The Isle of Man’s chief veterinary officer has confirmed today (Tuesday, January 20) that bluetongue (BTV) antibodies have been identified in a herd of cattle on a Manx farm.
An investigation was launched after a farmer reported several abortions in their herd.
Authorities said tests indicated some animals have been exposed to BTV and further testing will be done to confirm the strain.
Bluetongue
The Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture (DEFA) said that an ‘all-Island Bluetongue Restriction Zone’ has been introduced as a precaution.
The department said that animals can be moved unless they are showing clinical signs of the disease, including lethargy, swelling of the face, lips or tongue, excessive salivation, nasal discharge, fever, lameness, or abortion.
Farmers are being advised to monitor their livestock and report any concerns to the animal health team at DEFA.
“Livestock exports to the UK can continue on the normal basis, with no additional requirements.
“However, the Isle of Man must now comply with the same restrictions as UK farmers, which will limit direct trade with Scotland,” the department said.
DEFA noted that BTV “poses no risk to the public or food safety, but it can have serious consequences for cloven-hoofed animals such as sheep and cattle, affecting their health and productivity”.
“Finding antibodies means the animals have been exposed to BTV, but it does not mean they are currently infected. Further testing will give us more information,” the department added.
Disease
DEFA has advised farmers on the Isle of Man to review their biosecurity measures and consider speaking to their vet about the option of vaccination. B
In a statement, Minister for Environment, Food and Agriculture Clare Barber said:
‘I would like to thank our veterinary team, who are working closely with industry and relevant authorities.
“We will continue to keep farmers and the public informed, with updates and guidance shared as soon as more information becomes available.”
There have been 270 cases of bluetongue in Britain in the 2025 bluetongue season (since July 2025), including 249 cases in England and 21 in Wales. There have been no cases in Scotland.
There are 4 confirmed cases of BTV-3 in Northern Ireland.
