- New form of bluetongue virus found in Brandenburg
Bluetongue serotype 3 (BTV-3) has been detected for the first time in Brandenburg. The virus was found in two calves in a cattle herd in the Potsdam-Mittelmark district, a spokesperson for the Ministry of Health announced. This means that Brandenburg loses its status of being "free from the virus of bluetongue".
This type of bluetongue was first discovered in Germany in October 2023 and has since been spreading from the west. All ruminants such as cattle, sheep, and goats are susceptible to this animal disease. Even llamas, alpacas, and wild ruminants can be infected. The virus is transmitted by infected midges (a species of biting flies).
The pathogen is not transmissible to humans, making the disease harmless to people. Meat and milk from affected animals, as well as products derived from them, can be consumed without worry. Affected animals often show fever, with swelling of the head and mouth membranes. The disease is often fatal in sheep. Ruminants can be vaccinated against bluetongue. In Germany, bluetongue is a notifiable disease, and suspected cases must be reported to the veterinary office.
The first detection of Bluetongue serotype 3 in Brandenburg signifies an increase in animal diseases, as this virus is known to spread rapidly among ruminants and other susceptible animals. To prevent the further spread of Bluetongue, vaccination programs and strict reporting of suspected cases are crucial in managing animal diseases in Germany.
