Following reports of increasing levels of clinical bluetongue in the UK, farmers must remain vigilant as Ireland enters the peak midge activity season.
That was the warning from Irish Farmers’ Association (IFA) animal health chair David Hall.
Recent high temperatures have been followed by damp weather, which has created ideal conditions for midge activity, increasing the risk of disease transmission, the IFA said.
"We are now in the high vector season, and farmers need to be aware that the risk of bluetongue transmission has increased significantly," Hall cautioned.
“The recent spell of warm weather followed by rain provides ideal conditions for the midges that spread this disease.”
Dramatic increase
There has been a significant increase in the number of bluetongue cases reported in England, and a notable increase in clinically sick animals reported in comparison to previous years.
Hall expressed concern about the increase of clinical disease in both sheep and cattle and said it is different from last year, when the main impacts of the disease were fertility problems and defects in calves and lambs.
“The increase in animals showing clinical signs is a worrying development and highlights the importance of farmers remaining alert for signs of the disease," he said.
Vaccination
He acknowledged the strong uptake of vaccination by farmers here and highlighted that this proactive approach has significantly strengthened preparedness.
He encouraged farmers who have not yet vaccinated their animals to consult with their private veterinary practitioner.
“Vaccination is the most effective measure available to protect animals and reduce the impact of this disease," Hall said.
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