Preliminary results of testing carried out by DAERA on a Co Down
herd, where two suspected cases of Bluetongue virus were recently
identified and confirmed as BTV-3, have revealed suspected
presence in a further 44 cattle.
DAERA Minister has expressed disappointment
in the preliminary results of the tests from a holding near
Bangor and has confirmed plans are in place for further testing
on other farms in the 20km Temporary Control Zone (TCZ) that was
introduced on Saturday 29 November.
While Bluetongue does not have any effect on human health or food
safety, it is nevertheless a non-contagious, insect-borne, viral
disease that affects ruminants, such as cattle, sheep, goats,
deer, llamas and alpacas.
With the Department focused on containing the spread of the
virus, 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.
“Due to the implications for farming throughout this
island, I have spoken to my Irish Government counterpart Martin
Heydon today and have briefed him on what we have learned so far
and the measures we are taking. DAERA has also engaged the Ulster
Farmers Union and the wider industry and my officials are in
constant contact with their counterparts in the Republic of
Ireland, UK Government, and the Scottish and Welsh
governments.”
Bluetongue is primarily transmitted through biting midges and
affects cattle and sheep as well as goats, deer, llamas and
alpacas. Biting midges are most active from April to November and
the potential for spread depends on climatic conditions and wind
patterns with lower temperatures significantly reducing the risk.
Chief Veterinary Officer Brian Dooher 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.
“As that testing takes place, it is essential farmers continue to
work closely with DAERA in the coming days, as we try to
understand if further spread has occurred.
“Farmers in the Temporary Control Zone should familiarise
themselves with the restrictions that have been introduced - the
details of which are available on the Bluetongue pages of the
DAERA website - and they should stick rigidly to the measures in
place. Farmers should be extra vigilant for any signs of the
virus in their flocks or herds. Should you have any concerns,
please contact your local Divisional Veterinary Office or to the
DAERA helpline on 0300 200 7840.”
Notes to editors:
- DAERA'S Disease Control Framework for Northern Ireland (NI)
for Bluetongue virus (BTV-3) can be accessed at: https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/publications/bluetongue-disease-control-framework.
- The Temporary Control Zone declaration issued by DAERA on 29
November is available at: https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/publications/declaration-temporary-control-zone-tcz.
This contains a map that enables farmers to confirm if they are
impacted.
- England and Wales both have implemented restriction zones
with necessary disease control measures in place Northern Ireland
has mirrored this approach, with restrictions applied at the
affected farm and surrounding area in County Down.
- The General License for Movement of Animals Direct to
Slaughter in the Temporary Control Zone can be accessed at:
https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/publications/btv38-movement-general-licence-direct-slaughter.
- Information on the trade implications of the Bluetongue
outbreak can viewed at: https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/topics/exporting-animals-and-animal-products-northern-ireland-gb-eu-and-third-countries-including-guidance-and-application-point-daera-export-certificate-system-decs.
- BTV-3 was first detected in the Netherlands in September 2023
and has spread across Europe since then with confirmation of the
disease in the east of England coming in November
2023. Additional advice on BTV-3, including the clinical
signs can be accessed at: https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/bluetongue.
