Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 30 April 2013
471. Deputy Jim Daly asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will outline the scale and seriousness of the Schmallenberg virus in Ireland today; the steps being taken by his Department to deal with this virus; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19938/13]
View answerSchmallenberg virus has been confirmed on a total of 78 holdings (48 bovine and 30 ovine) over ten counties in the South of the country, with the highest incidence in Cork, Kilkenny and Wexford. A survey conducted on a statistically selected sub-sample of Brucellosis round test bloods (17 herds per county) taken last November shows exposure in 24 counties. This survey will be repeated in June.
While the situation for individual farmers can be very difficult, the advice remains that the economic impact on a national level is likely to be low. Based on the pattern in the UK and elsewhere, between 4-6% of holdings are likely to be affected. In those holdings that are affected, the within-herd/flock impact in terms of deformities is likely to be mild in most cases at 2-5% of affected pregnancies, but moderate at worst. The highest level of problems would be expected in herds that have synchronised breeding programmes and where large numbers of animals were infected during the critical period of pregnancy in 2012. My Department is currently assessing the impact following the end of the calving/lambing season
Exposure of non-pregnant animals to the virus may, in fact, be beneficial pending the development of an effective vaccine. Exposed animals develop a strong immunity and are unlikely to suffer any ill-effects if exposed to the virus on a subsequent occasion. If this viral infection becomes endemic, the ill-effects are likely to be confined to younger animals and cows and ewes that have not been previously exposed. Based on Australian experience in vaccinating against a similar virus/disease (Akabane virus infection), the expert view is that vaccination is likely to be an effective tool in control of the SBV infection. The development of a vaccine is in progress and my Department is continuing to monitor developments closely.
Meanwhile, farmers are advised to contact their veterinary practitioner if they encounter cases of aborted foetuses or newborn animals showing malformations or nervous signs and also in cases where lambs or calves cannot be delivered naturally.
