Dear
Member
Bluetongue: Latest situation - 17 May 2008
To date we have had over 3000 Llamas and Alpacas
vaccinated against Bluetongue.
This is a good number and the message is still very clear:
If you are within the Protection Zone :
Don't hesitate, Vaccinate!
To
check the position of your own farm please type your post code into the
interactive map on the defra bluetongue website page. It is not
permitted under EU law to vaccinate animals outside the Protection
Zone. The penalties are severe. http://www.defra.gov.uk/animalh/diseases/notifiable/bluetongue/latest/index.htm.
However, we have had
one report of the loss of an alpaca.
This animal has had
a post mortem done by The Ministry and the result found that the animal was
anaemic. The Bluetongue vaccine just pushed the animal, who was, due to the
anaemia, weak, over the edge.
Both Llamas and
Alpacas are known to get anaemia.
Anaemia is a blood-related medical
condition in which an animal has a low red blood cell (RBC) count and low
packed cell volume (PCV). The animal is usually underweight or have had a
recent weight loss, depressed and very pale or white mucus membranes.
If you suspect you
have an anaemic animal or a sick, weak or old animal, we suggest you contact
your vet for advise before vaccinating it.
DO NOT let this stop you
vaccinating the rest of your animals.
Don’t forget, we have had reports that a small number of animals may suffer
from mild stiffness and flue like symptoms the day after
the vaccination. There are no other reported
side-effects. Members
are reminded to watch out for injection abscesses as they would with any
vaccine. If
you have queries contact your vet.
Liz Butler
llamaliz@hotmail.com, or 01737 823375.
Joint
Health & Welfare Committee