'Important that we get on top of this now': Leitrim TD calls for new Bluetongue measure

Sligo-Leitrim TD Martin Kenny has called on Minister Heydon and the Department of Agriculture to increase testing for the Bluetongue virus and expand it across the country.

There are currently 11 confirmed cases of Bluetongue across four herds in the south-East of Ireland, with concern that this number could grow.

Bluetongue Virus is an insect-borne viral disease that is spread through midges biting sheep and cattle stock.

The resulting infection causes high temperatures, swollen heads, crusty nostrils and oral cavities, salivation and a reluctance to move in Cattle and can affect the meat and wool production of the animal. In more severe cases, it causes death.

Deputy Kenny was speaking following a briefing by the minister and the department this morning on the recent outbreaks of Bluetongue in the Southeast of the country.

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“We were informed that this outbreak of Bluetongue was found following testing of an animal that was slaughtered, and that it was in fact antibodies to the virus that were found in the animal.

“This means that the animal became infected months ago – more than likely in late summer of last year, when midges carrying the virus were blown across the Irish Sea.

“Further testing on the farm found other animals were also carrying Bluetongue antibodies.  This means that these animals are no longer infectious and are not at risk of spreading the virus to any other animals.”

The virus spreads through midges biting an infected animal, the virus incubates in the insect for around 20 days before it can be spread when another animal is bitten.

Incubation of the virus is dependent on the average weather conditions staying around 12 degrees.

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“It is likely that the majority of the midges carrying the virus would have died already due to the cold weather, but it is possible that some may be hibernating and waiting for the weather to get warmer,” warned Deputy Kenny, who is Sínn Feins spokesperson on Agriculture.

“Therefore, it is important that farmers remain vigilant and increase bio-security measures on their farms.  Any signs of animals being unwell or off their food should be taken seriously, and the farm vet should be consulted immediately.

“The department is conducting random testing on farms in the Southeast of the country, close to where the outbreak occurred.  I am calling on the minister and the department to increase and expand this testing programme across the country.

“It is important that we get on top of this now before the weather starts to get warmer, creating conditions for the virus to grow and spread.”