Bluetongue surveillance zone reaches Devon (From Mid Devon Star)

Bluetongue surveillance zone reaches Devon

11:15am Thursday 14th February 2008 in News By Jon Wills

DEVON has been placed in a "Surveillance Zone" as a result of DEFRA confirming a case of Bluetongue in the Poole area of Dorset.

A new declaration was issued by DEFRA on Wednesday that extends the Protection and Surveillance zones currently in place in the country.

There is no blanket ban on the movement of livestock but certain movement restrictions will come into force. Full details can be obtained via the DEFRA website at www.defra.gov.uk or by phoning their helpline on 08459 33 55 77.

Bluetongue is a disease that affects ruminating animals, including cattle, deer, goats and camelids (camels, llamas, alpacas, guanaco and vicuña) and particularly sheep. It does not affect pigs or horses.

The disease is characterised by changes to the mucous linings of the mouth and nose and the coronary band of the foot. Bluetongue is caused by a virus spread by certain types of biting midges. It does not affect humans.

Councillor Brian Berman, Devon County Council's Executive Member for Communities, said: "We need to be clear that there are currently no reported instances of Bluetongue in Devon and no health implications for humans. However, farmers should be vigilant and continue to routinely monitor stock and report any suspicious symptoms".

"We are all hoping that the current outbreaks of Bluetongue are contained because of the impact animal disease has across the whole Devon community. The Trading Standards Farming Standards Team will be available to advise businesses and will monitor compliance with the restrictions now in place."

Devon's Trading Standards Service Farming Standards Animal Health Operations Centre is available to provide advice and assistance to the farming community. The Centre can be contacted on 08451 551999 and is open from 9am to 5pm Monday to Thursday, 9am to 4.30pm on Friday.