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Scottish Farmers Face Dual Viral Threats, Emotional Toll Rises

2/24/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Scotland's farmers are grappling with the looming threats of the Schmallenberg virus and a new strain of bluetongue virus, as Chief Vet Sheila Voas raises alarms over increasing cases. The heart-wrenching loss of over half his lambs to Schmallenberg has left farmer Michael Goldie reeling, underscoring the devastating emotional and financial impact on farming families, further intensified by climate change.

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Story summary

Scotland's farmers are grappling with the looming threats of the Schmallenberg virus and a new strain of bluetongue virus, as Chief Vet Sheila Voas raises alarms over increasing cases. The heart-wrenching loss of over half his lambs to Schmallenberg has left farmer Michael Goldie reeling, underscoring the devastating emotional and financial impact on farming families, further intensified by climate change.