A severe outbreak of bluetongue virus, a disease originating in Africa, is sweeping across British livestock herds with unprecedented intensity, surpassing case numbers from the past three years combined. Transmitted by insects, the virus causes painful symptoms in sheep and cattle, including high fevers, mouth ulcers, swollen heads, and lameness—sometimes leading to fatal outcomes. Farmers in regions as far north as Aberdeenshire are reporting record losses as the crisis worsens, raising concerns over livestock health and agricultural productivity. Experts are pointing to climate change as a key factor in the virus’s rapid spread and severity.
Climate crisis blamed as virus that originated in Africa spreads to livestock as far north as AberdeenshireBritish farmers are experiencing the worst bluetongue season on record, with the number of cases surpassing the past three years combined.The viral disease, which affects sheep and cattle among other animals, can cause fevers, ulcers, a swollen head and lameness. The tongue may go blue and even protrude from the mouth. In the most severe cases, the animal can die. Continue reading...
