Bluetongue vaccine approved for use in Northern Ireland

The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (Daera) has permitted the use of three bluetongue (BTV-3) vaccines in Northern Ireland.

Northern Ireland remains free of bluetongue with no confirmed cases. However, the disease has become more prevalent across Europe in recent years and poses an increased risk.

The use of vaccines is still subject to licensing and uptake will be voluntary.

See also: Industry must back bluetongue vaccine, says Welsh minister

NI farmers will now be able to use the vaccine as a precautionary measure, with it being found to reduce the severity of symptoms and lower the chance of mortality.

However, vaccines do not prevent transmission or infection.

Daera minister Andrew Muir said: “My department is continuing to take all necessary actions to protect Northern Ireland from an incursion of bluetongue virus.

“This includes our recently published BTV-3 Disease Control Framework.

“While we remain BTV free, I have now taken the decision to allow the use of the BTV-3 vaccines to give our farmers and livestock keepers an additional safeguard alongside our surveillance, prompt detection and control.

“It aims to provide an additional tool to help protect their flocks and herds.”

Daera’s disease control framework and further guidance for livestock producers can be found on the government website.

NI chief veterinary officer Brian Dooher added: “We continue to urge all livestock keepers to remain vigilant for the signs of BTV as we enter the high-risk period, and advise them to contact their private veterinary practitioner should they have any concerns.”

The use of BTV-3 vaccines is already permitted in England, Scotland and Wales.

There have been four cases of BTV-3 confirmed in England so far for the 2025-26 vector period.