Northern Ireland's farming community faces renewed concern as a second suspected case of bluetongue has been identified in County Down. The development has prompted the immediate establishment of a new temporary control zone, raising the stakes in efforts to contain the animal disease.
New Control Zone Established Near Greyabbey
The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (Daera) confirmed the suspect case is on a farm close to Greyabbey. This follows the confirmation last week of more than 40 cases of bluetongue in a herd near Bangor. In response, a second 20km temporary control zone (TCZ) around the Greyabbey farm was introduced, effective from 6pm on Saturday, 6 December 2025.
Daera noted the new suspect case falls within an existing 20km TCZ created for the Bangor outbreak. The virus, which does not affect humans or food safety, primarily spreads through midges and impacts cloven-hoofed animals including cattle, sheep, goats, deer, and llamas.
Officials Urge Vigilance and Adherence to Restrictions
Stormont's Agriculture Minister, Andrew Muir, described the emergence of the new suspect case as "very disappointing – especially for the farmer concerned". He stressed the new TCZ was an essential measure and urged farmers to be extra vigilant for clinical signs.
Chief Veterinary Officer Brian Dooher labelled bluetongue an "unpredictable virus" with significant impact on livestock and the rural economy. He reiterated Daera's rapid action under its Disease Control Framework and called on the industry to remain vigilant, particularly within the TCZs. Farmers suspecting an outbreak must report symptoms immediately to their vet or the Daera helpline on 0300 200 7840.
Growing Pressure on the Farming Sector
The potential new case has amplified concerns about the cumulative pressures on agriculture. Robbie Butler, UUP MLA and Chairman of Stormont's Agriculture Committee, said it reinforced the scale and urgency of the challenge. He warned that bluetongue, on top of avian flu and the bovine TB crisis, risked pushing many farmers to the edge and called for absolute cooperation and practical support from Daera.
Minister Muir confirmed officials are working closely with stakeholders and counterparts in the Irish, UK, Scottish, and Welsh governments to manage the rapidly evolving situation. The united message to the public remains that bluetongue poses no risk to human health, but strict biosecurity and movement restrictions are paramount for protecting Northern Ireland's valuable livestock industry.
