- First case of bluetongue in Bremen
Bremen has been hit by the Blue Tongue Disease that is dangerous for sheep and cattle. Two sheep have been infected with the Type 3 disease, as reported by the health department. The animals had fever and swollen mucous membranes in the head area. This is the first known case in Bremen. The authority assumes that the disease will spread further.
No risk to humans
The disease is harmless to humans; consumption of animal products is also safe. The first case was confirmed in the Netherlands in September 2023, since then the disease has been spreading in Belgium, Lower Saxony, and North Rhine-Westphalia.
Blue Tongue Disease is transmitted by blood-sucking midges, also known as gnats. Sheep are particularly affected, with ten percent of infected animals dying. Although there is currently no regularly approved vaccine, the use of vaccines is permitted under certain conditions. The Animal Disease Fund subsidizes vaccination.
Disease is notifiable
Trade in animals that can be infected is only possible under strict conditions. Affected animals include sheep, cattle, goats, and other ruminants such as alpacas and llamas.
Blue Tongue Disease is a notifiable disease. Symptoms include fever, separation from the herd, swelling of the mouth and tongue membranes, and excessive saliva production and frothing around the mouth.
The disease has also been detected in Lower Saxony, following its spread in the Netherlands and Belgium. Implementing strict conditions is crucial for trading animals vulnerable to Blue Tongue Disease, such as in Lower Saxony.
