Rare Breeds Survival Trust (RBST) has written to the Defra Minister for Biosecurity, Borders and Animals, Sue Hayman urging action to improve access to Bluetongue vaccination for rare breed livestock.

A recent RBST consultation with breed societies has found that many rare breeds still only have vaccination levels of less than 50% of registered animals, with some below 20%. Of the rare breed societies and breeder groups consulted, 60% advised that their members were struggling to obtain vaccines.

 Rare Breeds Survival Trust Chief Executive Christopher Price said: “With low population numbers already, the Bluetongue virus is a concerning threat to the breed-level survival of the UK’s rarest native livestock, and to the crucial genetic diversity these breeds maintain for food and farming. But a high proportion of the UK’s rare breed livestock remain unprotected and keepers are struggling to access Bluetongue vaccines in appropriate quantities for smaller herds and flocks.

 “We are asking Defra to ensure vaccine manufacturers produce consignments of smaller packages as soon as possible, particularly Bultavo-3 which is already approved for sale in 10 dose packages. We also want to see government publish official guidance for vets to encourage safe and legal vaccine sharing, which will support the least wasteful distribution of available vaccine. As the government seeks to address the ongoing challenge in sourcing and distributing the vaccine, these actions will help ensure our most vulnerable breeds are not missed out.”

 RBST’s letter also asks Defra to ensure that the particular position and needs of rare breeds are considered in the government’s planning for the 2027 bluetongue season.

 Christopher Price said: “The needs of the UK’s rare breeds should be recognised and acted upon as part of the government’s wider efforts to increase vaccine availability for 2027. Anecdotal evidence suggests that different breeds of livestock respond to the virus in different ways, and that some may be more susceptible than others. We are asking Defra to gather relevant data and to make this information available for research purposes, with a view to informed decisions and targeting resources in the future.”