UK Bluetongue Outbreak: Safeguarding Animal Health
HallMark's Expertise in Action Against Bluetongue Virus
HallMark Veterinary & Compliance Services is at the forefront of addressing the recent Bluetongue virus (BTV) outbreak in the UK. As a key partner of the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), we are actively involved in providing specialist temporary staffing for critical roles in managing disease.
Bluetongue Virus: A Brief Overview
Bluetongue virus is a vector-borne, non-contagious viral disease affecting domestic and wild ruminants, including sheep, goats, cattle, deer, and camelids. It poses no risk to humans or food safety. For further details refer to the encloses FSA Bluetongue Disease Card and Key Facts. The recent cases in Norfolk and Kent mark the UK's first outbreak since 2007, with 50 infected animals across 27 premises identified as of 11 January 2024. For more information on Bluetongue and how to spot and report the disease, visit GOV.UK. Farmers can also contact the dedicated bluetongue hotline at 024 7771 0386 for advice or queries.
Current Situation and Control Measures
The Temporary Control Zones (TCZ) in Norfolk and Kent remain active, with ongoing surveillance indicating no current circulation of the virus in midges in Great Britain. Movement restrictions continue within these zones, and farmers are advised to stay informed via the Bluetongue interactive map provided by Defra.
HallMark's Contribution
Our role in this scenario is crucial. We have deployed a number of Senior Veterinary Inspectors to assist the government in managing the outbreak. Our framework is designed to cater to both urgent and routine staffing needs in veterinary, technical, and scientific fields, ensuring a rapid response to emergency situations like this.
Join Our Efforts
We are committed to building a robust recruitment pipeline for government roles, often required at short notice. We encourage professionals seeking full-time, part-time, or locum positions in veterinary, technical, and scientific fields to join our efforts in supporting APHA and other organisations in their vital work.
At HallMark, we are proud to contribute our expertise to such critical animal health efforts and remain dedicated to providing exceptional staffing solutions.
