Bluetongue disease

Bluetongue disease

Bluetongue is a viral infectious disease that mainly affects ruminants such as sheep, cattle, goats and wild ruminants. It is caused by the bluetongue virus (BTV). The virus is mainly transmitted by the bite of certain mosquito species of the genus Culicoides. Direct transmission between animals is rare.

Sheep are most commonly and severely affected, while cattle can often be asymptomatically infected. Symptoms may include fever, swelling and discolouration of the mucous membranes (especially the tongue), salivation, lameness and weight loss. In severe cases, ulcers and bleeding of the mucous membranes may occur.


Frequently asked questions:

  • What is bluetongue disease?

    Bluetongue is a viral infectious disease that mainly affects ruminants such as sheep, cattle, goats and wild ruminants. It is caused by the bluetongue virus (BTV).

  • How is the virus transmitted?

    The virus is mainly transmitted through the bite of certain mosquito species of the genus Culicoides. Direct transmission between animals is rare.

  • Which animals are most commonly affected?

    Sheep are most frequently and severely affected, while cattle can often be asymptomatically infected.

  • What are the symptoms of infected animals?

    Symptoms may include fever, swelling and discolouration of the mucous membranes (especially the tongue), salivation, lameness and weight loss. In severe cases, ulcers and bleeding of the mucous membranes may occur.

  • How is bluetongue diagnosed?

    Diagnosis is made by clinical examination and laboratory diagnostic tests such as real-time PCR, serological tests (ELISA) and virus isolation.

  • Is there a treatment for bluetongue?

    There is no specific antiviral treatment for bluetongue. The care of infected animals is focussed on alleviating symptoms and preventing secondary infections.

  • How can bluetongue be prevented?

    Preventive measures include the vaccination of animals in endemic areas, the application of insect repellents, mosquito controls and the avoidance of grazing areas during peak mosquito activity.

  • Is there a vaccine against the bluetongue virus?

    Yes, there are various vaccines that are effective against the bluetongue virus. These include inactivated and live-attenuated vaccines that specifically target different serotypes of the virus.

  • What regulations apply to the mandatory reporting of bluetongue?

    Bluetongue is a notifiable animal disease. Suspected cases must be reported to the competent veterinary authorities.