Vaccines approved to prevent bluetongue

Growing concerns have been expressed over recent weeks as regards the spread of the bluetongue virus [BTV] to other parts of the island of Ireland – four outbreaks have been detected in Co. Down since November 25th last.

Minister Heydon said that following the detections of BTV in Down the ‘risk picture had changed’, making it much more likely that it would spread during the next high-risk season – the summer of 2026.

He advised cattle and sheep farmers who are interested in BTV 3 vaccinations to discuss the issue with their local vet as a licence is necessary to obtain and use the vaccine.

“My objective has always been clear: to detect any incursion of BTV3 as early as possible; to respond as effectively as possible, and to reduce any disease impact on Irish cattle and sheep, and thus the consequences for Irish farmers, as far as possible,” the Minister stated.

In reply to a Dáil question from Sligo-Leitrim SF TD, Martin Kenny, earlier this month, Minister Heydon confirmed that if a farmer had to cull stock because of BTV, on the instruction of the Department, compensation at the open market value would be paid to the affected farmer.

“Infected animals would be culled, but this does not mean the whole herd or flock; it is likely that only a small number of animals per infected herd or flock would need to be culled, based on the experience of other countries,” the Minister stated in his reply.

Galway IFA Chairman, Stephen Canavan, told the Farming Tribune, that while it was very early days as regards bluetongue in the Republic of Ireland, it was a matter of concern for livestock farmers.

“Probably the best advice for any farmer who has worries about the virus, is to consult with their vet to get an expert opinion on any concerns they have as regards bluetongue,” said Stephen Canavan.

Bluetongue is a virus spread by biting midges, mostly during the warmer summer season, affecting cattle, sheep, goats and deer – it poses no risk to human health.

The mortality rate among sheep flocks affected by BTV can range from 30% to 70%: in cattle the mortality rate is far lower but the virus can cause sickness, a lack of thrive, and a drop in milk yields.

Symptoms of BMV include appetite loss, mouth sores on face, lips, gums and tongue, breathing issues and nasal discharges as well as lameness.

The disease is not contagious between animals – it is only spread when a midge bites an infected animal and then spreads it by biting another animal.

Vaccination costs per animal can be up to €10 per head, paid for by the farmer. For further info on bluetongue visit: gov.ie/bluetongue

The Dept. of Agriculture has already made it clear that the pricing and supply of BTV 3 vaccines is a commercial matter, with the Department ‘having no role in the setting or controlling of prices for the product’.

In this week’s edition of the Farming Tribune [page 55], Teagasc advisor, John Galvin, points out that Ireland [Republic] is the last country in this region of the world to have stayed clear of bluetongue.

He advises farmers to avoid the importation of any live animals, semen or embryos and to also report any suspected cases of bluetongue to the local Regional Veterinary Office immediately.

Pictured: Minister for Agriculture, Martin Heydon