Iain McIntosh MS has called on the Welsh Government to take urgent action to increase Bluetongue vaccine supplies and diagnostic capacity as farmers and vets deal with the most severe outbreak of the disease seen in the UK.

The MS for Brycheiniog Tawe Nedd has submitted a Written Question asking what action is being taken to increase vaccine availability and laboratory capacity so suspected cases can be confirmed quickly.

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has warned of rising cases of Bluetongue Virus affecting cattle and sheep in England and Wales, with particular concern in counties bordering the Bristol Channel.

It says the current outbreak is the most severe since the strain was first identified in the UK in 2023, with vets reporting more severe symptoms and a higher death rate this year.

Bluetongue poses no risk to human health or food safety, but can cause severe disease and death in sheep, as well as reduced milk production, fertility problems and abnormalities in cattle.

Vaccination is the main protection against infection, but the BVA says supplies are insufficient to meet demand. It has also raised concerns about delays in confirming diagnoses because of pressure on laboratory capacity.

Mr McIntosh said: “This is an extremely worrying situation for farmers across Wales, particularly when livestock farmers are already dealing with so many other pressures.

“Farmers and vets across Brycheiniog Tawe Nedd are on the frontline, and they need to know that everything possible is being done to give them the tools they need to protect their animals.

“This isn't something where we can afford to wait until the situation becomes even worse before acting.

“"Our farmers need practical support, not unnecessary delays. I want to know what the Welsh Government is doing now to make sure vaccines are available and suspected cases can be identified as quickly as possible.”