- The Commission has also adopted a proposal for a directive on the protection of workers from the risks related to exposure to ionising radiation.
Following the outbreak of Bluetongue disease in cattle and sheep in Saxony-Anhalt, Saxony has also taken precautionary measures. Due to its proximity to the events in the neighboring federal state, Saxony is no longer considered "free" of BTV under EU regulations, the Social Ministry announced. This could lead to trade restrictions. Livestock owners of susceptible species should protect their animals from attacks by biting midges. Furthermore, vaccination can protect against a severe clinical course.
An infection with the virus of Bluetongue disease can cause significant animal suffering, explained Social Minister Petra Köpping. "Livestock owners of susceptible species in Saxony should therefore closely and attentively observe their herds. If there is any suspicion, the responsible veterinary office should be informed immediately," emphasized the SPD politician.
Report on a variant of the disease from Saxony-Anhalt
Since early July, more and more federal states have been reporting an explosive spread of the disease. Among others, the animal disease has been detected in North Rhine-Westphalia, Hesse, Lower Saxony, Rhineland-Palatinate, Bremen, and Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. On Wednesday, the Ministry of Agriculture in Magdeburg announced that the BTV-3 variant had been detected in Saxony-Anhalt.
Bluetongue disease is a viral disease in ruminants such as sheep or cattle, which is transmitted by small midges. Affected animals may suffer from appetite loss and fever, and the disease can be fatal. The pathogen is harmless to humans.
In light of the detected BTV-3 variant in Saxony-Anhalt, livestock owners in Saxony should also be vigilant and take necessary precautions to protect their animals from Bluetongue disease. If not managed correctly, this disease, known for causing significant animal suffering, could potentially spread to Saxony.
