It seems that it would take some more time for a potentially fatal livestock virus to die down, as there are cases reported across farms in West Sussex. Confirming the presence of the Schmallenberg virus, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has sent warning signals throughout society. According to the latest reports, ten animals have been confirmed to be infected with the virus. As of now, the total number of cases stands at 83 in England, making it clear that the virus infection is spreading. The virus, which can trigger birth defects and miscarriages, mainly affects sheep, goats, and cattle, though there are slim chances that it could affect humans. The infection emerged from infected areas in Europe and made its way here through infected midges. However, reports indicate that not even a single farm imported animals during 2011 from diseased areas in mainland Europe. As the livestock industry grapples with the current crisis, the number of cases is expected to increase further as lambing and calving begin to gather pace. With reports of cases coming from the Isle of Wight and in Wiltshire, West Berkshire, and Gloucestershire, there is an urgent need for the authorities concerned to take action before the situation becomes even more critical.
"As farmers, vets, and governments continue to gather information about the progress and effects of this disease, it's vital that farmers continue to report any suspicions they have as soon as possible," said a spokesman for Defra, who confirmed that regions like Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex, Kent, East and West Sussex, Hertfordshire, Surrey, Hampshire, and Cornwall have also been affected in the past. As the lambing season approaches, it will be very challenging to see how the South East National Farmers Union (NFU) manages to deal with the situation.