Bluetongue could be a losing cattle

Livestock lockdown in Co Down after suspected outbreak

- BY POL ALLINGHAM

THE first suspected bluetongue virus outbreak on the island of Ireland is under investigation.

The disease is believed to be affecting two cows near Bangor, Co Down.

On Saturday Stormont's Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs introduced a 20km temporary control zone and moving susceptible species in or out of it is now prohibited.

A general licence is available that allows animals to cross the boundary if they are going directly to slaughter.

Bluetongue is an animal disease that affects livestock including cattle and sheep, as well as goats, deer and llamas.

Symptoms include a blue and swollen tongue, fever, reduced milk yield and, in the most severe cases, death.

It does not affect humans or food safety and is primarily transmitted through midges.

The North's Agriculture Minister Andrew Muir said all producers affected by the new control measures need to help limit the virus.