We have finished testing the latest samples received as a result of heightened vigilance for this new disease. Schmallenberg virus has now been identified in 11 submissions across the counties of Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex, Kent and East Sussex. 

These counties are in the area already identified as potentially at risk from infected midges being blown across the Channel from affected areas in Europe. We, therefore, suspect this to be the most likely cause of transmission.

As surveillance continues and the lambing season progress we would expect further cases.

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