NI farmers urged to stay alert as nearly 500 bluetongue cases confirmed in GB

Northern Ireland livestock farmers are being urged to remain vigilant for signs of bluetongue as cases of the disease rise sharply across Great Britain, with nearly 500 now confirmed and vaccine supplies coming under pressure.

The Ulster Farmers’ Union (UFU) has warned that an increase in cases in Northern Ireland could have serious consequences for livestock movements, farm businesses and the wider agricultural supply chain.

Nearly 1,000 individual animals have been infected in Great Britain, according to the UFU, while more than 2,000 potential cases remain under investigation.

Animals showing clinical signs

The 2026/27 bluetongue season began on 10 July and the UFU says there has been an important change from last year.

While most confirmed cases during the previous season were asymptomatic and detected through pre-movement testing, the majority this season have been identified after animals developed clinical signs.

Sheep are currently more likely to be identified showing symptoms, although farmers are being advised to remain alert across all susceptible livestock.

UFU deputy president Clement Lynch said:

“The unfolding situation in Great Britain is extremely concerning and serves as a stark reminder of the serious threat that bluetongue could pose to the Northern Ireland livestock sector.”

Concern over livestock trade

Restrictions remain in place on movements of livestock from Great Britain to Northern Ireland.

The UFU is particularly concerned about what could happen if the disease becomes more prevalent within Northern Ireland, warning that severe restrictions on movements back to Great Britain could be reinstated.

Mr Lynch said:

“Restrictions are still in place for movement of livestock to Northern Ireland from GB, and if bluetongue cases rise in NI, it would undoubtedly lead to the reinstatement of severe restrictions on movements back to the mainland, result in significant financial losses, and disrupt the agricultural supply chain.”

Derogations are currently in place for movements to and from the Republic of Ireland, but the UFU warned that trade could also be affected if cases or clinical signs increase.

Mr Lynch added:

“Derogations are in place for movement to/from ROI, but we need to remain mindful that an increase in cases or clinical signs could jeopardise this trade. With the first detection of BTV-3 cases in Scotland, UFU are continuing to monitor how the trade situation may evolve.”

Vaccine supplies under pressure

The rapid increase in cases is also putting pressure on bluetongue vaccine supplies.

According to the UFU, the sharp rise in demand means farmers could face waits of up to four weeks to obtain vaccines, with some manufacturers currently having no stock available.

Farmers considering vaccination are being advised to speak to their private veterinary practitioner about the most appropriate approach for their individual farm.

Mr Lynch said:

“Bluetongue vaccine supplies are under severe pressure in GB, with some manufacturers having no available stock at the moment. The UFU strongly urges any farmers considering vaccination to consult their private veterinary practitioner to determine the most appropriate course of action for their farm.”

Signs farmers should watch for

Clinical signs of bluetongue can include:

• high fever;

• lameness;

• inflammation of the mucous membranes of the mouth and nose;

• sores and ulceration;

• swelling of the head and neck;

• excessive salivation;

• nasal discharge; and

• stiffness or reluctance to move caused by swelling around the hooves.

Bluetongue is a notifiable disease, and farmers who suspect an animal may be affected are being urged to act immediately.

Mr Lynch said:

“Farmers must remain vigilant for the signs and symptoms of BTV-3, and any suspected cases should be reported immediately to their private veterinary practitioner. All advice relating to notifiable diseases must be strictly followed.”

With cases continuing to rise across Great Britain, the UFU says vigilance on individual farms will be important in reducing the risk to Northern Ireland’s livestock sector and the trade that depends upon it.

Mr Lynch added:

“It is vital that farmers act collectively to protect Northern Ireland’s livestock sector and safeguard our agricultural economy from this significant disease threat currently affecting much of Great Britain.”