Farming is standard life round here in South Somerset – it’s what keeps our communities going, writes Adam Dance MP.
So, seeing the cases of bluetongue creep up is really worrying, to be honest.
For anyone not sure what it is: bluetongue is a bug spread by midges.
It doesn't harm people at all, and your food is completely safe, but it can be absolutely devastating for sheep, cows, and goats.
And right now, Somerset is getting hit pretty hard.
By mid-August, we had 52 confirmed cases right here in Somerset.
Across the UK, it’s up over 440 cases (nearly all in England), plus another couple of thousand being looked into.
I've heard from people locally where their animals are dealing with awful fevers, swelling, limping, and breathing problems, and sadly, some haven't made it.
Every single one of those numbers is a local farmer lying awake at night worrying about their herd, the costs, and how to keep things running.
Our farmers are already under massive strain as it is.
We've had the unusual hot, dry weather messing with crops and feed, and now this on top of it.
Getting animals vaccinated is really the main way to tackle this.
But talking to local farmers, the main things coming up are: can they actually get hold of the jabs?
Can they afford them on top of vet bills?
And what do they do when an animal dies?
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The government keeps saying they're working on vaccine supplies and tell everyone to call their vets.
There are three vaccines approved for BTV-3 in the UK right now.
But, honestly, farmers need a lot more than just advice handed down from above.
They need straight, clear answers – no endless jargon – reliable vaccine access, and real practical support when stock gets sick.
The reporting systems are confusing, mapping is lagging behind, and the financial hit is huge.
My Lib Dem colleague and neighbouring MP Sarah Dyke has been pushing ministers hard on this, and I'm right behind her.
Our farmers work their socks off to feed us and look after the countryside.
When something like bluetongue lands on their doorstep, they need to know the government actually has their back.
I’ll keep getting out there to talk with local farmers across South Somerset and keeping the pressure on ministers up in Westminster.
If you keep livestock, please keep a really close eye on them, chat to your vet about vaccines, and report anything that looks off straight away.
Our farming families have enough on their plates.
They shouldn't have to tackle this on their own.
I will continue standing up for our farming communities and pushing the government to give them the practical support they need.
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