BLUETONGUE

National Beef Association – Bluetongue Statement

Bluetongue presents a real and immediate threat to the UK cattle sector. The National Beef Association’s position is direct and unequivocal:

Vaccination is the most effective defence we have, and producers should be speaking to their vets now to put a plan in place.

The disease moves quickly, immunity does not. Waiting until cases appear locally is not a strategy. Protecting the national herd requires early action, not late reaction.

The NBA urges all beef producers to:

• Engage with their vet immediately to determine the right vaccine, the right timing, and the right priority groups.

• Vaccinate ahead of peak midge activity, ensuring immunity is established before risk increases.

• Monitor stock closely for any signs of disease and act without delay.

• Report suspected cases immediately — Bluetongue is a notifiable disease and rapid reporting is essential.

• Follow movement, testing and vaccination requirements in full, particularly where restrictions apply.

The message is simple: early vaccination, vigilance and rapid reporting are critical to safeguarding the UK beef sector and maintaining market confidence.

RESOURCES 

STEAKHOLDERS PODCAST EP9 BLUETONGUE SPECIAL:  https://youtu.be/i74FkW8jDMA?si=YM1_DsjNOudFsjRx

STEAKHOLDERS PODCAST EP4 BLUETONGUE SPECIAL: https://youtu.be/ib4O2he4fWI?si=pH5gNP57P-MEDimd

FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/share/r/194UiPo1e5/?mibextid=wwXIfr

FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/share/v/18zM2iuLB3/?mibextid=wwXIfr