Changes to Bluetongue Control Policy in Wales

Bluetongue virus (BTV) is an infectious, non-contagious, vector-borne viral disease. It affects wild and domestic ruminants such as sheep, goats, cattle, deer and camelids. It does not infect humans and there is no risk to public health or food safety.

The exemptions to pre-movement testing have been extended from 12 June until 19 June. This is to allow livestock keepers sufficient time to prepare for the upcoming changes to our Bluetongue Control Policy in Wales.

From 20 June 2025 any susceptible animals (ruminants or camelids including cattle, sheep, goats, deer, llamas and alpacas) moving from a Bluetongue Restricted Zone to Wales to live will require a specific movement licence, and valid pre-movement test at the keeper’s expense. If an animal is showing clinical signs on the day of transport they cannot move to Wales.

The following measures introduced during the low vector period will remain in place until 1 July 2025:

• Vector controls such as use of insecticides at approved markets or in vehicles and abattoirs are not required until 1 July.
• The requirement for slaughterhouses to be designated to receive animals from the Restricted Zone (RZ) remains suspended until 1 July.

From 1 July 2025 the Bluetongue Restricted Zone will expand to cover all of England. The Deputy First Minister has released a Written Statement outlining his decision on our policy approach from this date.

For more information click here.