UK - Blue Tongue Disease found in cow

The first case of Blue tongue disease has been discovered in cattle within the UK. DEFRA have confirmed the disease was present in a cow at a farm in Ipswich, Suffolk. The disease, spread by midges, is rarely fatal and is not contagious. Humans are not affected by the virus. The outbreak will further concern Gordon Brown who has had to deal with a number of crises since coming to office [BBC]. The news will also increase concern within the farming community already suffering from restrictions resulting from the recent foot & mouth disease outbreaks.