A second cow has tested positive for bluetongue virus (BTV-3) on the same farm as the first case that was confirmed in Co Wexford.

The first case of bluetongue in the Republic of Ireland was traced back to this farm on Saturday morning when factory testing showed a positive result in a suckler cow for the virus.

A blood sample collected from the first suckler cow, which was due to be culled, detected bluetongue antibodies. Subsequently, additional animals from this herd were blood sampled for testing and the second case was detected.

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These animals were bred on the farm and were not imported. The likely source of incursion, according to the Department of Agriculture, is by infected midges blown across the Irish Sea.

The Department has restricted this farm in terms of movements. However, no neighbouring farms are affected at this time due to the low transmission risk associated with current environmental temperatures.

Bluetongue virus is spread by infected biting midges, which are present in Ireland and are generally most active between April and November.

“The replication of the virus can only occur in the midge in temperatures above 12-15°C. Spread of the virus is less likely to occur in winter and early spring months,” the Department said.

“Ongoing surveillance is being carried out to ensure early detection in additional herds. However, vigilance is critical to detect any cases promptly before the virus can replicate and become established in local livestock and midge populations,” it added.

Vaccines

Three bluetongue vaccines have been permitted for use in Ireland. These include Syvazul BTV 3 (sheep), Bluevac 3 (sheep and cattle) and Bultavo 3 (sheep and cattle). Bultavo 3 is the only vaccine currently in stock in Ireland, according to the Department of Agriculture.

Farmers have been urged to report any suspect bluetongue cases to their local regional veterinary office or via the national disease emergency hotline on 01- 492-8026 at any time.

There are no food safety or human health risks from bluetongue. Milk and meat are safe to consume.