According to Animal Health and Welfare NI, cases of BVD continue to emerge in herds that have not previously recorded positive results. \ Donal O'Leary
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The areas covered by divisional veterinary offices (DVOs) in Newry and in Armagh have the highest levels of bovine viral diarrhoea (BVD) and collectively account for one-third of all affected herds in NI.
According to Animal Health and Welfare NI (AHWNI), approximately 500 herds across NI have had at least one BVD positive result in the last year, with the highest percentage of affected herds in Armagh DVO area and the lowest in Newtownards DVO.
However, restrictions put on BVD herds have had a marked impact, with only nine BVD positive cattle being retained in six herds for more than 28 days at the start of September 2025.
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This compares with 29 cattle being retained in 25 herds in September 2024.
Despite the decrease in infection pressure, AHWNI has urged farmers to ensure they maintain good boundary fences and vaccinate herds exposed to risks.
With reduced disease pressure, fewer animals will have natural immunity to the disease.
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The areas covered by divisional veterinary offices (DVOs) in Newry and in Armagh have the highest levels of bovine viral diarrhoea (BVD) and collectively account for one-third of all affected herds in NI.
According to Animal Health and Welfare NI (AHWNI), approximately 500 herds across NI have had at least one BVD positive result in the last year, with the highest percentage of affected herds in Armagh DVO area and the lowest in Newtownards DVO.
However, restrictions put on BVD herds have had a marked impact, with only nine BVD positive cattle being retained in six herds for more than 28 days at the start of September 2025.
This compares with 29 cattle being retained in 25 herds in September 2024.
Despite the decrease in infection pressure, AHWNI has urged farmers to ensure they maintain good boundary fences and vaccinate herds exposed to risks.
With reduced disease pressure, fewer animals will have natural immunity to the disease.
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