Disappointment has been expressed after a suspected case of bluetongue was flagged in a second herd in Co Down.

Northern Ireland’s Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (Daera) said the suspect case is on a farm close to Greyabbey.

It follows the confirmation of more than 40 cases of bluetongue at a herd close to Bangor last week.

Daera said the new suspect case of the virus in a cow near Greyabbey is within the existing 20km temporary control zone (TCZ).

A second 20km TCZ around the Greyabbey farm has now been introduced, effective from 6pm on Saturday.

The animal disease affects livestock including cattle and sheep, as well as goats, deer and llamas.

It does not affect humans or food safety and is primarily transmitted through midges, which are most active from A

See Full Page