Bluetongue: how to spot and report the disease
Advice on what to do if you suspect there is an outbreak of this infectious disease.
Bluetongue is a notifiable insect-borne viral disease that affects sheep, cattle, other ruminants such as goats, and camelids such as llamas.
It is mostly spread by midges, although it can also be spread by breeding, from mother to offspring. It does not affect people or food safety.
Outbreaks can result in prolonged animal movement and trade restrictions. The disease itself can be very serious, with high rates of death in infected sheep and fertility problems in infected cattle
Animal keepers should be very vigilant for any signs of notifiable disease and immediately report any suspected cases to APHA.
When importing animals into Scotland, animal keepers should ensure they consider the risks carefully and check the health status of the animals. Animal keepers should also consult their vet on other measures, such as protective vaccination if appropriate.
Current situation
Great Britain
Bluetongue is present in Great Britain, although the disease has not yet reached Scotland. The Animal and Plant Agency (APHA) monitor the situation by surveillance testing.
Movement controls are in place. We expect them to remain until 9 September 2026.
Different movement controls apply depending on the circumstances. You can read more about movement controls in this guide.
Check the APHA interactive bluetongue virus map to see animal disease control zones currently in place in Great Britain.
Europe
Bluetongue has been reported in several European countries.
See the current outbreak assessments and the map of Restricted Zones in place across Europe for more detail.
The rules mean:
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you cannot currently trade live ruminant animals from Great Britain to the EU
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you cannot currently move live ruminant animals to Northern Ireland
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movements from other parts of the UK to Scotland are subject to conditions
Speak to your vet about the risks of importing stock from countries affected by bluetongue.
Human health implications
The disease does not affect humans.
Contact
If you suspect signs of any notifiable diseases, you must immediately notify your Scotland: field service local office at the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA). Failure to do so is an offence.