Blue Tongue Dairy Insight

Blue tongue is a viral disease caused by infection by the blue tongue virus (BTV - a member of the Reoviridae family). The virus is transmitted by biting midges of the Culicoides species, meaning there is no risk from direct contact with infected animals. It can infect all ruminant species; cattle, camelids, deer, goats and sheep. BTV is not a zoonotic disease so poses no threat to human health.

This Dairy Insight explores the virus, how it is spread and how you can reduce the risk on your own farm.

November 2023

About Kingshay insight publications

Kingshay has been producing bi-monthly publications for dairy farmers since 1991. Publishing on issues critical to the success of a modern dairy farming business.

These briefings include dairy insight, business insight and research insight, they provide dairy farmers, large animal vets, farm consultants and other interested parties with the most vital and timely information in a concise two-page format. The information contained in our insight publications is written and updated by our experts to ensure accuracy and to save you time.

A selection of insight publications and Farming Notes are available to buy individually from our online shop. To gain access to all our publications become a Kingshay member.