Bluetongue Disease in Cattle and Sheep – Ireland (2026)

2026-03-12T11:08:52+00:00

1. What is Bluetongue? Bluetongue is a viral disease affecting ruminant animals, including cattle, sheep, goats and deer. It is caused by the Bluetongue virus (BTV) and is spread mainly by biting midges (Culicoides species). It does not affect humans. Milk and meat remain safe to consume. Several virus strains (serotypes) exist. In Ireland the current concern is Bluetongue virus serotype [...]