OFFICIAL figures have revealed that cases of Bluetongue across the country are nearing 1,000.

The news comes as new statistics have been published by the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA). The figures show 973 cases of Bluetongue serotype 3 (BTV-3) have been confirmed in the United Kingdom during the 2026 to 2027 season.

The official number of confirmed cases has doubled over the past three weeks with the peak of the outbreak expected at the end of September, depending on seasonal weather conditions.

However, despite these figures, some believe the scale of the situation is much wider than DEFRA and APHA have reported.

North Cornwall farmer Adrian Parsons, has criticised the bodies for their slow reaction to the outbreak, and for the delay in recording cases.

Speaking to us, he said: “DEFRA and some of those representing our industry were slow to recognise the true scale of the problem developing at farm level, particularly given how slowly cases were identified and recorded by APHA. By the time the seriousness of the outbreak was fully understood, we found ourselves in a situation where vaccine supplies had all but run out across the country. As a result, farmers on the fringes of hotspot areas are struggling to access vaccines to protect their livestock and help contain the spread of the virus.”

Dr Mandy Nevel, AHDB’s Head of Animal Health and Welfare, said: “Over the past few weeks we have seen the bluetongue virus spread from the south-west of England and across large areas of England, Wales and Scotland.

“Vaccination firmly remains the single most effective tool available to help protect vulnerable animals. Although vaccine availability has been the subject of much discussion over recent weeks, we are seeing an increase in supply. Farmers who have not yet vaccinated should speak with their local vet to ensure their animals are protected from this deadly disease.

“The key message remains clear: It is not too late to vaccinate.”

Confirmed BTV-3 cases across the UK in the 2026 to 2027 season as of September 8 stand at 973, with 841 cases in England, many of which are spread across the South West.

Such figures have caused concern for farmers in the region, with many worried about the potential long-term financial impact.

“The financial impact on our business, however, will be felt for some time,” continued Adrian. “The loss of breeding ewes and rams, the costs associated with their disposal, the need to replace valuable stock, and the money spent on vaccines and supportive treatments for affected animals have already spiralled into the thousands of pounds. What remains unknown is the longer-term impact on our breeding flock and the implications for next year's lambing season.”

Prys Morgan, AHDB’s Beef and Lamb Director, added: “Bluetongue doesn’t respect country or county boundaries, and neither does our support.

“This is an anxious time for a lot of farm businesses. Speak to your vet, get livestock vaccinated if you haven’t already, and don’t wait for clinical signs before finding out more.”