A suspected outbreak of botulism on a farm in Co Louth has been reported to the Department of Agriculture.

The Irish Farmers Journal understands the farm in question is a dairy farm and that a number of cows have died suddenly as a result. It is understood the outbreak may have been caused by poultry litter that was spread on a neighbouring tillage farm.

The Department said once notified of an outbreak, officials routinely liaise with the relevant farmers, examine the circumstances that led to the incident and advise on measures that may be appropriate for the farmer to take.

Toxin

Botulism is caused after animals ingest a toxin known as Clostridium botulinum. The disease is characterised by progressive muscle weakness (paralysis), initially affecting the back legs. Affected animals may be weak, stagger about or go down.

The bacteria is generally found in dead carcases of birds. Poultry litter becomes a risk because of the potential contamination with dead birds.

The Department said it has been proactive in disseminating information to the farming community about botulism and has published guidelines to minimise the risk of botulism outbreaks. The guidelines can be found here.