PR192/07 Bluetongue Guidance to all Cattle and Sheep Owners 18 October 2007
The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development is reminding farmers here to remain vigilant for the signs of Bluetongue disease.
The Department has produced a Bluetongue leaflet which is being posted to all cattle and sheep owners. The leaflet, which outlines the signs and symptoms to look for, is accompanied by a letter from the Department’s Chief Vet. Guidance is also displayed on the Department’s web site at http://www.dardni.gov.uk/index/animal-health/animal-diseases/bluetongue.htm
There has been confirmation of further cases of the bluetongue disease in England. Whilst the risk to here remains low at present, farmers here have an important role to play to help keep Bluetongue out.
The Department urges farmers to inspect their livestock at least daily for signs of disease and to report any suspicions to their local Divisional Veterinary Office.
The Department is also issuing advice to anyone considering importing stock from countries where Bluetongue is present. Importers are asked to seriously consider this advice, given their responsibility to help protect farms here from Bluetongue.
Bluetongue can have significant economic impacts in terms of on farm losses due to death, sickness and reduced productivity. There are also losses to export revenue as live exports are banned from affected areas.
The Department continues to liaise closely with Defra, other Devolved Administrations and with the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food in Dublin to monitor the Bluetongue situation. DARD is also continuing to work in partnership with key stakeholders to mitigate the threat of bluetongue incursion.
NOTES TO EDITORS
- Detailed information on the symptoms of Bluetongue is available on the DARD website at http://www.dardni.gov.uk/index/animal-health/animal-diseases/bluetongue.htm or by contacting the DARD helpdesk on 028 9052 4999.
- The Bluetongue virus is spread by midges which transfer the virus from animal to animal by biting them. The first detection of Bluetongue in the UK was reported on 22 September.
- Bluetongue affects all ruminants, such as cattle, goats, deer and sheep. Clinical signs can vary by species – although symptoms are generally more severe in sheep, cattle can also show signs of disease
- Anyone who knows or suspects that any animal or carcase in his possession, under his charge or being examined or inspected by him is infected with Bluetongue is required under the Bluetongue Order (NI) 2003 to notify the Divisional Veterinary Office.
- Council Directive 2000/75/EC lays down the specific measures for control of Bluetongue. This is transposed in Northern Ireland legislation in the Bluetongue (Northern Ireland) Order 2003.
- Media queries to DARD Press Office tel. 028 9052 4619. Out of hours, please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 076 9971 5440 and your call will be returned.
