Probe into bluetongue cases

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The fifth case was found in a cow near Burstall in Suffolk, close to the rare breeds farm in Baylham, near Ipswich, where the disease was first confirmed on September 21. The animal was immediately culled.

There was also an incident discovered nearly 50 miles further afield, near Lound in Suffolk, on Wednesday.

But Defra says these cases of bluetongue are not classed as an outbreak "unless further investigation demonstrates that disease is circulating between the local animal and midge populations".

Chief Veterinary Officer Debby Reynolds said: "Obviously, we must face the very real risk that bluetongue could already be actively circulating in this country. It will be some time before we have the scientific evidence to confirm whether or not this is the case.

"Meanwhile, as soon as the first bluetongue case was confirmed on Saturday, we have taken all the necessary measures on a precautionary basis.

"While our investigations continue it remains essential for animal keepers to remain vigilant for disease and report any suspicions immediately. Livestock owners should examine their animals twice a day."

Environment Secretary Hilary Benn told the BBC that the announcement of the fifth case was "news that we didn't want to hear".

"But we have put precautionary restrictions in place and the teams are out there trying to find out how much further the disease might have circulated," he said.