Migratory Birds Introduce New Disease Threats to Livestock in Ireland, Raising Export Concerns
Migratory birds are increasingly linked to the introduction of new and exotic diseases into Ireland's livestock sectors, posing significant challenges to animal health standards and export capabilities. The bluetongue and Schmallenberg viruses, both midge-borne, are now threatening dairy, beef, and sheep farms. The Schmallenberg virus, in particular, has been associated with a concerning rise in newborn lamb and calf deformities across the island of Ireland. While avian flu has long been recognized as a threat to the poultry sector due to migratory birds, these new disease introductions highlight a broader and evolving risk to the long-term sustainability of the country's livestock industries. The ability to control imported livestock has historically provided some protection, but this is changing, making vigilance and robust animal health standards critical for maintaining international market access.
