UK bluetongue cases surge ahead of official figures, prompting urgent vaccination calls

The UK reports a sharper rise in bluetongue cases than previously announced, with authorities urging livestock owners to act swiftly to contain the outbreak through testing and vaccination.

UK bluetongue cases have risen more sharply than the earlier tally suggested. According to the latest Defra and APHA update published on 24 July, there have been 21 confirmed BTV-3 cases in England and three in Wales since the 2026/27 season began on 1 July, taking the total to 24 across the UK. There have been no cases in Scotland or Northern Ireland.

The government said it will fund diagnostic testing for up to three affected animals where suspect clinical signs are reported, and the case map continues to show premises in Great Britain where PCR has detected BTV-3, BTV-8 or BTV-12. Defra and APHA are urging livestock keepers to report suspected cases immediately and to discuss vaccination with their vet, describing it as the most effective protection.

Bluetongue is spread by biting midges and affects sheep, cattle and other ruminants, as well as camelids. It is not a human health or food safety risk, but outbreaks can still trigger movement and trade restrictions, making early reporting and biosecurity central to containment.