Overview
- Two cattle are confirmed positive on a farm near Bangor, with preliminary tests indicating 44 additional suspected infections in the same herd.
- A 20km Temporary Control Zone remains in place, limiting movements of cattle, sheep, goats, deer, llamas and alpacas to licensed direct-to-slaughter journeys.
- Agriculture Minister Andrew Muir and senior veterinary officials say widespread culling is not planned, citing no current veterinary rationale.
- Midge traps show ongoing activity despite colder weather, and modelling points to a wind‑borne midge incursion with local amplification rather than importation via animals.
- DAERA has intensified testing within the zone and is coordinating with Irish and UK counterparts as farm groups urge clear guidance and smooth slaughter-movement arrangements.