Bluetongue (BTV-3) confirmed 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 Great Britain 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.”

Ulster Unionist Deputy Leader and Chair of the Assembly’s Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs Committee, Diana Armstrong MLA, has urged farmers to be vigilant.

Diana Armstrong said: “Unwelcome news, though not unexpected given what has been going on across Great Britain and the Republic this season.

“The main thing tonight is that farmers know what to look for and who to ring. It affects cattle, sheep, goats, deer and alpacas. Anyone with any suspicion at all should be on to their Divisional Veterinary Office or the DAERA helpline on 0300 200 7840.

“For anyone worried reading this, Bluetongue is no risk to human health and none to food safety. Milk and meat are perfectly safe.

“Biosecurity and being careful where you source animals matter more than ever now. The colder weather is on our side, because the midges that carry this are less active, and that gives us a bit of time to get ahead of it before next season.”