Bluetongue is the tip of the iceberg in terms of vector-borne animal diseases that are coming in Ireland’s direction.
This is the very clear assertion of veterinary toxicologist, Alan Murphy. He works with the UK’s Animal Plant and Health Agency (APHA).
He explained: “The challenge posed by vector-borne diseases will continue to grow over the coming years.
“Bluetongue is already here. But a number of other diseases are also coming our way. These include: lumpy skin disease and epizootic haemorrhagic disease or EHD.
“EHD primarily impacts deer. But it will spread to cattle. And nothing can stop the spread of these diseases from Europe into the UK and Ireland.
“Climate change is facilitating the movement of midges from country to country.”
Where bluetongue is concerned,…