Bluetongue
The total number of Bluetongue cases in Wales has risen to 23 for the 2025/2026 season, following DCVO confirmation of BTV-3 in a calf near Forden in Powys on 10 April. The calf, which was exhibiting neurological signs died with suspicious brain lesions found on postmortem. It is assumed the infection was contracted by the dam last autumn. Two other calves with similar clinical signs died on the same premises over the preceding 1-2 weeks.
Veterinary prescriptions for BTV-3 vaccine in Wales are approaching 260k for the 2025/26 season. We working to update and publish a licence for the use of BTV-8 vaccines in Wales and hope to have it on our website week commencing 20 April. Livestock keepers will be required to record the use of BTV-8 vaccine at the link here Animal keeper reports of authorised Bluetongue vaccination activity
HPAI
Working with industry, Defra and APHA, Welsh Government removed the bird housing requirement under the Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) on 9 April. The mandatory biosecurity element of the AIPZ remains in place but will be reviewed if risk levels for wild birds drop to low.
In view of decreasing HPAI risk levels for some orders of kept birds , we are also working with APHA to develop new general licences to facilitate poultry and kept bird gatherings over the coming weeks. It is unlikely Anseriformes (ducks, geese swans) will be included in the general licences. Any applications to hold higher risk bird gatherings including Anseriformes will be subject to a specific licence application process and an APHA risk assessment before they can be considered.
