Bluetongue Spreads to Scottish Cattle as UK Cases Hit 447 and Vaccine Shortage Sparks Calls for Government Action

Scotland has confirmed its first bovine bluetongue case in Dumfries and Galloway as UK infections reach 447 since 1 July — surpassing the entire previous outbreak season in just six weeks — with vaccine demand so intense that supplies are running out within hours, farmers facing four-week waits for new stock, and the NFU pressing DEFRA for emergency support on fallen stock costs and procurement.

Scotland’s bluetongue situation escalated rapidly this week as the country confirmed its first bovine case in a cow at a holding near Creetown, following earlier confirmed infections in three sheep and a lamb on nearby farms in Dumfries and Galloway. Four farms are now believed to be affected, with initial premises placed under restriction and affected animals culled. Scotland’s chief veterinary officer Sheila Voas said the pattern suggests an infected midge plume arrived from elsewhere in Britain. More than 100 animals tested around Creetown have so far returned negative results, though officials say a clearer picture is expected within days.

The vaccine supply situation is critical. A Lockerbie veterinary practice is reported to have used 20,000 doses in 48 hours. BVA Scotland president Vivienne Mackinnon warned manufacturers are facing a supply squeeze, with new production batches taking approximately four weeks. Officials are urging producers to pre-order through their vets rather than wait for stock to arrive.

Across the UK, DEFRA has confirmed 447 cases since 1 July, with around 2,000 suspected cases still under investigation and more than 800 sheep and 150 cattle affected. The acceleration is stark: more cases have been recorded in six weeks than during the entire previous outbreak season.

The NFU is pressing DEFRA for practical support on fallen stock disposal costs, vaccine logistics and testing acceleration. The Addington Fund has launched emergency grants of up to £3,000 for affected farmers. DEFRA farming minister Stephen Morgan visited farms in Cornwall on 15 August as pressure from the industry and opposition politicians intensified.