Bluetongue (BTV-3) confirmed on a farm in County Down
Date published:
DAERA Minister Andrew Muir has tonight confirmed that Bluetongue virus (BTV-3) has been detected in three sheep on a farm in County Down.
Confirming the first cases of BTV-3 in Northern Ireland this season, Minister Muir said: “While it is disappointing to see this confirmed case of BTV-3 in Northern Ireland, it is not unexpected, given the spread of BTV-3 across GB and Ireland this season. Continued vigilance and strict biosecurity measures remain of paramount importance and I would once again urge all farmers to report any suspicion of disease to DAERA.
“It is important that I reiterate that Bluetongue poses no threat to public health nor to food safety – milk and meat are safe to consume.”
Bluetongue affects cattle and sheep as well as goats, deer, llamas and alpacas and is primarily transmitted through infected biting midges which are most active from April to November.
The replication of the virus can only occur in the midge in temperatures above 12-15°C, with spread of the virus less likely to occur during the winter and early spring.
Chief Veterinary Officer Brian Dooher added: “As BTV-3 was confirmed in Northern Ireland in November 2025, further disease control measures such as movement restrictions and disease control zones will not be applied in response to this case.
“I would encourage farmers to be extra vigilant for any signs of the virus in their flocks or herds and report any suspect cases to DAERA. Active surveillance is ongoing at abattoirs alongside post-import testing of susceptible animals imported from mainland EU countries. I also want to stress the importance of safe and responsible sourcing of animals.”
Should you have any concerns, please contact your local Divisional Veterinary Office or the DAERA helpline on 0300 200 7840.
Notes to editors:
- DAERA’s Bluetongue Disease Control Framework is available at Bluetongue Disease Control Framework | Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs
- Bluetongue is a viral disease affecting ruminants such as cattle, sheep, goats and deer.
- The disease is spread by biting midges and does not pose a risk to human health or food safety.
- Livestock keepers should remain vigilant and report any suspicions immediately to DAERA on 0300 200 7840 or their local DAERA Direct Regional Office.
- Further information on BTV-3 clinical signs is available here.
- Further information on Bluetongue situation in Northern Ireland is available on the DAERA website.