Referring to the autumn trading period, Fairlie said the decision removes “an administrative burden on farmers at what is a critical time in the trading calendar”.
“While extending the zone removes the need for movement licences, it does not change our long-term approach to tackling this disease,” he said.
“Vaccination remains the single most effective way for farmers to protect their animals from the worst effects of bluetongue, and I would strongly encourage anyone with susceptible livestock to speak to their vet now to discuss the right vaccination approach and to secure supplies ahead of next year’s higher-risk season,” he added.
A joint Scottish government and industry communications group is being established to promote vaccination and to share advice on the impact of the disease with farmers and veterinary practitioners.
Neil Shand, the chief executive of the Scottish Beef Association, said the decision is “the most logical way forward to prevent trade complications.”
Michael Priestley, policy manager with the National Sheep Association, said there was now a “trade-off” between the benefit of eased restrictions and the increased risk of the virus spreading.
He said: “This trade-off is being made because of the faith in the vaccine technology, which to date has offered excellent coverage to livestock in affected areas of the UK.”
Symptoms of the disease include nasal discharge, redness and swelling of the lips, nose and muzzle, lameness or reluctance to stand, a decrease in milk production, and diarrhoea in cattle.
Cases must be reported to the UK government’s Animal and Plant Health agency, which publishes daily updates.
