Further cases of bluetongue virus have prompted the European Commission to extend the restriction zone.

The commission is also to revise certain measures with regard to the movement of animals from the protection zones around the outbreaks.

Under this action, the restriction zone is extended to cover all of Rhineland Palatinate and more areas in Lower Saxony, due to further bluetongue outbreaks in Germany.

The restriction zone has also been expanded to cover more areas in North-West France due to new cases of the disease in Belgium, close to the French border.

In addition, the commission has decided to slightly adapt the restrictions on the movement of ruminants in order to reduce unnecessary burdens on farmers in these areas, and to reflect certain animal health and welfare considerations.

The commission said it is monitoring the bluetongue situation very closely, and measures will continue to be revised if necessary in light of any developments or further spread of the disease.

Source: meatnews.com