Bluetongue restriction zone extended into North Northamptonshire
Environment08 October 2024
On Friday 4 October, the bluetongue restriction zone was widened to incorporate North Northamptonshire, meaning farmers in the area must now follow restrictions on moving animals.
Anyone can check whether they are in the restricted zone through the interactive map on the DEFRA website.
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 across the East of England. It does not affect humans, horses or pigs.
If farmers suspect a case, they must report it to the Animal and Plant Health Agency immediately on 03000 200 301. Symptoms vary across susceptible species but include fever, lesions, redness include fever, lesions, redness of the mouth, eyes, nose, reddening of the skin above the hoof, excessive salivation and nasal discharge. Some animals may show few or no clinical signs.
Restrictions like this are introduced to hopefully prevent further cases of Bluetongue and we must do all we can to try and stop this very infectious disease from spreading further across the country.Cllr David Brackenbury, North Northamptonshire Council’s Executive Member for Growth and Regeneration
This is worrying time for farmers across the country and I would urge anyone who might be impacted to take a look at the guidance online, check whether you are in a restricted area and keep an eye out for updates.Jason Smithers, Leader of the Council
The DEFRA website has the most up to date position across the country including current controls, guidance for the industry and you can also opt to receive email alerts for any updates.
Useful information for farmers:
- Ruminant Health & Welfare and the NFU website contain practical and up to date information for farmers.
- Up to date information about BTV3 vaccination.
- Farmers can apply for a licence to exempt a specific movement from Bluetongue restrictions. DEFRA advice is to allow at least 5 days for the licence application to be processed. Complex and high-risk movements will need extra time to process.