The first case of Schmallenberg virus has been found in Ireland.

The virus was discovered last year in Germany; it was found to have spread throughout much of Central and Western Europe earlier this year and tests have revealed the virus overwintered in the midge population, increasing its range in the British Isles. Cases had previously been discovered as far west as Wales and up to Cumbria and North Yorkshire in the north.

The disease is spread by biting insects. Infected animals suffer flu-like symptoms, though those that contract the disease during early pregnancy can suffer severe complications. SBV affects cattle, goats, sheep and a number of wild animal species.

The first case discovered in Ireland came from a bovine foetus, submitted for testing from a farm in County Cork. The Department of Agriculture announced its animal health scientists had detected the virus in a foetus sent for autopsy on Tuesday (30th October).

Although the Department of Agriculture has been carrying out surveillance measures since February this year, the case is the first known instance of SBV in all of Ireland.

The Irish Farmers Association has said it is disappointing that the virus made its way across the Irish Sea. However, the Department of Agriculture said the situation is somewhat inevitable. A spokesperson said "As the virus has been spreading rapidly across Europe over the past year, finding evidence of the virus in Ireland is not unexpected. The department is carrying out epidemiological investigations seeking to establish the likely source of infection."  

Over 6,000 incidences of Schmallenberg infection have been recorded across 10 European countries since the disease’s discovery last year. Although the disease is non-notifiable in Ireland and the UK, authorities in both countries have urged farmers to remain vigilant and contact their vet if they notice anything out of the ordinary.

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