Blue tongue disease restrictions extended to all of Northamptonshire
It follows a case on the Buckinghamshire border
The Blue Tongue restriction zone has been extended to now include all of Northamptonshire.
It means livestock owners will now need to follow set measures when moving animals.
Bluetongue is a notifiable animal disease spread by midges which affects ruminants (animals including sheep, cattle, goats and deer), as well as camelids (llamas and alpacas), and cases of the viral disease (BTV3) have been confirmed more widely across the East of England during recent months.
Earlier this month the enforced area was expanded to include North Northants, but the latest expansion follows a positive case on the Buckinghamshire border.
Farmers who suspect a case must report it to the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) immediately by calling 03000 200 301. Symptoms vary among affected animals but can include fever, lesions, redness around the mouth, eyes, nose, or above the hooves. In some cases, animals may show few or no symptoms.
Cllr Matt Golby, West Northamptonshire's Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Adult Care, Public Health and Regulatory Services said:
“We understand that this is a concerning time for our farmers, but these restrictions have been put in place by the APHA to prevent further cases and halt the spread of this infectious disease. I encourage everyone who may be impacted to review the guidance available, stay up to date on the latest information and take necessary precautions to protect their livestock.”