- A record 2,485 cases of bluetongue have been recorded in the UK just three months into the 2026-27 season, exceeding the total from the previous three years combined.
- The Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs confirmed that 2,031 cases were recorded in England, 414 in Wales, and 40 in Scotland.
- The viral disease affects livestock including cattle, sheep, goats, and deer, but it poses no risk to human health or public safety.
- Representatives from the National Farmers’ Union and veterinary officials have urged farmers to remain vigilant, continue disease surveillance, and vaccinate their livestock.
- Defra attributed the record surge to hot, humid summer weather, which created favourable conditions for the biting midges responsible for spreading the virus.
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