Bluetongue confirmed in Northern Ireland cattle herd
Further testing will be conducted on farms within the 20km Temporary Control Zone.
The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) has confirmed two cases of bluetongue in cattle on a premises in County Down.
Investigations have also revealed a further 44 cattle which could be infected with the viral disease.
Although bluetongue poses no threat to public health or food safety, it can severely damage the health of many hooved animals. Among its symptoms are ulcers, breathing difficulties, lameness and stillbirths.
The disease is non-contagious, but does spread through insects such as biting midges.
Biting midges are most active from April to November, with lower temperatures reducing the risk. Recent surveillance has identified active midges in the locality of the infected premises.
As a result of the diagnosis, DAERA has now set out plans to conduct further testing on farms within the 20km Temporary Control Zone (TCZ), which was introduced 29 November.
DAERA minister Andrew Muir has confirmed that he has briefed his Irish Government counterpart Martin Heydon on their findings. DAERA has also said it is engaging with Ulster Farmers Union and others in the wider industry.
Minister Muir said: “The results of this preliminary testing is undoubtedly a blow for the owners and staff on the farm which operates to the highest biosecurity standards and our thoughts are with them at this time. It is also hugely disappointing for the agri-food sector which up until now has enjoyed bluetongue free status in Northern Ireland.
“It is important that I reiterate that bluetongue poses no threat to public health nor to food safety. It is spread by midges and recent surveillance has identified active midges in the locality. However, given the impact on farm animals, it is a threat we must take seriously.”
Brian Dooher, DAERA chief veterinary officer, added: “While the affected farm remains restricted, the Temporary Control Zone will also remain in place to limit any possible spread to or from other holdings.
“The focus of DAERA vets is now on surveillance testing of herds within the 20km Temporary Control Zone to ascertain if there has been further infection in livestock outside the holding.”
Farmers within the TCZ are urged to familiarise themselves with restrictions and remain vigilant for signs of bluetongue in flocks or herds. Any concerns should be reported to a local Divisional Veterinary Office or to the DAERA helpline (0300 200 7840).
Image © mark gusev/Shutterstock.com
Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.
