Bluetongue virus has been detected in an imported cow near Middlesbrough, DEFRA has confirmed.

The animal originated from within a Protection Zone in Lower Saxony, Germany, and was detected through routine post-import testing carried out on all Bluetongue-susceptible animals entering the UK.

The farm near Middlesbrough has been placed under restrictions, and the cow will be culled as it potentially provides a source of infection for the local midge population, and therefore other animals.

A full epidemiological investigation is being undertaken on the premises.

Currently there is no evidence that virus is circulating in the area, therefore there will be no changes to the existing Bluetongue zones and no new zones will be established at this time.

Fred Landeg, acting chief veterinary officer said: "Importers need to carefully consider the potential risks to UK industry as a whole from importing animals from Bluetongue Restricted Zones."