Evidence has emerged this week that livestock on a number of Scottish farms have been exposed to the Schmallenberg virus which entered the south-east of England last summer. asasas
It had been thought that mainland Scotland had escaped the virus, which causes flu-like symptoms in affected cattle and sheep but which can also result in the birth of deformed calves and lambs.
Last week, a tup bought in Shropshire was tested positive when it arrived in Orkney. Now SAC Consulting Veterinary Services has reported that animals on three farms have tested positive for Schmallenberg antibodies after moving from England and Wales.
Rural affairs secretary Richard Lochhead urged farmers to exercise caution when importing animals and also advised they discuss with their vet use of commercially available testing for the virus.
ANDREW ARBUCKLE