Bluetongue cases confirmed at four Northern Ireland farms, prompting vigilance despite winter limits on midge spread.

Suspected bluetongue cases have been identified at a fourth farm in Northern Ireland, bringing the total to four, including confirmed outbreaks near Bangor and in Greyabbey and County Down. The virus, which affects cloven-hoofed animals but poses no risk to humans or food safety, is transmitted by midges. Although winter weather limits midge activity, officials urge farmers and vets to remain vigilant and report symptoms immediately. No extension of the temporary control zone is planned, and efforts continue to ease movement restrictions for unaffected farms.