Overview
- The infection was detected through routine surveillance, with the positive result traced to a sample from a slaughtered animal and further herd testing under way.
- Cold weather limits replication of the virus in midges below about 12°C, making wider spread unlikely now, with risk expected to rise from April.
- The Department of Agriculture is convening a second emergency meeting as live exports of cattle and sheep face new restrictions, including 12‑month suspensions to some smaller markets such as the UAE.
- Exports of meat and dairy products to the EU, UK and most international markets are not affected, and Ireland has been revising third‑country health certificates to limit disruption.
- Ireland has authorised BTV‑3 vaccination for 2026 and farmers are urged to discuss spring vaccination with vets, while the IFA says restrictions currently apply only to the affected farm and domestic marketing can continue.