East Sussex goats hit by deadly virus (From The Argus)

East Sussex goats hit by deadly virus

7:32am Wednesday 6th March 2013 in News By Kimberly Middleton, Acting chief reporter

The first case of the crippling Schmallenberg virus in goats in the UK has been confirmed in East Sussex goats.

The Animal Health Laboratories Veterinary Agency has reported two instances of the virus in goats in the county.

It causes life-threatening deformations in new-born animals and Sussex has already been one of the worst hit areas in the country.

Latest figures showed the outbreak, which until now has only effected sheep and cattle, has hit 56 farms in East Sussex and 49 in West Sussex.

The virus, which came to Britain from the continent, is spread by midges.

Around 200 new cases are still being reported around the country every month. 

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