Blue Tongue case in NI ‘not unexpected’ but farmers should still be vigilant
The Ulster Farmers Union has said the arrival of Blue Tongue in Northern Ireland was not unexpected but it has urged farmers to be vigilant for signs of the virus.
The virus was detected in three sheep on a farm in Co Down, Stormont Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs Minister Andrew Muir said on Friday.
The confirmation is the first detected case in Northern Ireland during the 2026/27 season. DAERA has stated that no additional movement restrictions or disease control zones will be introduced in response to the case.
UFU deputy president Clement Lynch said, “The confirmation of Bluetongue in County Down is disappointing and will understandably concern livestock farmers.
"However, given the significant spread of BTV-3 across Great Britain and the Republic of Ireland in recent months, unfortunately it is not entirely unexpected.
“Our message to farmers is to remain calm, vigilant and continue to follow the veterinary advice.
"We have been highlighting the growing threat from BTV-3 throughout this season, and this confirmation reinforces how important it is that farmers regularly check their livestock and report anything suspicious immediately.”
“Bluetongue can have a serious impact on animal health, particularly in sheep, and farmers should familiarise themselves with the clinical signs.
“These can include a high temperature, lameness, swelling around the head and neck, excessive salivation, nasal discharge and sores around the mouth.
“It is also important to reassure consumers that Bluetongue poses no threat to human health or food safety. Northern Ireland continues to produce safe, high-quality meat and dairy products.”
The UFU has consistently encouraged farmers considering vaccination to discuss the circumstances of their individual farm with their private veterinary practitioner.
Mr Lynch continued, “Farmers should speak to their vet about the appropriate measures for their individual farm, including vaccination.
"Equally, livestock must continue to be sourced responsibly and farmers need to consider disease risk when purchasing or moving animals. The UFU will remain in close contact with DAERA as the situation develops.
“This is a time for vigilance rather than alarm. Farmers have a crucial role to play by monitoring their animals, reporting suspected disease quickly and following veterinary and DAERA guidance.”
Cattle, sheep, goats, deer, llamas and alpacas are the animals at risk of the insect-borne virus.
The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (Daera) has said it is a disease of animals, not humans, so there are no human or public health issues.
Chief veterinary officer Brian Dooher said: “As BTV-3 was confirmed in Northern Ireland in November 2025, further disease control measures such as movement restrictions and disease control zones will not be applied in response to this case.
“Active surveillance is ongoing at abattoirs alongside post-import testing of susceptible animals imported from mainland EU countries.
“I also want to stress the importance of safe and responsible sourcing of animals.”
Anyone who suspects bluetongue in their animals should report it immediately to Daera on 0300 200 7840 or their local Daera direct regional office and seek veterinary advice.