Bluetongue: Northern Ireland farmers face ‘serious consequences’ over disease – Andrew Muir

Dr Mike Reynolds, a senior clinical director at CVS Farm Vets NI, said there is a “real and present” danger following the discovery.

“I think it shouldn’t be underestimated that level of anxiety within the farming community,” he told BBC Radio Ulster’s Evening Extra programme.

“Because these outbreaks do result in prolonged restrictions on movement and trade, and obviously have financial impacts on business, but also has to be taken into consideration farmer’s concerns for their livestock and the disease incursions.”

He said that vaccines cost about £2.50 per dose, and encouraged livestock farmers to “consider and discuss” their use.

The Chair of Medicines at Veterinary Ireland Conor Geraghty told RTÉ that he’s concerned about bluetongue spreading to the Republic of Ireland.

“The theory is that if it’s not contained in Northern Ireland, it would spread during the fly season late next spring and early summer,” he said.

He added that the vaccine is not currently available in the Republic.

Ireland’s Minister for Agriculture Martin Heydon said it could have “potentially serious implications” if the virus spreads across the border.

“If the disease becomes established in one part of the island, it will be that much easier for it to spread, with consequences for animal health and welfare, and financial and emotional stress for farmers.”