There have been no cases of Schmallenberg in Scotland from investigations conducted by SAC vet labs so far in 2018.

“At this point we have made no diagnoses in SBV malformation in calves or lambs across Scotland,” said George Caldow, head of SAC Consulting Veterinary Services. “At this time last year we had made one diagnosis in late February from material in the borders and one early march. Then all the rest of the cases came in April.

“We may well see some disease this year and from the bulk tank milk surveillance it suggests that they may be confined to farms in Dumfries and Galloway and the Borders.”

SRUC has eight labs across the country, from Thurso down to Dumfries and the Borders. Farmers with suspect lambs or calves should contact their vet.