Farmers in Carlow and Kilkenny are being urged to remain vigilant following confirmed cases of Bluetongue in Ireland.
While the disease poses no risk to humans, farmers are being advised to watch for symptoms as warmer months approach.
Minister for Agriculture Martin Heydon has allowed vaccination of at-risk animals this year.
Local Fine Gael TD Catherine Callaghan says “Vaccination remains the only evidence based control option now available to farmers at risk of exposure, the Minister has led from the front on this issue and I encourage all farmers to consult with their veterinary practitioner to see if vaccination is suitable for their livestock”.
She adds; “In cases of suspected Bluetongue farmers should isolate the suspect animal indoors immediately and report the case to the Department”.
