ANNEX V U.K. Criteria for the definition of the seasonally vector-free period (referred to in Article 9(3))

2. Specific criteria U.K.

(a) No bluetongue virus circulation within the epidemiologically relevant geographical area, as demonstrated by bluetongue surveillance programmes or other evidence suggesting a halt in bluetongue virus. U.K.

(b) Cessation of vector and likely vector activity, as demonstrated through entomological surveillance as part of the bluetongue monitoring and/or surveillance programmes. U.K.

(c) Captures of Culicoides species proven or suspected to be the vectors of the serotype present in the epidemiologically relevant geographical area below a maximum threshold of vectors collected that shall be defined for the epidemiologically relevant geographical area. In the absence of sound evidence supporting the determination of the maximum threshold, total absence of Culicoides imicola specimens and less than five parous Culicoides per trap must be used. U.K.