South Kerry hit by worst TB outbreak in living memory

FARMERS are hoping a new vaccination programme for badgers will be rolled out in the Iveragh Peninsula in Kerry.

Residents say the area is experiencing the worst outbreak of TB in living memory, after at least 45 cattle herds were locked up following positive tests for tuberculosis.

In 2017, there were 75 herds restricted in the peninsula, with a further 36 restricted because of issues on neighbouring farms.

Dozens of farmers attended a meeting called by IFA south Kerry and attended by Department of Agriculture officials as the scale of the bovine TB outbreak was outlined.

“We’re not used to TB down in the peninsula, you’d have the odd reactor, but in 2016 we saw increased numbers and in 2017 there were over 302 reactors in 45 herds,” said IFA south Kerry chair Patrick O’Driscoll.

He added that the number of cases fluctuated across the 56 sq km district from Kells to Caherdaniel.

The Department of Agriculture confirmed many farms in the area were fragmented, which meant frequent moving of animals which could be a factor in spreading TB.

There has been a rise in deer numbers in the area but the department says the evidence to date is that badgers have contributed to the spread of the TB.

Farmers are advised to look for setts on their land but not disturb them.

A Department spokesman said they were working with farmers and were aware of the stress associated with an outbreak on the farm.

Officials are now capturing badgers to reduce badger density.

“Where badgers are identified as the source, a survey is carried out and the badgers captured and removed,” added the Department spokesman.