Preliminary results of testing carried out on a Co Down farm have indicated the suspected presence of bluetongue in a further 44 cattle, the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) has confirmed.

On the same holding, two suspected cases of bluetongue virus recently identified have been confirmed as BTV-3.

Plans have been put in place for further testing on other farms in the 20km Temporary Control Zone (TCZ) that was introduced on Saturday 29 November.

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Bluetongue is primarily transmitted through biting midges and affects cattle and sheep as well as goats, deer, llamas and alpacas.

The Department has confirmed that recent surveillance has identified active midges in the locality.

With the Department focused on containing the spread of the virus, Minister for Agriculture Andrew Muir said that the results of this preliminary testing is undoubtedly a blow for the owners and staff on the farm which operates to the "highest biosecurity" standards.

“It is important that I reiterate that Bluetongue poses no threat to public health nor to food safety.

However, given the impact on farm animals, it is a threat we must take seriously," Muir said.

Clinical signs of bluetongue disease in cattle include fever, lethargy, drooling, and nasal and eye discharge. Other common signs are swelling of the face, lips, and tongue, which can affect breathing.

“Due to the implications for farming throughout this island, I have spoken to my Irish Government counterpart Martin Heydon today and have briefed him on what we have learned so far and the measures we are taking. DAERA has also engaged the Ulster Farmers Union and the wider industry and my officials are in constant contact with their counterparts in the Republic of Ireland, UK government, and the Scottish and Welsh governments,"Muir said.

Biting midges are most active from April to November and the potential for spread depends on climatic conditions and wind patterns with lower temperatures significantly reducing the risk.

Chief Veterinary Officer Brian Dooher added: “While the affected farm remains restricted, the Temporary Control Zone will also remain in place to limit any possible spread to or from other holdings. The focus of DAERA vets is now on surveillance testing of herds within the 20km Temporary Control Zone to ascertain if there has been further infection in livestock outside the holding.

“As that testing takes place, it is essential farmers continue to work closely with DAERA in the coming days, as we try to understand if further spread has occurred,"

Farmers in the Temporary Control Zone have been urged to familiarise themselves with the restrictions that have been introduced and they should stick rigidly to the measures in place.

Farmers should be extra vigilant for any signs of the virus in their flocks or herds.

Should you have any concerns, please contact your local Divisional Veterinary Office or to the DAERA helpline on 0300 200 7840.”