We have finished the initial analysis of samples we have received as a result of our enhanced surveillance for this new disease. We have identified the Schmallenberg virus in some of these samples and as we continue surveillance we may find further cases.

These samples came from the counties of Norfolk, Suffolk and East Sussex. These counties are in the area that we had identified as potentially being at risk from infected midges blown across the Channel from the affected areas and we suspect that this is the most likely cause of transmission.

Please see the previous AHVLA news item on the Schmallenberg virus for background information.

Further information

• Defra website – Schmallenberg disease page
• VLA website – Schmallenberg disease page including information sheet