UK livestock farmers are facing the worst bluetongue season on record, with 2,201 cases recorded by the Department for Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) in the current season running from July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027. The current outbreak has already surpassed the total number of cases from the previous three seasons combined.
BTV-3 strain spreads to Scotland and Oxfordshire
The virus currently affecting livestock is serotype 3 (BTV-3), which first appeared in England in 2023. This season, the disease has crossed into Scotland for the first time, with cases recorded as far north as Aberdeenshire. In England, new cases are being confirmed daily, including a recent case identified just outside Banbury in Oxfordshire.
Defra data as of September 28 shows 2,124 confirmed premises with BTV-3 or an unspecified serotype. This includes 1,768 in England, 318 in Wales, and 38 in Scotland. Within England, Devon has the highest concentration with 872 confirmed premises, followed by Cornwall with 250 and Somerset with 156.
Did you know? Defra defines a “case” as a premises where at least one animal is present with the virus. Because one farm can have multiple infected animals, the total number of affected livestock is likely higher than the reported number of cases.
Bluetongue virus increases sheep mortality and cattle complications
Bluetongue causes fevers, mouth ulcers, facial swelling, and lameness. In severe cases, the tongue may turn blue and protrude from the mouth. While the virus is often fatal for sheep, it is less likely to kill cattle, though it causes other severe complications. Cattle may experience a drop in milk production, failed pregnancies, and birth defects.
Data from the National Fallen Stock Company (NFSCo) shows a sharp rise in adult sheep collections in August 2026. In Devon, fallen sheep numbers rose 310%, from 159 to 652 compared to the previous year. Somerset saw a 228% increase. Phil Stocker, chief executive of the National Sheep Association, stated that some flocks have reported losses of up to 30% within individual groups.
Cornwall councillor and farmer Adrian Parsons described the experience as “traumatic,” noting that sheep lost condition rapidly. Parsons also warned that rams have “taken quite a hit,” suggesting that survivors may not be as fertile as they should be, which could impact breeding cycles for the next six months.
Climate breakdown and invasive pathogens
The World Organisation for Animal Health links the spread of the virus from Africa to Europe over the last two decades to climate breakdown. Tom Cantillon, a senior analyst at the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit, described the current record outbreak as a “harbinger of things to come,” citing milder winters and hotter summers that allow pests to survive in northern latitudes.
This trend extends beyond livestock. This summer, mosquitoes capable of transmitting dengue and Zika virus were found breeding in homes in east London. Cantillon stated that while vaccinations for animals are necessary, they do not address the climate conditions that encourage these outbreaks.
Vaccine shortages and financial pressure
Farmers can vaccinate livestock, but Robyn Munt, vice-president of the National Farmers’ Union, said obtaining vaccines has been “really challenging” because the process is demand-led. This adds labor pressure to businesses already struggling with drought-related costs.
In Cornwall, farmers are facing simultaneous funding shortages. Councillor Adrian Parsons reported that the sustainable farming incentive scheme application window closed the same day it opened, leaving some without expected support while diesel prices hit £2 per litre.
Pro tip for farmers: Hook Norton Farm Vets advises remaining vigilant and reporting any suspected cases to the government, as bluetongue is a notifiable disease. Vaccination is strongly recommended for those who have not yet secured it.
Bluetongue impact comparison
| Impact Area | Sheep | Cattle |
|---|---|---|
| Mortality | High; some flocks lose up to 30% | Less likely to be fatal |
| Production | Reduced breeding ewes | Drop in milk production |
| Reproduction | Possible abortions | Failed pregnancies/birth defects |
Common questions about the UK bluetongue outbreak
Does bluetongue affect human health or food safety?
No. The Department for Food and Rural Affairs has confirmed the virus poses no threat to the public or the safety of meat and animal products.
How is the virus transmitted between animals?
The virus is transmitted via the bites of infected midges. It cannot be passed directly from one animal to another.
Which areas of the UK are currently restricted?
All of England, Wales, and the southwest of Scotland are designated as bluetongue restricted zones.
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