Bluetongue is a viral disease affeacting ruminants such as sheep, cattle and deer.

The disease is spread by a certain type of midge BUT IT DOES NOT AFFECT HUMANS.

As Bluetongue does not affect humans, dogs or horses, there are no restrictions on dog walking or horse riding.

For more information on Bluetongue disease, please click here for the DEFRA website.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

Can I be infected by Bluetongue?

No, there is no risk to human health as the disease only affects ruminants such as cattle and sheep.

Can I walk my dog in the countryside?

Yes,  there are no restrictions and footpaths have not been closed because of Bluetongue.

Will it affect my dog?

No, the disease only affects ruminants such as cattle and sheep, horses and dogs are not affected by Bluetongue.

How can I get further information?

The defra website contains further up-to-date information about the disease, click here.