Northern Ireland livestock farmers are being urged to remain on alert as bluetongue cases continue to rise across Great Britain, with concerns mounting over the potential impact on livestock movements and trade.
The latest official figures available from Defra show 593 cases of BTV-3 in the UK during the 2026–27 season, including 556 in England, 29 in Wales and eight in Scotland. Northern Ireland currently has no cases this season.
The figures relate to premises where at least one animal has tested positive, rather than individual infected animals, but do not represent the real-time situation.
The Ulster Farmers’ Union ( UFU) has warned that the spread of the disease across Great Britain represents a significant threat to Northern Ireland’s livestock sector.
UFU deputy president Clement Lynch said: “The unfolding situation in Great Britain is extremely concerning and serves as a stark reminder of the serious threat that bluetongue could pose to the Northern Ireland livestock sector.”
Restrictions remain in place on livestock moving from Great Britain into Northern Ireland, while derogations are available for certain movements to and from the Republic of Ireland.
The UFU is concerned that any increase in cases or clinical disease in Northern Ireland could result in tighter movement controls, potentially creating significant disruption and financial losses for livestock businesses.
The arrival of BTV-3 in Scotland this season has added to those concerns, with the disease now recorded across all three nations of Great Britain.
Vaccine availability is another issue facing farmers, with demand placing pressure on supplies in Great Britain.
Lynch said: “ Bluetongue vaccine supplies are under severe pressure in Great Britain, with some manufacturers having no available stock at the moment.”
The UFU is advising farmers considering vaccination to discuss the options with their own vet.
“The UFU strongly urges any farmers considering vaccination to consult their private veterinary practitioner to determine the most appropriate course of action for their farm,” Lynch said.
Bluetongue is a notifiable disease and farmers should be familiar with the signs, which can include high fever, lameness, inflammation and sores around the mouth and nose, swelling of the head and neck, excessive salivation and nasal discharge.
Animals may also become stiff or reluctant to move because of swelling around the hooves.
Lynch said: “Farmers must remain vigilant for the signs and symptoms of BTV-3, and any suspected cases should be reported immediately to their private veterinary practitioner. All advice relating to notifiable diseases must be strictly followed.”
