Bluetongue Update – Protecting Your Livestock

Bluetongue has now been confirmed in Scotland

The bluetongue situation has changed, with the first confirmed cases of Bluetongue virus serotype 3 (BTV-3) in Scotland during the current 2026/27 season.

As of 13 August 2026, two cases of BTV-3 have been confirmed in Scotland, with the first new Scottish case confirmed on 12 August in a sheep following reports of suspicious clinical signs. Both Scottish cases are in Dumfries and Galloway. Across Great Britain, there have now been 373 confirmed cases during the current season, including 362 in England, 9 in Wales and 2 in Scotland.

Bluetongue is a notifiable viral disease affecting ruminants including sheep, cattle, goats and deer, as well as camelids. It is primarily spread by biting midges, and we are now in a period of increased risk for transmission.

What signs should you look out for?

Clinical signs can include:

• Fever and lethargy
• Swelling of the head and face
• Excessive salivation and drooling
• Crusting, ulcers or sores around the mouth and muzzle
• Nasal discharge
• Lameness
• Reduced appetite
• Abortion and reproductive problems
• In severe cases, death

If you see signs that could be consistent with bluetongue, please contact us promptly. Suspected cases should also be reported to the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA).

Vaccination

Cases of bluetongue are expected to continue rising and peak in September. The best way to protect your sheep and cattle is by vaccinating them. The vaccine is given in 2 doses, 3 weeks apart and immunity is reached 3 weeks after that. There is a current shortage of vaccine in the UK but we have managed to source a supply. 

**Please contact us ASAP if you would like to order!**

Stay Vigilant

With confirmed cases now present in Scotland, it is more important than ever to remain vigilant for signs of bluetongue and to consider the measures available to protect your livestock.

For the most up-to-date information, including confirmed cases, current risk levels, control zones and movement requirements, please refer to the GOV.UK Bluetongue: latest situation page - Bluetongue: latest situation - GOV.UK

The APHA Bluetongue Case Map also provides an up-to-date map showing the location of premises in Great Britain where one or more animals have tested positive for bluetongue by PCR.

Latest official information:

APHA Bluetongue Case Map: The latest case map is available via the GOV.UK bluetongue situation page - Bluetongue Cases and Zones 

If you have any concerns about bluetongue, livestock movements or vaccination, please contact the practice.