23 Nov Bluetongue virus

As you’ll be aware, there have been BTV outbreaks in the Netherlands and in France. Defra Policy have issued advice and guidance which Farmcare has shared with all practices. Every year, APHA conducts a BTV survey in the southern counties of England, supported by Farmcare and our VDP supplier practices. This year, the survey has been extended to include more counties from Devon, across the southern coast and up to Norfolk. Farmcare assists APHA with recruitment of keepers to participate in the survey and we then seek assistance from practices to conduct the sampling. Sampling is due to take place in November and December and will be concurrent to a TB test, where possible, to minimise disruption to keeper and to practice. Thank you to all practices that will be involved throughout this survey.