Blue Tongue Vaccine given the go ahead in Wales
27th February 2025
Welsh Government has worked closely with farming industry representatives who have
requested all three BTV-3 vaccines be licenced for use in Wales. An online general licence will
be available for vaccine use in Wales from 1 st March.
The vaccines will be available on prescription and sold from veterinary practices and can be
administered by livestock keepers themselves, following appropriate guidance.
This decision follows the continued spread of Bluetongue virus (BTV-3) cases in England since
August 2024. On 4 September 2024, three unauthorised BTV-3 vaccines received Defra
Secretary of State permission for emergency use in the UK. The vaccines were licenced for use
in England last year and Welsh Ministers’ decision to grant a licence means they can now be
used in Wales.
Chief Veterinary Officer for Wales, Dr Richard Irvine, said:
This decision to licence these vaccines was informed by our recent risk assessment indicating
that Wales is now at high risk of experiencing an incursion of Bluetongue this year. Our primary
aim is to keep Bluetongue out of Wales through biosecurity, vigilance and safe sourcing of
livestock.
Wales remains free of BTV-3, but it is important to be prepared. Vaccines give Welsh farmers an
important tool to reduce any impact of this disease in their herds and flocks.
I would encourage farmers considering vaccination to consult their veterinary surgeon to discuss
whether vaccination is appropriate for their livestock.
Key information for farmers:
vaccines must be prescribed by a veterinary surgeon
costs must be covered by livestock owners
spring vaccination is recommended for optimal protection, ensuring animals are protected before
peak midge activity in summer and autumn
detailed vaccination records must be maintained for 5 years
individual animal vaccination details must be reported within 48 hours: Animal keeper reports
of BTV-3 vaccination activity (on gov.uk)
NSA Wales & Border Ram Sales committee member, Beau Herdman, had already prompted
political intervention. Following fears over the possible impact of Blue Tongue disease on Welsh
sheep farming, he contacted Brecon & Radnor MP, David Chadwick.
The MP wrote to Wales Deputy First Minister, Huw Irranca Davies, stressing the urgency of
permitting the vaccine to be used in Wales.
Mr Chadwick also submitted a written Parliamentary question, asking the UK government about
the progress of discussions to ensure vaccine is delivered throughout the devolved nations.
The questions follow a request from NSA Wales & Border Ram Sale member, Radnorshire
farmer Beau Herdman.
