Bluetongue serotype 3 (BTV-3) identified in sheep that were moved to Gwynedd from the east of England

This is the first time Bluetongue-3 has been found in Wales and follows BTV-3 cases being detected in the east of England over the last month.

Farmers are being urged to be vigilant for the disease and practice safe sourcing of livestock.  It is a legal requirement for suspected cases to be reported through to the Animal and Plant Health Agency on 0300 303 8268.

Bluetongue is caused by a virus that is primarily transmitted by certain species of biting midges. It affects ruminants (such as cattle, goats, sheep and deer) and camelids (such as alpacas and llamas).

Bluetongue does not affect people or food safety.

Further information and clinical symptoms can be found here https://www.gov.wales/bluetongue-virus-btv