Northern Ireland farmers urged to be vigilant as cases of bluetongue rise

Stormont Agriculture Minister Andrew Muir said, while no cases have yet been confirmed in the region, he encouraged farmers to vaccinate their livestock.

Cattle, sheep, goats, deer, llamas and alpacas are the animals at risk of bluetongue virus (BTV).

Mr Muir said there has been 1,600 confirmed cases in Great Britain since July 1, a “significant change from the previous outbreak season, when 348 cases were confirmed in Britain and the clinical signs of disease were less severe”.

“Furthermore, the Irish Republic this season has confirmed eight cases of BTV-3 in counties Wexford, Wicklow, Kildare and Louth,” he said.

“The surge in cases in Britain, together with the recent detections in Ireland and the increased severity of clinical signs is concerning.

“While no cases of bluetongue have been detected in Northern Ireland during this season, it is possible the disease, which affects fertility and overall productivity on farms, could already be present in herds without animals exhibiting noticeable signs at this stage.

“As a result, I and my officials believe there is a strong possibility clinical cases will emerge over the next month.”

Mr Muir’s department said while there are no risks to public health or food safety and meat and dairy products remain safe to eat, BTV can have devastating impacts on impacted herds.

Clinical signs of the disease can include lesions, sores and ulcerations affecting the nose, eyes, mouth, gums and dental pads, as well as fever, breathing difficulties, loss of appetite, lethargy, abortion, stillbirths and birth deformities in offspring.

A number of suspect cases have been reported in recent weeks in Northern Ireland.

However, all have subsequently been ruled out following laboratory testing.

Mr Muir added: “Given the significant increase in cases in GB and the recent confirmation of cases in Ireland, I would again urge farmers to discuss their business concerns with their private veterinary practitioner.

“BTV-3 vaccination remains the only preventative tool to help reduce the impact of this disease.

“It takes approximately six weeks for cattle and three weeks for sheep to develop full immunity following vaccination.

“My officials continue to respond to all reported suspect cases as a priority.

“Active surveillance is ongoing at abattoirs; alongside post-import testing of susceptible animals imported from mainland EU countries.

“Safe and responsible sourcing of animals remains of paramount importance.”

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.