The bluetongue virus serotype 3 has been identified in the UK, classifying all of England as an infected area and leading to significant movement restrictions and testing. This strain of the virus, which affects sheep, cattle, and other ruminants, poses a greater severity than previous outbreaks. While earlier strains like BTV-8 from 2007 were contained, BTV-3 represents a new threat, and its recent spread within the UK could result in long-term damages to farming sectors. Human health is not at risk, and transmission occurs through biting midges.
The bluetongue virus serotype 3 (BTV-3) has classified all of England as an infected area, leading to movement restrictions and testing in surrounding regions.
BTV-3 causes illness and death in sheep, cattle, goats, and other ruminants, highlighting significant concerns for UK agriculture.
The outbreak of bluetongue virus presents a more severe risk than previous strains, potentially causing lasting damage to UK farming.
BTV-3, first detected in late 2023, brings challenges unlike those posed by the previously contained BTV-8 strain, which was detected in 2007.
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