NEW cases of bluetongue have brought the total number to 22 since the initial outbreak last month, but there is still 'no evidence' the virus is circulating, Defra says.

The UK’s chief veterinary officer has urged farmers to remain vigilant for bluetongue serotype 3 after five new cases were confirmed.

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There is currently a wide temporary control zone (TCZ) in Kent following the initial outbreak of the virus in November, the UK's first case since 2007.

Last week, a case of bluetongue was detected in sheep in Norfolk, marking a leap in the virus since it was first detected. There is also a TCZ in Norfolk.

Defra said in a new update: "Following active surveillance in the north-east Kent TCZ, a further 3 cases of bluetongue in cattle have been identified in the Sandwich Bay area from the same herd as the 5 positives confirmed on 15 December.

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"All animals will be humanely culled to minimise the risk of onward transmission. The TCZ is not being extended and movement restrictions continue to apply to cattle, sheep, and other ruminants in the zone.

"This brings the total number of cases to 22 on 8 different holdings. There is currently still no evidence that bluetongue virus is circulating in Great Britain."

The bluetongue virus is usually transmitted by midge bites and affects cows, goats, sheep, and other camelids such as llamas.