Bluetongue control zone imposed in south-west Scotland

Temporary restrictions are being introduced on livestock movements in Dumfries and Galloway after bluetongue virus serotype 3 (BTV-3) was detected near Lockerbie, prompting the Scottish government to establish a temporary control zone.

The zone has been introduced as a precautionary measure while officials investigate the source and extent of infection following confirmation that two lambs near Lockerbie tested positive for the disease.

Movements of cattle, sheep, goats and other susceptible ruminants into or out of the area can now only take place under licence, while increased surveillance and testing will be carried out on nearby farms.

See also: Farmers urged to order BTV-3 vaccine to spur production

Scotland’s agriculture minister, Jim Fairlie, said the latest detection, combined with escalating case numbers elsewhere in Britain, required urgent action.

“The recent detection of bluetongue near Lockerbie, combined with the rapid rise in cases across the rest of the UK, means we must act now to strengthen our protections and minimise risk.”

Latest official UK government figures show 517 confirmed BTV-3 cases during the 2026-27 season, including 496 in England, 15 in Wales and six in Scotland. No cases have been recorded in Northern Ireland.

According to the Scottish government, five farms have now recorded cases in Scotland, with infections concentrated in Dumfries and Galloway.

Experts believe infected midges may have been carried north on prevailing winds.

Tougher movement rules

The Scottish government has also tightened rules for Scottish livestock travelling to bluetongue-restricted areas elsewhere in the UK.

From 22 August, cattle, sheep, goats and other susceptible animals attending markets, sales, shows or other gatherings in restricted areas of England and Wales must return to Scotland on the same day and during daylight hours. The move replaces the previous four-day exemption.

Further restrictions will come into force on 10 September, when susceptible livestock entering Scotland from bluetongue restricted areas elsewhere in the UK will generally need to be vaccinated against BTV-3, except for animals returning under the same-day rule.  

Mr Fairlie said the measures would provide time for investigations and allow vaccine uptake to increase.

“This will allow essential time for further investigations and to allow vaccine uptake levels to increase sufficiently to provide greater protective immunity across susceptible livestock in Scotland.”

Vaccination remains key

With demand for vaccine surging in recent weeks, Mr Fairlie urged farmers to discuss vaccination plans with their vets and place orders as soon as possible.

“Vaccination remains our best long-term defence, and I would strongly encourage all farmers to discuss this with their vets and place vaccine orders now to ensure access to supplies,” said Mr Fairlie.

He added that the Scottish government was working with manufacturers and other UK administrations to improve vaccine availability.

“We continue to work with other UK nations, manufacturers and distributors to ensure timely access to vaccine, with more doses being brought in from continental Europe and additional supplies now in production.”

Acknowledging the impact on farmers in the affected area, Mr Fairlie said: “I recognise the significant impact this news will have on farmers and the wider industry in the area, and I do not underestimate the pressure this places on those affected.”