No cases of Schmallenberg virus (SBV) have been reported in Scotland so far this year, according to Scotland's Rural College (SRUC).
Records maintained by veterinary surveillance centres until May 1, 2014, show there have been some suspected cases but these have all tested negative.
Following Scotland’s first confirmed SBV cases early in 2013 in Dumfries, Galloway and Aberdeenshire, it was expected that the disease might spread further during the second half of 2013, with deformed calves and lambs being born in the first 6 months of 2014.
However, vets working in these areas report that there have been no confirmed cases so far this spring.
Schmallenberg virus is related to a known virus called Akabane, which is spread by midges and causes brain defects and foetal malformations. Its effects vary, causing high lamb and calf mortality on some farms, while others suffer few effects.
A further indicator that SBV has not spread further comes from milk tests taken from dairy herd bulk tanks across Scotland throughout 2013, which revealed no evidence of SBV exposure.
Colin Mason is the veterinary centre manager in Dumfries. He commented:
“These three separate indicators would suggest that there has been very limited spread of SBV throughout Scotland in 2013. It’s surprising, given the mild autumn and winter we experienced. But so far it seems the risk of SBV infection establishing throughout Scotland remains low.”
Farmers and veterinary practitioners are advised to take these indicators into account when considering future SBV vaccination strategies. However, it is stressed that the disease is still a threat, and continued vigilance is recommended in case of outbreaks in Europe of other parts of the UK.
With Strangles Awareness Week just around the corner (5-11 May), vets are being encouraged to share a survey about the disease with their horse-owning clients.
