First case of bluetongue virus found on Welsh farm
The virus does not affect food safety but can spell disaster for livestock
The first case of the bluetongue virus has been found on a farm in Wales - after a month of spreading in the east of England.
Previously, counties such as Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex and Lincolnshire had been detecting cases of the disease.
However, this is the first time that bluetongue has been found in an animal in Wales, after it was identified on a farm in Gwynedd.
Bluetongue causes no harm to food safety or people, but can be deadly to livestock - and is transmitted by certain species of biting midges.
Among the animals that are susceptible to the disease are cattle, goats, sheep, deer, alpacas and llamas.
Speaking about the discovery, Deputy Chief Veterinary Officer Gavin Watkins said that the case did not originate from Wales itself.
"The cases identified in Gwynedd are from animals bought into Wales," Watkins said.
"We will apply measures to stop disease spreading from these three sheep, and our aim remains to keep Wales free of bluetongue.
"It is important to talk to your vet, and practice safe-sourcing of livestock to protect our herds and flocks and keep any further disease out of Wales.
"I would urge all farmers and others who keep ruminants and camelids to be vigilant for the signs of Bluetongue and to report any suspect cases to APHA immediately.
"We have been raising awareness of the disease with vets and industry and appreciate their help in communicating the risks to animal keepers in Wales."
Further investigations are now underway on the farm to work out the risk factor to other farms nearby, and to assess any potential restrictions and controls.