Larger restricted zone in place after ‘evidence’ of transmission of deadly bluetongue virus in the area

There is evidence of transmission of bluetongue virus in the area, authorities say.

A rise in reported cases of the diseases - which can be fatal for sheep and cattle - have seen the restricted zone across parts of East Riding of Yorkshire and Lincolnshire enlarged.

“Following confirmation of BTV-3 on a number of premises in East Riding of Yorkshire and Lincolnshire, there is now evidence that there is some local transmission of bluetongue virus,” a Governmkent statement read.

“The existing temporary control zone (TCZ) has been revoked and replaced by a larger restricted zone and infected area covering East Riding of Yorkshire and part of Lincolnshire.”

Movement restrictions apply to cattle, sheep and other ruminants and camelids and their germinal products.

Bluetongue is spread by midges and the swelling of the lips and tongue gives a blue appearance, although this does not appear in all cases.

It is also known as the dancing disease as it can lead to lameness, knee walking in sheep and the constant change of foot position in cattle.

The first recent case in Lincolnshire was reported last week.

At present, restricted zones are in place in areas of Yorkshire, Lincolnshire, Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex, East Sussex, Kent and parts of Greater London East.