The Schmallenberg virus is now affecting counties Galway, Mayo and Roscommon.

Regional veterinary labs (RVLs) have reported an increase in the number of suspected Schmallenberg virus (SBV) cases in aborted lambs, in particular, and calves submitted during January.

Suspect cases submitted to Sligo and Athlone RVLs had birth deformities that are very suggestive of Schmallenberg infection in ewes and cows during pregnancy, a spokesperson for the Department of Agriculture said.

“The new counties involved tend to confirm observations by RVLs in autumn 2017 of animals showing antibodies to SBV in more northerly areas,” the spokesperson said.

Earlier this month, the Schmallenberg-affected area increased to include counties Cavan, Leitrim and Sligo. In Northern Ireland, cases of Schmallenberg have been confirmed in counties Fermanagh and Tyrone.

Regional vet labs continue to offer free post-mortem examinations and Schmallenberg screening for deformed ruminant foetuses and newborn animals, where SBV is suspected, supported by virology division in Backweston.

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