Extension of Bluetongue Restricted Zones

The British Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has confirmed changes to the Bluetongue Protection and Surveillance Zones, following confirmation of disease on premises within the current zones.

14 February 2008

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Europe

In line with the UK Bluetongue Control Strategy and EU legislation, a case in East Sussex requires Eastbourne District to become part of the Protection Zone.

A single case in Essex and further assessment of cases found last week, mean that the two separate Protection Zones will now be merged between the Districts of North Hertfordshire and Surrey Heath.

A further case identified near Poole, Dorset requires the establishment of a new Protection Zone covering all of Dorset and the New Forest. As a result, the Surveillance Zone now extends into all of Somerset and Devon. The Welsh Assembly Government will declare the necessary Restricted Zone in South East Wales.

All of the infected animals were found as a result of pre-movement testing currently required before moving animals out of restricted zones in the vector-free period.

All evidence suggests that these animals were infected before the vector-free period commenced, and therefore does not suggest that virus is circulating in the UK at present.

Further similar cases may be expected in the coming weeks.