Bluetongue virus has been detected in cattle and sheep across several Irish counties, prompting renewed advice from the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) for farmers to remain vigilant. The latest findings include Ireland’s first recorded BTV-3 detection in an ovine animal and confirmed infections in Wexford, Wicklow, Kildare and other counties.
The disease does not pose a risk to human health or food safety. Meat and dairy products remain safe to consume, but bluetongue virus can cause serious illness, production losses and deaths among susceptible livestock, while also affecting international live-animal trade.
Bluetongue virus situation in Ireland
A dead ram in County Wexford tested positive by PCR for bluetongue virus serotype 3, marking the first reported BTV-3 detection in sheep in Ireland. Suspect animals in separate herds in Wexford, Wicklow and Kildare have also tested positive after displaying clinical signs.
DAFM reports that BTV has been detected in Counties Wexford, Wicklow, Laois, Louth, Monaghan, Kildare, Cork and Tipperary. Testing of cattle blood samples collected for other disease investigations is being used to identify wider areas where the virus may be present.
An unvaccinated Kildare cow showing signs including abortion tested positive, while a 16-month-old unvaccinated heifer from Wexford was positive following postmortem examination. Both infections occurred in 2026.
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How bluetongue spreads and which animals are affected
Bluetongue is a notifiable viral disease affecting ruminants and camelids. Sheep, cattle, goats, deer, llamas and alpacas can become infected. Transmission mainly occurs through infected Culicoides biting midges, which acquire the virus from one animal and pass it to another.
Midge activity is influenced by temperature, wind and weather conditions. Although transmission has traditionally been associated with April to November, milder winters and rising temperatures may extend the period of risk. The virus can also pass from an infected pregnant animal to its unborn offspring and may spread through semen, embryos and blood products.
Symptoms farmers should watch for
Sheep are more likely than cattle to develop noticeable clinical signs, although infected animals may show no symptoms. Possible signs include:
- Fever, lethargy and loss of appetite
- Reduced milk production
- Swelling of the face, lips or tongue
- Drooling and discharge from the eyes or nose
- Mouth, eye, teat or udder lesions
- Lameness, swollen legs or hoof problems
- Abortion, stillbirths or malformed offspring
- Breathing difficulties or death in severe cases
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What to do if bluetongue is suspected
Farmers should isolate suspected animals indoors immediately and contact DAFM without delay. During office hours, contact the local Regional Veterinary Office. Outside those hours, call the National Disease Emergency Hotline on 01 492 8026, which operates every day of the year.
Vaccination is also being promoted as a disease-control option. DAFM states that cattle generally take about six weeks and sheep about three weeks to develop full immunity after vaccination. Farmers should discuss suitability and timing with their private veterinary practitioner.
Trade implications and official guidance
Ireland’s loss of bluetongue-free status may affect movements of livestock to certain EU Member States and non-EU countries. However, DAFM says there are no general implications for exports of meat and dairy products to the EU, UK and most international markets. Farmers and exporters should check current certification requirements with their Regional Veterinary Office.
Official updates are published through gov.ie and DAFM. Other Irish public bodies, including the Health Service Executive (HSE), Revenue Commissioners and An Garda Síochána, are not responsible for bluetongue disease control; the lead authority is the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine.
Frequently asked questions
Can people catch bluetongue?
No. Bluetongue does not affect human health and does not make meat or dairy products unsafe.
What is the bluetongue serotype found in Ireland?
The reported Irish infections involve serotype 3, also known as BTV-3.
Should a suspected animal be moved?
No. Isolate the animal and contact DAFM or the appropriate veterinary authority before moving livestock.
The key message is clear: bluetongue virus requires rapid reporting, careful biosecurity and informed vaccination decisions. Livestock owners should monitor animals closely and follow the latest DAFM guidance as the seasonal midge risk continues.
Article/Image Courtesy: gov.ie
