Livestock

Bluetongue in Sheep: 2025 Welfare Update

2025 welfare update on bluetongue disease in sheep -- emerging UK risk and vaccination guidance.

Key Facts

Bluetongue serotype 3 was confirmed in UK sheep flocks from late 2023 with cases continuing into 2025
The disease causes painful blisters, facial swelling, and severe lameness in affected sheep
Naïve sheep populations with no prior exposure have higher mortality rates from bluetongue
Vaccination with licensed BTV-3 vaccines is now available and recommended in risk areas
Midges are the primary vector -- Culicoides species active from spring through autumn
Movement restrictions during outbreaks limit welfare management options for farmers
The 2025 situation is more geographically widespread than initial 2023 cases
Welfare monitoring of vaccinated and unvaccinated flocks is informing policy responses

Welfare Significance

Bluetongue in 2025 represents a genuine welfare emergency for UK sheep. The pain from oral and foot lesions is severe, and mortality in unvaccinated flocks can be high. Vaccination is the most welfare-effective intervention -- farmers in risk areas should vaccinate without delay.

What You Can Do

Vaccinate all sheep in bluetongue risk zones using the licensed BTV-3 vaccine
Monitor sheep closely for early bluetongue signs including fever, facial swelling, and lameness
Follow APHA movement licence requirements to prevent disease spread
Report suspected bluetongue cases to APHA immediately -- early detection limits welfare harm