Farmers in the north have been urged to “exercise vigilance” following confirmation of the first case of bluetongue virus (BTV) in Wales.
Agriculture Minister Andrew Muir said a BTV “incursion to Northern Ireland would have a significant impact on livestock and the rural economy”.
The BTV case in Wales came to light on Saturday. It was linked to the importation of animals from the east of England.
Bluetongue is caused by a virus spread by midges. It affects sheep, cattle, goats and deer, and can also spread to llamas and alpacas.
Andrew Muir has called on farmers in the north to “source animals responsibly”.
He said the main risk of bluetongue entering the north was through the importation of infected animals.
DAERA has urged all farmers to exercise vigilance and to source animals responsibly following the first confirmation of Bluetongue Virus (BTV) in Wales. More info: https://t.co/PjcVTSgjIn pic.twitter.com/XYqQpyFC4C
— DAERA (@daera_ni) September 28, 2024
“Bluetongue does not affect human health or food safety however an incursion to Northern Ireland would have a significant impact on livestock and the rural economy,” he added.
“I ask that farmers maintain vigilant for signs of the disease reporting any suspicions to the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) immediately.
“This ongoing spread of the disease across England, including the case now confirmed in Wales from imported animals, further highlights the importance of also sourcing animals responsibly”.
Suspect cases of BTV can be reported he DAERA Helpline on 0300 200 7840 or by contacting the local DAERA direct veterinary office. Farmers should also isolate suspect animals indoors.
Further information on BTV, including clinical signs and questions and answers can be obtained from the DAERA website.
