Muir said awareness was key, adding: “Continued vigilance and strict biosecurity measures remain of paramount importance and I would once again urge all farmers to report any suspicion of disease to DAERA.
“It is important that I reiterate that Bluetongue poses no threat to public health nor to food safety – milk and meat are safe to consume.”
Dooher said any suspected cases on farms should be reported to Daera.
“Active surveillance is ongoing at abattoirs alongside post-import testing of susceptible animals imported from mainland EU countries.
“I also want to stress the importance of safe and responsible sourcing of animals.”
The disease was first detected here near Bangor in County Down in November 2025.
A number of other herds along the eastern coast of Northern Ireland have also been affected.
Farmers have been urged to vaccinate their animals.
The disease affects ruminants such as cattle, sheep, goats and deer.
It poses no risk to human health.

