Three cases of a new strain of bluetongue have been found in sheep in Gwynedd.

It's the first time Bluetongue-3 (BTV-3) has been detected in Wales following a cluster of cases in the East of England over the past month.

Veterinary officials have confirmed the sheep were brought into North Wales from the region.

Bluetongue does not affect people or food safety as the disease does not infect humans - it usually affects sheep, goats, cattle, deer and camelids

But the Welsh Government is urging farmers to be vigilant and practice safe sourcing or livestock.

Bluetongue is caused by a virus that is primarily transmitted by certain species of biting midges. It affects ruminants (such as cattle, goats, sheep and deer) and camelids (such as alpacas and llamas).

Investigations are continuing on the affected farm - at an undisclosed location - to determine whether additional controls are needed.

A restriction zone to try and stem the spread of the disease is already in place across the South East of England.

Gavin Watkins, deputy chief veterinary officer for Wales, said: “The cases identified in Gwynedd are from animals brought into Wales."

“We will apply measures to stop the disease spreading from these three sheep and our aim remains to keep Wales free of bluetongue".

“It is important to talk to your vet and practice safe-sourcing of livestock, to protect our herds and flocks and keep any further disease out of Wales."

“I would urge all farmers and others who keep ruminants and camelids to be vigilant for the signs of Bluetongue and to report any suspect cases to APHA immediately."

“We have been raising awareness of the disease with vets and industry and appreciate their help in communicating the risks to animal keepers in Wales.”

Earlier this year, farmers were urged to be vigilant for signs of bluetongue, after the first case of the new strain was found in Kent last November.

Any suspect cases must be reported immediately to the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA).

Further information about the clinical signs of bluetongue can be found on the Welsh Government website.