Fourth Bluetongue Outbreak Confirmed in Suffolk

Archived

Thursday, 27 September 2007

Farmers are preparing for a full-blown outbreak of the bluetongue virus after a fourth case was confirmed in Suffolk.

It is feared that further testing will show that the virus has spread to the midge population, which would allow it to spread much more freely.

If an outbreak is declared by Defra, a 93 mile radius restriction zone will be set up around infected premises, as well as a complete ban on cattle exports to the Continent for 120 days.

For more info go to: http://www.defra.gov.uk/animalh/diseases/notifiable/bluetongue/index.htm