- First case of bluetongue since 2009 in MV
Blue Tongue Disease Confirmed in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern
A case of Blue Tongue Disease has been confirmed on a dairy farm in the Ludwigslust-Parchim district. This is the first confirmed case in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern since 2009, as announced by a spokesperson for the district.
"This means that Mecklenburg-Vorpommern loses its so-called freedom status regarding Blue Tongue Disease," the spokesperson said. The transport of animal species that can contract the virus disease, as well as breeding material, will now only be possible under certain conditions. The affected herd of 23 cows has been isolated and placed under official supervision.
Vaccination not approved but possible
Blue Tongue Disease is a disease that affects sheep and cattle. However, goats, deer, and camelids such as llamas and alpacas are also susceptible.
A vaccination against the current Serotype 3 present in Germany is not approved in the EU. However, various unapproved vaccines can be used. Vaccination currently offers the only effective protection against symptoms and animal losses. The disease is often fatal for sheep and goats.
Symptoms of Blue Tongue Disease were detected in a cow from the affected herd. Blood tests conducted by the Mecklenburg-Vorpommern State Office for Agriculture, Food Safety and Fisheries, as well as the Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut (FLI), confirmed the suspicion.
Transmitted by small biting midges
The disease is not transmitted directly from animal to animal, but by small midges, known as Gnats of the Culicoides genus. The disease is harmless to humans, and consumption of food is safe.
The first outbreak of Blue Tongue Disease with Serotype 3 in Germany was recorded by the FLI on October 12, 2023, in North Rhine-Westphalia - the first such case in the country since 2021. Since then, outbreaks have also been reported in Lower Saxony, Rhineland-Palatinate, and Hesse. The number of confirmed cases in Germany increased significantly in July.
"In light of the confirmed Blue Tongue Disease case, the Member States will be called upon to assist the Commission in implementing the necessary measures."
"Given the loss of freedom status, the Member States' veterinary services may need to collaborate closely with the Commission to ensure compliance with the new conditions for animal transport and breeding material."
