Schmallenberg virus (SBV) has now been identified in samples submitted from 40 farms in the south and east of England, across the counties of Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex, Kent, East Sussex, West Sussex and Hertfordshire. All of the counties where SBV infection has been identified are in the zones recognised as potentially at risk from infected midges being blown across last summer from affected areas in northern mainland Europe.

With the exception of one SBV positive cattle sample from a farm in West Sussex, all of the GB cases of SBV infection have been diagnosed in sheep to date.

Figures correct as at 13 February 2012

Please see the VLA website Schmallenberg virus page for background information.

AHVLA has also issued an information note for farmers and vets in Great Britain.