Bluetongue is becoming an increasingly serious threat to Irish farms, with reported cases rising by 50% in just one week. The danger needs no open gate or broken fence. A single infected midge can carry it straight to your livestock.
The Irish Farmers Journal reported on 20 October that confirmed cases this season had reached 39 across 12 counties in the Republic of Ireland, up from 26 the previous week. Wexford accounted for 15 cases, making it the hotspot in that update.
Small insects, serious consequences
Bluetongue spreads mainly through infected Culicoides biting midges. They pick up the virus when feeding on an infected animal and can pass it to another through a subsequent bite. Wind can carry infected midges between locations, taking the threat beyond farm boundaries.
These midges breed in damp organic material, including manure, compost and moist soil. They are particularly active around dawn and dusk, with seasonal activity generally extending from April to November, depending on conditions.
Stay alert. Take practical action.
- Keep muckheaps away from livestock and housing where practical, and review damp areas that could support midge breeding.
- Watch for fever, drooling, mouth sores, facial swelling and lameness. Some infected cattle show few obvious signs.
- Contact your vet immediately about suspected infection, follow official reporting requirements and discuss vaccination.
DON’T LEAVE FARM PEST MANAGEMENT TO CHANCE
Contact Concept Pest Control today to book a professional farm survey. We can assess pest activity, identify potential breeding areas and recommend practical pest management measures for your premises, supporting your farm management alongside your vet’s disease prevention advice.
T: +44 28 9061 0999
E: pestcontrol@the-concept-group.com
W: conceptpestcontrol.co
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