Testing to start on farms following detection of bluetongue

Testing at 20 farms across Northern Ireland will commence this week after the detection of bluetongue virus (BTV-3). The virus, transmitted by midges, poses no risk to human health or food safety but can affect cloven-hoofed animals such as sheep and cattle.

The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (Daera) confirmed that surveillance at an abattoir revealed the virus in two cows from a farm near Bangor, County Down. In response, a temporary 20km control zone was established at 21:00 BST on Saturday.

Daera veterinary officer Ignatius McKeown stated that farms within this zone will undergo random testing to assess the virus's spread. We aim to have as many of these farms tested by the end of the week, he said. He added that while organizing the testing takes time, the department is working as quickly as possible.

Clandeboye Estate reported that routine testing indicated possible bluetongue antibodies in two animals formerly part of their herd. They notified Daera immediately and are cooperating with veterinary authorities for further investigation.

Since July, Northern Ireland has aligned with the rest of the UK in allowing pre-emptive vaccination against the virus. Biting midges, the primary vector, are most active from April to November. Spread largely depends on climate and wind, with colder temperatures significantly reducing risk.

Mr. McKeown emphasized the importance of vaccination, noting that animals should be immunized well in advance of warmer months when midges become more active. The high-risk period begins in April and May, and animals must be protected before then, he said. At present, the number of midges is low, so the likelihood of transmission remains limited.

Bluetongue virus can affect cattle, goats, sheep, deer, and camelids like llamas and alpacas. Symptoms include mouth and facial sores, difficulty swallowing and breathing, fever, lameness, and in some cases, foetal deformities or stillbirths. The disease is notifiable, and any suspected cases must be reported to a vet, local divisional veterinary office, or directly to Daera.

The current outbreak traces back to the Netherlands in 2023, which caused the deaths of tens of thousands of sheep. Midges carried the virus to south-east England, although the severity of BTV-3 infections varies, with some animals recovering without significant symptoms. Farmers remain concerned about the potential spread of the disease, according to government officials.

Author: Sophia Brooks