UK confirms 3,081 bluetongue outbreaks as all Scotland becomes restricted zone

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  The UK recorded 3,081 confirmed bluetongue outbreaks between 1 July and 8 October 2026.

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  The outbreaks included 2,561 in England, 473 in Wales and 47 in Scotland.

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  Since 3 October, all of Scotland has been designated a restricted zone for bluetongue.

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  The Scottish government said the change would simplify the movement of susceptible animals and reduce administrative burdens.

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  Authorities and industry groups have highlighted vaccination as a key way to protect animals from the disease’s effects.

Who

The UK’s Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs reported the outbreak figures. The Scottish government designated all of Scotland a restricted zone.

What

The UK recorded 3,081 confirmed bluetongue outbreaks, and Scotland extended its restricted zone to cover the whole country.

When

The outbreak figures cover 1 July to 8 October 2026. Scotland’s wider restriction took effect on 3 October.

Where

The United Kingdom, including England, Wales and Scotland.

Why

Scotland said treating the country as one area would simplify animal movements and reduce administrative burdens.

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