FARMERS in Wales are being urged to remain vigilant following concerns that livestock in the region have been exposed to Schmallenberg virus.

Schmallenberg can cause a temporary dip in production, such as milk output, although abortions, stillbirths and birth defects can result when pregnant animals are affected.

Recent weeks have seen positive tests for Schmallenberg reported in bulk milk from dairy herds.

There have also been some positive blood samples reported from cattle and sheep.

It is unusual because the Schmallenberg virus is more often associated with livestock in the south and east of England, having been carried by midges from continental Europe.

Independent dairy and beef consultant Hefin Richards said positive Schmallenburg virus results had been recorded in west Wales. “What we’ve seen in dairy cows is sporadic scouring and a yield drop.”

Subsequent tests suggested the cause was Schmallenberg virus rather than anything related to feed rations.

“There was flying midge activity well into the autumn,” said Mr Richards.

Mild autumn weather meant the virus had persisted longer than might otherwise have been the case but the risk period had now passed.

November was warm and it was noticeable how many flying insects there were around late into the season, said Mr Richards,

Digestive upset and loss of production had been an immediate issue although there would be a risk of foetal abnormalities in animals exposed to the virus while pregnant.

Schmallenberg virus causes mild clinical signs in adult ruminants, ranging from fever, diarrhoea and temporarily reduced milk production.

Infection of pregnant cattle, sheep and goats can cause transplacental transmission, which months later can lead to abortions, stillbirths and congenital malformations in newborns.