New suspected Bluetongue case detected as DAERA extends control measures

A new suspected case of Bluetongue has been identified on a farm near Greyabbey, prompting the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) to impose a second 20km Temporary Control Zone (TCZ) in Co Down.

The case was detected during routine surveillance testing within the existing TCZ, established on 29 November 2025 around a holding near Bangor where the Bluetongue BTV-3 virus was first discovered.

According to DAERA, the latest controls will take effect from 18:00 on 6 December 2025, covering an additional zone around the Greyabbey farm.

Movements of susceptible species—including cattle, sheep, goats, deer, llamas and alpacas—on or off farms within both TCZs are now prohibited, except for direct-to-slaughter moves permitted under a general licence available via the department’s website.

‘Very disappointing’ development, says Minister Muir

DAERA Minister Andrew Muir acknowledged the concerns of the local farming community and the ongoing pressures caused by the spread of the virus.

He said:

“The emergence of this suspect case in the existing Temporary Control Zone is very disappointing - especially for the farmer concerned.

“The decision to now introduce a second TCZ is an essential measure. This suspect case serves as another reminder of why farmers need to be extra vigilant for clinical signs of Bluetongue in their flocks or herds – details of which are on the DAERA website and the Department’s social media accounts.

“Once again, I would remind members of the public that Bluetongue does not have any impact on human health or food safety. It does however pose risks to cloven hoofed animals - particularly sheep which can show the most severe symptoms.

“I urge farmers in the second TCZ to familiarise themselves with the animal movement restrictions that will operate in their area and to follow them closely.

“As vets continue their investigations, I and my officials will continue to work closely with stakeholders in the agri-food industry, as well as our counterparts in the Irish, UK Scottish and Welsh Governments as we respond to a rapidly evolving situation.”

Disease spread driven by biting midges

Bluetongue is transmitted primarily by biting midges, most active from April to November. Climatic conditions and wind patterns play a major role in determining how far and how quickly the virus may spread.

The disease affects a wide range of cloven-hoofed animals including cattle, sheep, goats, deer, llamas and alpacas. While it poses no risk to human health or food safety, Bluetongue can have serious animal welfare and economic implications for the livestock sector.

CVO: Farmers must remain vigilant

DAERA’s Chief Veterinary Officer, Brian Dooher, warned that the virus remains unpredictable and urged farmers to act swiftly if they suspect symptoms.

He said:

“Bluetongue is an unpredictable virus that is spread by midges through and between flocks and herds.

“The spread of Bluetongue has a significant impact on livestock, the agri-food sector and the rural economy.

“That is why, as a result of the Disease Control Framework we launched in June, DAERA continues to move rapidly to put in place control measures. I would urge everyone in the farming industry to continue to play their part in protecting our farms by remaining vigilant and would especially urge those in the TCZs to follow the restrictions.

“It is also imperative that keepers who suspect an outbreak report any symptoms immediately to their vet, local Divisional Veterinary Office or to the DAERA helpline on 0300 200 7840.”

DAERA continues to work with industry bodies and counterparts across the UK and Ireland as investigations into the latest suspected case continue.