- Numerous entities impacted by bluetongue disease
Within a mere ten months, the Blue Tongue Disease agent has made its way across Germany. Several instances have been reported in Saarland, with six animal farms or holding facilities impacted by Friday afternoon. After Saxony joined the list on Friday, Berlin remains the sole region in animals that hasn't been touched by this disease, as per the Friedrich-Loeffler-Institute (FLI).
The Blue Tongue virus is primarily transmitted by specific types of midges. Livestock such as cattle and sheep, along with South American camel species, goats, and wild boars, are among its common targets. Fortunately, the virus does not pose a threat to human health. Consumption of meat and dairy products from susceptible animals is safe.
In Saarland, outbreaks were reported in August, specifically at a cattle farm in Lebach, as well as two sheep farms in Losheim and Weiskirchen. The outbreak was officially acknowledged by the Ministry of Agriculture on Monday, which led to certain constraints, such as the movement of animals. The state also supports the vaccination of animals. Prior to this, Saarland had maintained its virus-free status since 2020. As per the data, Germany has been dealing with a viral onslaught in recent weeks: With 13 nationwide cases recorded in June, the number jumped to over 1,200 in July. By August 23 alone, more than 4,800 infections had been reported.
The FLI attributes the epidemic to the BTV-3 serotype of the pathogen. More cases and affected operations are predicted for the remainder of the year, as suggested by the federal institution responsible for animal diseases. They also added, "Without a doubt, BTV-3 will keep us occupied in the coming year."
As of May, Germany houses approximately 10.6 million cattle, with around 3.7 million being dairy cows. According to the German Farmers' Association, more than 75 percent of cattle are found in Bavaria, Baden-Württemberg, Lower Saxony, North Rhine-Westphalia, and Schleswig-Holstein.
The variant made its first appearance in the Netherlands in September 2023 and quickly spread. The first case in Germany was identified in October 2023 at a sheep farm in North Rhine-Westphalia.
Affected animals may exhibit symptoms such as fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, swelling of the head, tongue, and lips, as well as redness and swelling of mucous membranes. In severe cases, fatality may also occur.
In an attempt to prevent further spread of the disease, strict veterinary measures are being implemented in affected regions, focusing significantly on the agriculture sector. The German government is working closely with farmers to implement vaccination programs for livestock, particularly focusing on cattle and sheep, which are common targets of the Blue Tongue virus in agriculture.
