NI farmers warned of bluetongue risk
“One of the main risks of bluetongue entering Northern Ireland is from importing infected animals” – Andrew Muir.
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.
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Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.
