Testing has been ramped up after the first suspected Bluetongue case on the island of Ireland.

Two cows have been culled after the alarm was raised at an abattoir close to Bangor, Co Down.

Northern Ireland’s Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs Minister Andrew Muir said he believes the virus has arrived on the island for the first time.

Are you blue tongue aware ? Find out more at : https://t.co/D0sXJRgwnn pic.twitter.com/XoUebTITTO

— DAERA (@daera_ni) November 30, 2025

On Saturday the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (Daera) introduced a 20km temporary control zone (TCZ) near Bangor in Co Down.

The measures will include the closure of Saintfield Mart.

Bluetongue is an animal disease that affects livestock including cattle and sheep, as well as goat

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