Blue Tongue Vaccine given the go ahead in Wales
The Welsh Government has worked closely with farming industry representatives, who have requested that all three BTV-3 vaccines be licensed for use in Wales.
An online general licence for vaccine use in Wales became available from 1 March.
The vaccines will be available on prescription through veterinary practices and can be administered by livestock keepers themselves, provided appropriate guidance is followed.
Response to Growing Bluetongue Risk
This decision follows the continued spread of Bluetongue virus (BTV-3) cases in England since August 2024.
On 4 September 2024, three unauthorised BTV-3 vaccines received permission for emergency use in the UK from the Defra Secretary of State. The vaccines were licensed for use in England last year, and Welsh Ministers’ decision now means they can also be used in Wales.
Chief Veterinary Officer Urges Farmers to Prepare
Chief Veterinary Officer for Wales, Dr Richard Irvine, said:
"This decision to licence these vaccines was informed by our recent risk assessment indicating that Wales is now at high risk of experiencing an incursion of Bluetongue this year.
"Our primary aim is to keep Bluetongue out of Wales through biosecurity, vigilance and safe sourcing of livestock.
"Wales remains free of BTV-3, but it is important to be prepared. Vaccines give Welsh farmers an important tool to reduce any impact of this disease in their herds and flocks.
"I would encourage farmers considering vaccination to consult their veterinary surgeon to discuss whether vaccination is appropriate for their livestock."
Key Information for Farmers
Farmers should be aware of the following requirements:
Vaccines must be prescribed by a veterinary surgeon.
Vaccination costs must be covered by livestock owners.
Spring vaccination is recommended to provide optimal protection before peak midge activity during summer and autumn.
Detailed vaccination records must be maintained for five years.
Individual animal vaccination details must be reported within 48 hours through the government reporting system.
Industry Concerns Prompted Political Action
NSA Wales & Border Ram Sales Committee member Beau Herdman had already called for political intervention amid concerns over the potential impact of Bluetongue disease on Welsh sheep farming.
Mr Herdman contacted David Chadwick MP (Brecon & Radnor), highlighting the urgency of the situation.
In response, Mr Chadwick wrote to Wales’ Deputy First Minister, Huw Irranca-Davies, stressing the need to permit vaccine use in Wales as quickly as possible.
The MP also submitted a written Parliamentary Question to the UK Government, seeking an update on discussions to ensure the vaccine is made available across all devolved nations.
These actions followed concerns raised by Radnorshire farmer and NSA Wales & Border Ram Sales member Beau Herdman, who emphasised the importance of protecting Welsh livestock from the growing threat of Bluetongue disease.
