FUW back #DoNotWaitVaccinate campaign to combat Bluetounge

The Farmers Union of Wales (FUW) is supporting the #DoNotWaitVaccinate campaign,  encouraging farmers to talk to their vets about vaccinating their livestock against Bluetounge virus.

The campaign is led by the Wales Animal Health and Welfare Framework Group, including the Wales Veterinary Science Centre (WVSC) and Iechyd Da, and aims to encourage and educate farmers about vaccinating their livestock.

Bluetounge

Bluetongue virus (BTV) is a potentially fatal infectious,  yet non-contagious, disease that is spread by midges. It affects wild and domestic ruminants such as sheep, goats and cattle. The virus does not infect humans and there is no risk to public health or food safety.

Since 1 July 2025, the Welsh Government has introduced limits on moving livestock from England into Wales in response to the spread of the bluetongue virus.

Livestock keepers should contact your local Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) office immediately on 0300 303 8268 if you suspect Bluetongue.

Vaccination 

As there is no treatment for the disease, BTV-3 continues to pose a significant threat to both cattle and sheep with potential impacts on animal health, productivity, and trade. Therefore one of the tools in the box that can be utilised in slowing the spread of disease is vaccination.

#DoNotWaitVaccinate 

As part of the #DoNotWaitVaccinate campaign, the Farmers’ Union of Wales is encouraging livestock keepers to discuss the merits of vaccination of their animals with their private vet. 

One farmer who has decided to vaccinate his livestock is dairy farmer Michael Williams from Pembrokeshire. Commenting he said:

“I’ve made the decision to vaccinate because animal welfare is a top priority for us at our farm. When a new threat approaches, we must act responsibly for the benefit of all and use whatever tools are available".

Meanwhile, FUW Gwent Vice-Chair, Verity Vater, a sheep farmer near the England and Wales border, added:

"As soon as my local vets sent out their email to say that the Bluetongue vaccine was available, I was straight on the phone to them to discuss vaccination.

We have great livestock in Wales and vaccination is a way we can all look to protect them from Bluetongue."

For more information about Bluetounge, contact your local vet or visit the Welsh Government website.