Worst ever outbreak of bluetongue hits British farms

The current strain of bluetongue, which is passed on by midges, was first seen in England in 2023. Photograph: Murdo MacLeod/The Guardian

British farmers are experiencing the worst bluetongue season on record, with the number of cases surpassing the past three years combined.

The viral disease, which affects sheep and cattle among other animals, can cause fevers, ulcers, a swollen head and lameness. The tongue may go blue and even protrude from the mouth. In the most severe cases, the animal can die.