Bluetongue has now spread widely across eastern England, with additional isolated cases detected recently in Somerset in south-west England and Gwynedd in north-west Wales.
The disease has also spread across continental Europe, including France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Denmark, and Norway.
Minister for Agriculture, Charlie McConalogue warned today that bluetongue poses a major threat to the Irish cattle and sheep industries, causing substantial losses to farmers and industry in countries which have experienced outbreaks.
He has reminded farmers to report any suspect cases to the Department promptly.
“It is clear that the risk of spread to Ireland has increased as the disease comes closer to our shores. Early detection of any outbreak in Ireland will be crucial to help us prevent onward spread. For that reason, I ask all farmers to report any suspect cases of bluetongue promptly. If we can detect and respond to an incursion at an early stage, we have a better chance of stopping its spread and protecting cattle and sheep across the country.”
He also said his Department is continuing to carry out a range of surveillance and risk-reducing activities, including increased active surveillance of higher risk animals, targeted surveillance, and awareness campaigns.
“I want to remind anyone involved in trading in and transport of livestock to and from affected areas and countries, to support these actions and work closely with their local Regional Veterinary Office.”
Bluetongue is a viral disease affecting cattle, sheep, goats, alpacas and other ruminants and camelids.
Bluetongue does not pose a food safety or public health risk. It is spread between animals by biting midges.
There are many different serotypes. Bluetongue virus 3 (BTV-3) is currently the most serious threat.
“It has been spreading rapidly across north-western Europe since last autumn. The high-risk period in Ireland runs from spring until late autumn when midges are most abundant.
“It is crucial to report any suspicion of bluetongue to the local Regional Veterinary Office (RVO) without delay,” he said.
