All herd and flock keepers are being urged to source animals responsibly after a further Bluetongue case was detected in a sheep imported from France.

This follows the finding last month of Bluetongue virus in two cattle imported from France into Britain.

“While it is reassuring that the UK’s stringent post-import checks and robust disease surveillance procedures have again been effective, this second finding of the virus in recent weeks is a further reminder to farmers of the need to remain vigilant and highlights the risks of importing animals from disease-affected areas into their herds,” Northern Ireland’s Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr. Robert Huey said.

Bluetongue does not pose a threat to human health or food safety, but can impact farming productivity on affected premises.

Livestock importers are reminded to:

• Discuss their needs with a private veterinary surgeon and consider the risks and the health status of animals when sourcing stock from regions affected by Bluetongue virus.

• Consider what additional guarantees the seller can provide such as a pre-export test carried out to prove immunity to Bluetongue virus.

• Practise good biosecurity on their farm premises - https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/biosecurity

• Stay alert to any signs of the disease, such as mouth ulcers and drooling from the mouth and nose, and report to DAERA immediately.

Bluetongue is a virus spread by midges which transfer the virus from animal to animal. It affects animals such as cattle, goats, deer and sheep.

In sheep the clinical signs include:

• fever

• swelling of the head and neck

• lameness

• inflammation and ulceration of the mucous membrane of the mouth, nose and eyes

• drooling

• haemorrhages in the skin and other tissues

• respiratory problems, such as froth in the lungs and an inability to swallow

• high mortality rate

• discoloration and swelling of the tongue (rare)

Although Bluetongue usually causes no apparent illness in cattle or goats (it is possible that cattle will show no signs of illness) however clinical signs have included:

• nasal discharge

• swelling and ulceration of the mouth

• swollen teats

If you suspect the presence of the disease, contact your local Divisional Veterinary Office immediately.