Overview
- DAERA established a 20km Temporary Control Zone on November 29, restricting movements of cattle, sheep, goats, deer and camelids, with limited exemptions for direct slaughter.
- Two cows on the affected holding have been culled and sampling of the remaining herd is ongoing as laboratory testing continues.
- Authorities say the suspected cases were identified through stepped-up surveillance, including slaughterhouse checks, which first flagged the animals for follow‑up.
- Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland officials are coordinating their response, and Saintfield Mart has been closed as part of the containment measures.
- Officials emphasize there is no risk to human health and warn of possible trade impacts, while veterinary leaders caution the virus could spread next spring if not contained.