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Farmers in Devon face anxiety over the impact of bluetongue virus on livestock fertility
Overview
Farmers in Devon are dealing with the effects of the bluetongue virus on their livestock, with concerns growing over reduced fertility in sheep and cattle. Vet Ashley Rubens reported that rams which contracted the illness were infertile, and those vaccinated during the outbreak saw only a 50% fertility rate, impacting this year's breeding season. Government figures up to 5 October showed Devon recording the highest number of cases in the current outbreak with 1,108 affected sites.
Key points
- Livestock farmers in Devon are waiting to see the full impact of the bluetongue virus on animal fertility.
- Data up to 5 October showed Devon had 1,108 sites with bluetongue, the highest in the outbreak.
- Vet Ashley Rubens found that rams which contracted bluetongue were infertile, while those vaccinated during the outbreak had a 50% fertility rate.
- Rams vaccinated before the outbreak remained fully fertile.
- Cattle pregnancy scanning rates have dropped significantly, falling from an expected 90% to around 50% in some cases.
- Midges carrying the virus have thrived during hot weather, with colder, wet and windy weather needed to reduce their impact.