Implementation of Mandatory BVD Control in England: A New Era for Livestock Health (2027)

You may have heard on the grapevine that BVD testing is to become mandatory in England from 2027 – we have seen this coming for a while. Bovine Viral Diarrhoea (BVD) leads to significant economic losses for farmers due to reduced productivity, poor reproductive performance, and increased susceptibility to other diseases. Despite the voluntary control schemes in place, England has lagged behind other UK nations (Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland) in implementing a mandatory BVD eradication program.

In 2027, England is set to introduce a mandatory BVD control program, aligning with the rest of the UK and Europe, with the aim of eliminating this costly disease. We think it’s the right step – let me explain why!

Why Mandatory BVD Control?

Economic Impact

BVD costs the UK cattle industry an estimated £61 million annually (AHDB, 2023). Infected herds suffer from:

Reduced milk yields
Poor fertility and abortions
Increased calf mortality
Higher treatment costs due to secondary infections

Voluntary schemes were not enough

While voluntary BVD control initiatives (such as the England BVD Free program) have made progress, participation has been inconsistent. A mandatory approach ensures nationwide compliance, preventing reinfection from non-compliant herds.

Alignment with devolved nations

Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland already have mandatory BVD eradication programs. England’s adoption ensures a unified approach across the UK, facilitating cattle movement and trade.

What will it look like? Key components control program (2027)

Compulsory testing of all breeding cattle

All breeding herds must test for Persistently Infected (PI) animals — the primary source of BVD spread.
Initial whole-herd testing using **ear notch testing or bulk milk PCR** (for dairy herds).

Removal of PI Animals

Identified PI cattle must be culled or isolated immediately to prevent viral spread.
Movement restrictions will apply to infected herds until they achieve BVD-free status.

Movement Controls & Biosecurity

Pre-movement testing may be required for cattle sales to prevent BVD transmission.
Enhanced biosecurity measures, including quarantine protocols for incoming stock.

Herd Accreditation & Monitoring

Farms achieving BVD-free status will receive official accreditation.
Ongoing surveillance through annual testing or bulk milk monitoring (for dairy herds).

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Financial penalties for farms failing to test or remove PI animals.
Possible restrictions on livestock sales for non-compliant herds.

Benefits of Mandatory BVD Control

Improved Herd Health & Productivity – Elimination of BVD leads to better growth rates, fertility, and milk yields.

Reduced Antibiotic Use – Healthier cattle mean fewer secondary infections, supporting antimicrobial stewardship.

Economic Gains – AHDB estimates a £3 return for every £1 spent on BVD eradication.

Enhanced Trade & Market Access – Buyers increasingly demand BVD-free cattle, improving market opportunities.

Challenges

Cost of Testing & Culling – there is funding via the animal health and welfare pathway for this – speak to your vet for more information if you haven’t already taken this up. .

Logistical Barriers – ensuring timely testing and PI removal requires coordination.

Compliance Enforcement – Effective monitoring will be crucial to prevent non-compliance undermining progress.

Preparing for 2027:

Engage with your vet – develop a BVD control plan tailored to your herd.
Test early – consider pre-mandatory testing to identify and remove PIs ahead of enforcement.
Review biosecurity – strengthen measures to prevent reintroduction of BVD.
Stay informed – follow updates from **DEFRA, AHDB, and Cattle Health Certification Standards (CHeCS).

This will mark a critical step toward eradicating one of the most costly cattle diseases. While we know challenges exist, the long-term benefits for animal health, farm profitability, and the wider industry are undeniable. Please get in touch with your vet if you’re at all concerned or looking for advice.

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