Bluetongue suspected in Northern Ireland

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. File picture.

Department vets in Northern Ireland are investigating a suspected case of Bluetongue virus at a farm near Bangor, Co Down.

Results from DAERA's active surveillance for Bluetongue have indicated the presence of the disease in two cows.

A 20km Temporary Control Zone (TCZ) was introduced with immediate effect on November 29, 2025. Moves of susceptible species (cattle, sheep, goats, deer and llamas/alpacas) on or off premises within the TCZ are now prohibited whilst officials carry out further investigations. Moves direct to slaughter are permitted under a general licence available on the DAERA website.

Northern Agriculture Minister Andrew Muir said while the suspect cases are of great concern, it is essential all producers impacted by the control measures play their part in limiting the potential for further spread of the disease.

"While there was always a potential for Bluetongue to arrive here, given its prevalence in Britain and the EU, we must now do all we can to protect our livestock and limit the spread of the disease," Mr Muir said. "Members of the public should be reassured the virus does not have any impact on people or food safety.

"In the face of these suspected cases, my officials are taking all the necessary steps to protect the agri-food industry. I urge everyone in the industry to play their part as well and especially appeal to those in the Temporary Control Zone to follow the restrictions.

My department is working closely with all stakeholders, including colleagues in GB and the Republic of Ireland, to monitor the situation.”

Northern Ireland Chief Veterinary Officer, Brian Dooher, urged farmers to source their stock responsibly and be vigilant for the signs of disease.

“Bluetongue virus is unpredictable and can spread rapidly through and between flocks and herds," he said. "Colleagues have been preparing for a possible incursion of this disease and have been working closely with our colleagues in the Republic of Ireland to ensure a coordinated response in tackling any incursion.

"The spread of Bluetongue could have a significant impact on livestock and the rural economy."

"We will find the disease, if it is here"

Republic of Ireland Agriculture Minister Martin Heydon said he would engage closely with Mr Muir on the issue to ensure a "collaborative and supportive approach" across the island.

“The news of a suspect bluetongue outbreak in Northern Ireland is unwelcome. My thoughts are first and foremost with the affected farm family, and those farmers in the locality who will be worried about their own herds now.

This development has potentially serious implications. If the disease becomes established in one part of the island, it will be that much easier for it to spread, with consequences for animal health and welfare, and financial and emotional stress for farmers. However, I must emphasise that bluetongue does not have any implications for human health or food safety."

Explaining the next steps to take, Mr Heydon said: “It is important to note that, because bluetongue is spread by midges, disease spread is much less likely in the winter and early spring months. I am taking firm action now to carry out enhanced and targeted surveillance to find the disease, if it is here.” 

These actions will include on-farm surveillance blood sampling of cattle and sheep; testing livestock submitted to Regional Veterinary Laboratories; sampling of cattle routinely slaughtered at meat plants; and encouraging farmers and vets to report any suspect cases to their Regional Veterinary Office.

What is Bluetongue?

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.

Symptoms include fever, swelling of the head and face, red and/or swollen eyes and mouth, and crusty lesions or ulcers around the muzzle and nostrils. Other signs can be lethargy, drooling, lameness, and a drop in milk production.

The BTV-3 strain of the virus 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.

A restricted zone was extended to cover the whole of England in July.

While the virus does not have any effect on people or food safety, it can have a devastating impact on animals infected and trade.