Risk of disease is increasing due to climate change

At least one new vector-borne disease (VBD) could enter the UK in the next decade, leading veterinary scientists have warned.

Both Dr Anthony Wilson, head of mathematical biology of vector-borne disease at the Pirbright Institute, and Richard Kock, professor of wildlife health and emerging diseases at the Royal Veterinary College, have claimed that a disease similar to bluetongue or Schmallenberg virus (SBV) will arrive in the UK in the next decade, and that a new disease could catch UK authorities unaware.

Professor Kock cited rising temperatures, increased air transportation and more tourists and visitors to the UK as 'certainties' which will lead to the country being at a higher risk of VBD.

Dr Wilson commented: "We do have processes to reduce the risks and blanket bans [on imports] can work in some cases. But we can't really stop these things spreading because some insects will be blown over the Channel by the wind."

However, farmer groups have played down the fears, believing it to be 'irresponsible to shout about something' based on theory, rather than reality and that it is impossible to predict the future.

National Sheep Association chief executive Phil Stocker said that while climate change will bring challenges, including new diseased to the UK, the ability of farmers to adapt should not be underestimated.