THE Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) has extended its bluetongue control zone to parts of Devon after cases were identified in neighbouring Dorset.

An insect-borne viral disease, Bluetongue is caused by a virus which is transmitted by certain species of biting midges.

All species of ruminants are susceptible, although sheep are typically the most severely affected.

Following the identification of cases in cattle in Dorset, the APHA has this week extended its Bluetongue control zone to include parts of East Devon.

The disease, which does not affect humans, has several clinical signs, including fever, swelling of the head and neck and lameness.

The Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs’ interactive Bluetongue virus map shows the control zone to include Sidmouth and Honiton.