Case of bluetongue virus confirmed in Co Wexford cattle herd
A case of the bluetongue virus (BTV-3) has been confirmed in a cattle herd in County Wexford, Ireland. The Department of Agriculture is urging farmers to consider vaccination as the virus continues to circulate in Great Britain.
Why it matters
The detection has already led to trade restrictions, including a suspension of Irish beef imports by China, highlighting the economic impact of livestock disease.
A CASE OF the bluetongue virus has been detected in a herd in Co Wexford, the Department of Agriculture has said.
An unvaccinated 16-month-old heifer tested positive for bluetongue virus serotype 3 (BTV-3) on post-mortem examination.
The department said no clinical signs were detected before the animal’s death.
The case comes as instances of bluetongue in Britain continue to rise sharply – there have been around 800 cases in England, Scotland and Wales since the 2026/27 season began in July.
Control zones and trade restrictions were imposed in Northern Ireland late last year after several cases were detected.
Bluetongue is a viral disease affecting cattle, sheep and other ruminants and is spread primarily by midges.
It does not infect or affect humans and poses no risk to public health or food safety.
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