes that bluetongue was once considered exotic in the UK before the BTV-8 outbreak across parts of Europe between 2006 and 2009. A vaccination program introduced after those outbreaks helped to stop the spread of BTV-8. Typical signs in affected animals include ulcers or sores in the mouth and nose, ocular or nasal discharge, drooling, and swelling of the lips, tongue, head, and neck.
Impacts on farming and trade
Outbreaks of bluetongue trigger movement controls and trade restrictions to prevent spread. The current BTV-8 detection means authorities will trace movements from the affected premises and may impose further testing or movement limitations. Officials reiterate that bluetongue does not threaten food safety or human health, but outbreaks can disrupt livestock production and trade. At present, movement of livestock from England into Wales requires a negative test, and transporting unvaccinated animals across the border is restricted, illustrating the ongoing emphasis on biosecurity and traceability in the livestock sector.
What farmers should watch and do
Farmers should be alert for bluetongue signs in sheep and other susceptible livestock. Common indicators include mouth ulcers, nasal or eye discharge, excessive drooling, and swelling of the lips, tongue, head, or neck. Any suspicions should be reported promptly to APHA or a local veterinary surgeon to trigger testing and traceability. This rapid response helps protect other herds and supports ongoing disease surveillance efforts.
Notes for readers
While bluetongue poses a serious threat to livestock health and the economy, it does not pose a risk to human health or food safety. Movement controls and vaccination strategies, where applicable, remain central to preventing spread. The UK continues to monitor bluetongue activity closely, with authorities urging farmers to maintain high biosecurity standards and report any unusual animal illness without delay.
