Suspected Bluetongue Outbreak Confirmed in Co Down, Northern Ireland, Prompting Control Measures

First Suspected Bluetongue Case on Island of Ireland

The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) in Northern Ireland has confirmed the first suspected case of Bluetongue virus (BTV-3) on the island of Ireland. The suspected cases were identified in two cows at a holding near Bangor, Co Down, following routine surveillance. This development has raised significant concerns within the agri-food sector across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

Effective from 21:00 on Saturday, November 29, 2025, DAERA immediately implemented a 20km Temporary Control Zone (TCZ) around the affected premises. This measure prohibits the movement of susceptible species, including cattle, sheep, goats, deer, and llamas/alpacas, into or out of the zone, with exceptions only for animals moving directly to slaughter under a general license.

Understanding Bluetongue Virus (BTV-3)

Bluetongue is a viral disease that primarily affects ruminants such as sheep, cattle, goats, deer, and camelids. The virus is transmitted by certain species of biting midges (Culicoides spp.) and is not spread through direct animal-to-animal contact, except via the transplacental route.

While the virus poses no risk to human health or food safety, its impact on livestock can be severe. Symptoms vary by species and the specific strain of the virus, but in sheep, they can include:

• Fever
• Swelling of the head and neck
• Lameness
• Inflammation and ulceration of mucous membranes in the mouth, nose, and eyes
• Drooling
• A 'blue' or swollen tongue, though this is not always present

Cattle often show milder symptoms or can be asymptomatic carriers, but signs may include nasal discharge, mouth ulceration, swollen teats, lethargy, and reduced milk yield. The BTV-3 strain involved in this suspected outbreak was first detected in the Netherlands in September 2023 and has since spread across parts of Europe and Great Britain.

Swift Response and Control Measures

Northern Ireland's Agriculture Minister, Andrew Muir, stated that while testing is ongoing, it is 'highly likely' that Bluetongue is present in the region. He emphasized the importance of a rapid response, noting that DAERA had a Disease Control Framework in place since June, which enabled quick action. The Chief Veterinary Officer for Northern Ireland, Brian Dooher, made the decision to implement control measures based on preliminary results from the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI).

In addition to the TCZ, DAERA is increasing testing in slaughterhouses, deploying midge traps, and enhancing on-farm surveillance. As part of the restrictions, Saintfield Mart will also be closed. Minister Muir has engaged with his Irish counterpart, Martin Heydon, highlighting the critical need for close North-South cooperation to address the threat, as the island is considered 'one single epidemiological area'.

Potential Impact on the Agrifood Sector

The suspected outbreak carries 'very serious consequences' for the agri-food industry, according to Minister Muir. The virus can lead to reduced animal productivity, trade restrictions, and significant financial and emotional strain for farmers. The President of the Irish Farmers' Association, Francie Gorman, expressed disappointment, noting that the farming community had worked diligently to avoid such a scenario.

Farmers and livestock keepers are urged to remain vigilant for any signs of the disease and to report suspected cases immediately to their veterinarian or the DAERA helpline. While vaccination against Bluetongue is available, uptake has been relatively low, with the Minister encouraging farmers to consider it. The primary focus for authorities is now on the eradication of the virus to protect the livestock industry.