"Bluetongue is a viral disease primarily affecting cattle and sheep, spread by tiny biting midges. While it does not affect humans or food safety, it can make animals very ill and has serious implications for livestock trade. DAERA, Northern Ireland's Agriculture Ministry, said results from its active surveillance programme indicated the presence of Bluetongue virus (BTV-3) in two cows on a holding near Bangor."
"The Department has moved swiftly to impose a 20km Temporary Control Zone (TCZ) around the affected farm from 9pm on 29 November, halting the movement of cattle, sheep, goats, deer and camelids on and off holdings within the area while further investigations take place. Direct moves to slaughter are permitted under general licence. The development marks the first suspected incursion of BTV-3 on the island, a strain that has swept across Europe in recent years and led to major disease control zones being established across Great Britain since 2023."
Bluetongue is a vector-borne viral disease of cattle and sheep transmitted by biting midges, causing severe illness in animals and significant trade impacts. Active surveillance detected Bluetongue virus serotype BTV-3 in two cows near Bangor. A 20km Temporary Control Zone was imposed from 9pm on 29 November, stopping movements of cattle, sheep, goats, deer and camelids on and off holdings within the area, with direct moves to slaughter permitted under general licence. This marks the first suspected BTV-3 incursion on the island, with BTV-3 having spread across Europe and prompted control zones in Great Britain since 2023. DAERA implemented rapid response measures under a Bluetongue Disease Control Framework, stated there is no risk to human health or food safety, and is coordinating with Great Britain and Republic of Ireland authorities. The Chief Veterinary Officer warned that the virus is unpredictable and can move quickly through flocks and herds.
Read at Irish Independent
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