Bluetongue virus case confirmed on farm
Getty ImagesA case of blue tongue has been confirmed among cattle in Shropshire.
The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs and the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) confirmed one bovine had tested positive for the disease earlier this week.
The virus, which is spread by midge bites, primarily affects sheep, cattle, deer and goats, and causes swelling and ulcers in the mouth.
The agencies said the case was found after abortions and a drop in milk production at a farm in the county.
Symptoms of blue tongue in cattle include:
- lethargy
- crusty erosions around the nostrils and muzzle
- redness of the mouth, eyes, nose
- reddening of the skin above the hoof
- nasal discharge
- reddening and erosions on the teats
- fever
- milk drop
- not eating
- abortion, foetal deformities and stillbirths
Farmers must contact APHA to report suspected bluetongue and a duty vet will discuss the situation, to determine if the virus can be ruled out.
In England, there have been 261 cases of bluetongue since July 2025. While the virus does not affect humans, cases can be devastating for farmers.
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