Bluetongue antibodies found in two animals which were formerly part of the Clandeboye herd
Clandeboye Estate Yoghurt has said that a suspected Bluetongue case is connected to two animals that had formerly been part of the Clandeboye herd.
A statement from Clandeboye Estate Yoghurt on it’s Facebook page said that on Friday last a routine test confirmed the possible presence of the Bluetongue antibodies in two cows.
It continued: “The Department for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) were immediately notified and we are working closely with their veterinary team to carry out further investigations. The Bluetongue virus does not affect humans and has no impact on dairy products or food safety generally.
"The virus is transmitted by bites from infected midges - generally in warmer climates and during warmer weather. It has not been known to occur in Northern Ireland before and only recently in England and Wales. In the main it presents a risk to cattle, sheep, goats, deer, llamas and alpacas.
"Consistent with our continued commitment to the highest standards in terms of both food production and the welfare of our animals we will be carrying out further testing over the next few days.
"Until more is known we would encourage our fellow farming community members to review the guidance available on the DAERA website and remain vigilant,” the statement concluded.