Climate change linked to arrival of bluetongue
Tensions have increased among the farming community with the discovery of the first
Amid further suspected foot-and-mouth discoveries, there are now fears of an outbreak of the bluetongue virus, although the infected
The virus, which is not harmful to humans, is a danger to cattle, goats, llamas and deer. However, it is most lethal when it comes into contact with sheep. It can also reduce milk production in cattle. A vaccine for the disease is still in development, which means there is currently no preventative measure for farmers to take in order to protect animals.
President of the National Farmers' Union, Peter Kendall, said: "I'm optimistic this can be quite an isolated, localised case and going into winter these midges aren't as active as they would have been if this had happened two or three months ago."
Climate change could be behind the spreading of such diseases, as the virus – which is spread by midges – thrives in warmer conditions. There is also a possibility that animal imports could have helped spread the infection.
The news follows reports of new restrictions at a farm in Hampshire, the sixth site suspected to have been infiltrated by foot-and-mouth. Farmers are being warned to be extremely vigilant at this time and to report any unusual symptoms immediately.
Mr Kendall said farmers are facing "financial Armageddon" as a result of the crises.
