The SAC Consulting’s Veterinary Surveillance Network has detected Schmallenberg Virus (SBV) circulating in Dumfries and Galloway in autumn 2017.

The virus is capable of causing skeletal deformities in calves and lambs if the foetus is infected in the early stages of pregnancy.

Nigel Miller, chair of Livestock Health Scotland, said: “The positive bulk milk samples from the southwest provide an early warning of possible problems ahead, during the 2018 calving and lambing period.”

George Caldow, head of SAC Consulting Veterinary Services, advises farmers concerned about the potential SBV that their first course of action should be to speak to their vet.