Free Schmallenberg tests offered to Scottish farmers
Farmers in Scotland are being offered free tests the Schmallenberg virus (SBV) in animals imported from areas where the virus is circulating. Knowing whether SBV is present, either on their farm or in the local area, could help farmers to make informed choices about the timing of breeding.
The move is a result of a partnership involving the Scottish Government, Scottish Agricultural College (SAC), the National Farmers Union of Scotland (NFUS), and Moredun Research Institute (MRI).
NFUS have now announced additional support for SAC Veterinary laboratories to test up to four blood samples per farm, from either cattle or sheep moving from areas known to be affected by SBV, free of charge. Cattle and sheep moving to Scotland from the area south of a line from Lincolnshire, to the Severn Estuary, will also be eligible for the testing.
Richard Lochhead, Rural Affairs Secretary, said: “News of any emerging disease is always concerning for farmers and livestock keepers. However, we now have a clearer idea of how the virus spreads and the relatively short time taken for animals to develop immunity. By testing animals that have been recently moved to Scotland we will get an early warning if the virus arrives in Scotland and will be able to trace its spread.”
Kim Willoughby of the Virus Surveillance Unit at Moredun commented:"Research into Schmallenberg virus is underway in many countries. It was hoped the Schmallenberg virus might not overwinter in England but recent results have shown new infections are occurring now, and post-movement testing will allow Scotland to accumulate more knowledge about the risks of bringing in animals from affected areas." She added “It is unknown however whether the disease will establish in Scotland even if it is introduced.”
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.
