Bluetongue alert: farmers in Ceredigion urged to remain vigilant
The first confirmed cases of Bluetongue virus (BTV) have now been identified in Wales, and all farmers and livestock keepers are urged to take note of any potential symptoms.
As of Wednesday, 01 October 2025, cases have been confirmed in Powys and Monmouthshire. You can receive up to date email and text alerts from the Animal & Plant Health Agency (APHA) by signing up to the following alert service: Animal and Plant Health Agency
With the risk of further spread, it is vital that everyone in our farming community remains vigilant and takes steps to protect their animals.
What you need to do:
- Check your animals regularly for signs of bluetongue, including fever, swelling of the head and neck, lameness, and mouth ulcers.
- Report any suspicious symptoms immediately to your vet or the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA).
- Discuss vaccination options with your vet. Vaccination is the best way to reduce the impact of bluetongue and protect your herd or flock.
- Follow movement restrictions and biosecurity advice issued by Welsh Government and APHA.
- Source animals responsibly and keep up to date with the latest guidance on livestock movements.
Bluetongue is a notifiable disease caused by infection with bluetongue virus. Bluetongue virus is mainly spread by biting midges. The virus affects sheep, cattle, other ruminants such as deer and goats, camelids such as llamas and alpacas. Rarely, bluetongue can affect dogs and other carnivores if they eat infected material (such as aborted material and afterbirth).
It does not affect people or food safety, but outbreaks can result in prolonged animal movement and trade restrictions.
Councillor Matthew Vaux, Cabinet Member responsible for Public Protection, added: “It’s important that anyone who keeps livestock is aware of the symptoms of bluetongue and know how to spot it. If you see signs of the virus, report it immediately to your vet or the APHA. Stay informed, stay prepared, and help protect Ceredigion’s livestock sector.”
You can find further information from these official resources: