NI farmers urged to watch livestock closely after bluetongue case confirmed

Northern Ireland farmers are being urged to watch their livestock closely for signs of bluetongue after the disease was confirmed in an animal in County Wexford.

The case, involving an unvaccinated heifer, is the first detected in the Republic of Ireland during the 2026/27 bluetongue season.

No cases have been confirmed in Northern Ireland this season, but the Ulster Farmers’ Union has warned that the infection’s arrival south of the border underlines the continuing threat to farms here.

What farmers should look for

Bluetongue is a notifiable viral disease affecting cattle, sheep and other ruminants. It is primarily spread by biting midges rather than through direct contact between animals.

The disease does not affect people or food safety, but it can cause serious illness in livestock and lead to animal movement restrictions and wider disruption for the agricultural industry.

Possible clinical signs include:

• a high temperature

• lameness

• swelling around the head and neck

• excessive salivation

• nasal discharge

• sores inside the mouth

• stiffness or reluctance to move

• swelling around the hooves

UFU deputy president Clement Lynch said:

“The confirmation of Bluetongue in the South is a concern and serves as a reminder that the disease remains a very real threat to our livestock sector.

“While Northern Ireland has no confirmed cases, it is important that farmers exercise strict vigilance, keep a close eye on their animals for signs and symptoms and follow guidelines to protect their livestock as best they can.

“Even without cases in NI, farmers are already feeling the knock-on effects. Restrictions across parts of Great Britain have made livestock movements more complicated and added pressure through extra paperwork, testing requirements and uncertainty around trade.

“Northern Ireland’s livestock industry is closely connected with Great Britain, the Republic of Ireland and international export markets, so developments elsewhere can have a direct impact on local farms.”

Cases continue to rise across Britain

The warning comes during a sharp rise in BTV-3 infections across Great Britain.

The latest UK Government figures record 942 confirmed premises during the 2026/27 season: 811 in England, 110 in Wales and 21 in Scotland. Northern Ireland remains at zero.

A further 2,360 potential cases were under investigation in Great Britain, with many of this season’s confirmed infections involving sheep.

The number of confirmed premises has risen significantly since late August, demonstrating how quickly the situation is developing during the peak period for midge activity.

Northern Ireland recorded five confirmed BTV-3 cases during the previous 2025/26 season.

Early reporting ‘crucial’

Mr Lynch said regular checks and prompt reporting remained essential.

“As we navigate through peak 2026/27 Bluetongue season, now is the time for farmers to be particularly vigilant. Good biosecurity and regular monitoring of livestock remain our best line of defence.

“If farmers notice anything unusual, they shouldn’t take chances. Contact your private vet or DAERA straight away. Early reporting is crucial in helping to protect animal health and limit the spread of disease.

“Farmers should be aware of the clinical signs of Bluetongue, which can include a high temperature, lameness, swelling around the head and neck, excessive salivation and nasal discharge. Affected animals may also develop sores in the mouth and become stiff or reluctant to move due to swelling around the hooves.”

Bluetongue is a notifiable disease, meaning suspected cases must be reported immediately rather than waiting to see whether an animal’s condition improves.

Farmers who have concerns should contact their private veterinary practitioner or their local DAERA Direct office. DAERA can be contacted on 0300 200 7840.

The developing position means farmers should continue checking livestock regularly and keep up to date with official animal movement and disease-control guidance, particularly if moving animals between Northern Ireland, Great Britain or the Republic of Ireland.