The Irish Shows Association (ISA) has issued an update to exhibitors in relation to bluetongue virus ahead of the 2026 show season.

In a statement on the association's website, the ISA said it is in ongoing contact with the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) and "will continue to work closely with the department as the situation develops".

The ISA said the department is not currently issuing specific advice or restrictions in relation to agricultural shows.

Bluetongue

The first case of bluetongue was confirmed in a suckler herd in Co. Wexford on January 24.

The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) has said that the virus has now been confirmed in "multiple cattle herds" in southern and eastern areas.

Bluetongue virus is mainly spread by infected biting midges which are present in Ireland and are generally most active between April and November.

The disease affects ruminant animals including cattle, sheep, goats, alpacas, llamas and deer.

The ISA said bluetongue is not normally transmitted directly from animal to animal, except in limited circumstances such as breeding.

"Bluetongue is to be classified under Category D of the EU Animal Health Law, meaning disease control measures focus primarily on regulating animal movements, particularly for trade between regions or member states, rather than imposing eradication programmes or broad domestic restrictions," the association added.

Shows

The ISA has reminded exhibitors that they must continue to comply with all regulations governing the movement of animals to and from shows as issued by the relevant department of agriculture.

"It is the responsibility of exhibitors to ensure that animals attending shows meet all relevant identification, movement and certification requirements as set out by legislation.

"Exhibitors should also consult with their own veterinary practitioners in relation to animal health measures, including advice on vaccination where appropriate," the association added.

The ISA said it will continue to monitor the situation closely and remain in regular contact with DAFM and the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA).

"Further updates will be issued to members and exhibitors as and when required," the association said.

Recent engagement between the DAFM and DAERA has led to measures to facilitate the continued movement and trade of livestock on the island of Ireland where certification requirements can be met.

Bluetongue virus serotype 3 (BTV-3) was first detected in Northern Ireland in late 2025.

The Royal Ulster Agricultural Society (RUAS) recently announced that all cattle and sheep entries for this year's Balmoral Show must be vaccinated against BTV-3.