A CASE of the bluetongue virus has been recorded in livestock in Scotland for the first time, while cases continue to rise across the UK.
The potentially deadly disease, bluetongue serotype 3 (BTV-3), was confirmed in Dumfries and Galloway on August 8.
The Scottish Government said the animal has been euthanised on welfare grounds, and the farm affected is under restrictions.
Bluetongue is a notifiable animal disease affecting cattle, sheep and other ruminants. Farmers who suspect the disease are legally required to report it immediately.
Scotland’s chief veterinary officer Sheila Voas said: “At this stage it is not possible to know if bluetongue is circulating in Scotland, or whether this is an individual case.
“The farm is under restriction while investigations, including testing other susceptible animals, are ongoing.
“Vaccination remains the best way of preventing disease in animals, and I encourage all farmers to discuss this with their vets.”
The latest update comes as Boehringer Ingelheim acknowledged the growing concern within the livestock sector and confirmed it is working to secure additional bluetongue vaccine supplies.
UK Government figures show there have been 289 cases of BTV-3 in the UK in the 2026 to 2027 bluetongue season. An estimated 283 of those are in England, with most in the south-west of the country.
Dr Sioned Timothy, technical services manager for livestock at Boehringer Ingelheim, said: “We recognise the significant worry and uncertainty the current bluetongue outbreak is causing for farmers, veterinary professionals and the wider livestock industry.
"We understand the serious impact this disease can have on livestock, livelihoods and farm businesses. Farmers who are concerned about their animals should speak to their veterinary surgeon in the first instance to discuss the most appropriate options for their herd or flock.”
She said vaccination remained the strongest defence against the disease.
“Vaccination remains the most effective tool available to help protect susceptible livestock against bluetongue. Our clinical data demonstrates a high level of protection in vaccinated animals, and we are working at pace to help ensure farmers have access to this important preventive measure,” she said.
Dr Timothy added that the company was working alongside Defra, the Veterinary Medicines Directorate, veterinary professionals and livestock industry organisations to increase vaccine availability.
“We are working urgently with Defra, the Veterinary Medicines Directorate, veterinary professionals and livestock industry organisations to progress the necessary regulatory processes and bring additional vaccine supplies into the UK as quickly as possible. We are committed to supporting a coordinated response while ensuring all regulatory requirements are met.”
