Livestock farmers across Wales are being urged to remain vigilant as cases of bluetongue continue to increase, with the recent prolonged spell of hot weather creating favourable conditions for the midges that spread the disease.
The Country Land and Business Association (CLA) Cymru has issued a warning to livestock keepers after the first confirmed case of Bluetongue virus serotype 3 (BTV-3) in Wales for the 2026/27 season was identified in the Vale of Glamorgan.
Nearly 500 cases have now been recorded across the UK, including around 40 in Wales, with further detections expected while midge activity remains high.
Hot and dry conditions can increase the risk of transmission by creating favourable conditions for the biting midges responsible for spreading the virus. The disease can affect cattle, sheep, goats and other susceptible animals.
CLA Cymru, which represents around 3,000 members across Wales, is encouraging farmers to monitor their animals closely and speak to their private vet about vaccination against BTV-3.
Farmers Warned to Monitor Livestock Closely
The organisation says vaccination represents one of the most important tools available to livestock farmers, alongside careful monitoring and measures designed to reduce animals’ exposure to midges.
Victoria Bond, CLA Cymru Director, said:
“The rise in bluetongue cases is a major concern for livestock farmers across Wales. We know many are already dealing with significant welfare, emotional and financial impacts. While there is no single solution, vaccination is one of the strongest defences available against BTV-3.
“We encourage all livestock keepers to discuss the options for their flock or herd with their vet and to put a clear plan in place. Close monitoring of stock, sensible movement decisions and practical steps to reduce exposure to midges all play an important role.
“The situation is evolving rapidly and it is vital that farmers remain vigilant, report any suspected cases promptly and make full use of the latest guidance.”
What is Bluetongue?
Bluetongue is a viral disease affecting ruminants, including sheep and cattle. It is primarily transmitted through bites from infected midges rather than directly from animal to animal.
The severity of infection can vary, but symptoms can include fever, swelling of the head and neck, mouth lesions, lameness and reduced milk production. Sheep can be particularly badly affected.
The disease does not pose a risk to people and does not affect food safety, but outbreaks can have serious animal welfare and financial consequences for farms.
The warmer months are an important period for transmission because higher temperatures can increase both midge activity and the speed at which the virus develops within the insects.
Suspected Cases Must Be Reported
BTV-3 does not result in movement restrictions at individual animal or farm level. However, bluetongue remains a notifiable disease.
Farmers and livestock keepers who suspect bluetongue must report it to the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) on 0300 303 8268. Cattle abortions must also be reported.
Prompt reporting can help authorities track the spread of the disease and ensure affected animals receive appropriate attention.
CLA Cymru said it is continuing to work with the agricultural industry and government as the situation develops, while representing the concerns of Welsh farmers and rural businesses.
With midge activity expected to remain high during warm weather, farmers are being encouraged to keep a close watch on their animals and review their plans for managing the risk of BTV-3.
Full advice for farmers, including the latest information on bluetongue in Wales, vaccination and reporting suspected cases, is available from the Welsh Government’s official bluetongue guidance.
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1 https://www.gov.uk/guidance/bluetongue-latest-situation#cases