Home / Environment / Bluetongue Virus Eases: Animal Movement Restrictions Lifted
Bluetongue Virus Eases: Animal Movement Restrictions Lifted
10 Dec, 2025
Summary
- Bluetongue virus risk in County Down has decreased due to colder weather.
- Some animal movements are now permitted under license following the outbreak.
- Farmers outside control zones can move livestock to Great Britain normally.
The threat of bluetongue virus in County Down has diminished, primarily due to the impact of colder weather conditions. This seasonal change has allowed for a relaxation of some animal movement restrictions, with certain movements now being permitted under official licensing.
Specifically, livestock farmers situated outside the two temporary control zones, established near Bangor and Greyabbey, will be able to move their animals to Great Britain according to their usual procedures. This marks a significant easing for these agricultural operations.
Furthermore, the updated situation permits animals to be transported into the temporary control zones themselves. This signifies a broader normalization of movement following the reduction in the bluetongue virus's infectious potential.
