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NI farmers warned of bluetongue risk
“One of the main risks of bluetongue entering Northern Ireland is from importing infected animals” – Andrew Muir.
Cases in Wales highlight risk of importing infected animals, minister says.

Northern Ireland’s Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) has urged farmers to be vigilant and source animals responsibly after bluetongue virus serotype 3 (BTV-3) was detected in Wales for the first time.

The cases in Wales were found in three sheep which had been moved from an area in the East of England where the virus is circulating.

In addition to the cases in Wales, there have now been more than 100 cases in England. On 30 September, the restricted zone was extended to include part of Hampshire after a case was identified close to the edge of the restricted zone in West Sussex.

Andrew Muir, minister of agriculture, environment and rural affairs, said: “One of the main risks of bluetongue entering Northern Ireland is from importing infected animals.

“Bluetongue does not affect human health or food safety, however an incursion to Northern Ireland would have a significant impact on livestock and the rural economy.

“I ask that farmers maintain vigilant for signs of the disease reporting any suspicions to DAERA immediately. This ongoing spread of the disease across England, including the case now confirmed in Wales from imported animals, further highlights the importance of also sourcing animals responsibly.”

Bluetongue is a notifiable disease. In Northern Ireland, suspected cases should be reported to the DAERA Helpline on 0300 200 7840 or by contacting the local DAERA Direct Veterinary Office. In England, suspected cases should be reported on 03000 200 301 and in Wales on 03003 038 268. In Scotland, suspected cases should be reported to the local field services office.

Image © Shutterstock

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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.