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Bluetongue virus confirmed on County Down farm
Bluetongue virus has been confirmed in three sheep on a farm in Kilkeel, County Down, the first case reported in Northern Ireland this season. The disease is spread by biting midges and affects livestock, but officials say it poses no risk to people or food safety.
No new movement restrictions or disease control zones will be introduced because the virus has been present in Northern Ireland since November 2025. Officials urged farmers to watch for symptoms, report suspected cases, maintain biosecurity and consider vaccination. The article says cases have also risen elsewhere, with 2,950 in England, 512 in Wales and 57 in Scotland; a mild winter may have helped more disease-carrying midges survive.
In short
- Bluetongue was found in three sheep in County Down.
- No new movement restrictions are planned.
- Officials urge vigilance; meat and milk remain safe.
Environment Health Medicine Science