Potentially deadly bluetongue detected on third farm in Scotland

Bluetongue has been detected on a third farm in Scotland after the nation's first-ever case was recorded at the weekend.

The potentially deadly disease, which affects ruminant livestock, infected a sheep on premises less than 2km from the earlier two confirmed cases in the southwest region.

In total, all four animals known to have been infected with bluetongue serotype 3 (BTV-3) have been euthanised.

Scotland's chief veterinary officer, Sheila Voas, said: "All three farms are under restriction while investigations, including testing other susceptible animals, are ongoing.

"Vaccination remains the best way of preventing disease in animals, and I encourage all farmers to discuss this with their vets."

BTV-3 was first detected at the Johnson family's Kirkmabreck Farm in Dumfries and Galloway on 8 August.

A single lamb tested positive.

In a Facebook update, the Johnson family said the rest of the farm's stock had tested negative for the disease.

The post added: "Obviously that's not [to] say we will not have any further cases, but for the time being the rest are okay and can return [to] grazing as they should."

A second case was confirmed in two sheep on a neighbouring farm on 12 August.

Bluetongue - an insect-borne viral disease - does not affect humans or food safety.

It is mainly spread by biting midges, although it can also be spread by natural or artificial breeding, and through the placenta from mother to their offspring.

It is a notifiable disease, meaning any suspected cases are legally required to be reported to the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA).

Symptoms include nasal discharge, redness and swelling of the lips, nose and muzzle, lameness or reluctance to stand, decreased milk production and diarrhoea in cattle.

Read more from Sky News:
Court blocks release of killer who won't reveal where wife's body is
Mother who killed baby with heat from hairdryer jailed

National Farmers' Union (NFU) Scotland previously said: "Our message on vaccination remains clear. We strongly encourage livestock keepers with susceptible animals to speak to their vet about vaccination, with those in the south of Scotland taking particular priority.

"We are aware that availability of vaccine is currently a concern for some producers.

"The Scottish government is engaging with vaccine manufacturers over potential additional supplies, and NFU Scotland is working to establish the level of demand from livestock keepers across the country."

(c) Sky News 2026: Potentially deadly bluetongue detected on third farm in Scotland