The spread of bluetongue has accelerated in the Netherlands

By: STA Date: 2024. 08. 15. 10:00

The number of cases of bluetongue, which attacks ruminant animals, has increased in the Netherlands, the Dutch authorities announced on Thursday, and the epidemic is also spreading in Belgium, France and Germany.

(Photo: Pixabay)

According to the Dutch Ministry of Agriculture, the number of cases reached 3,087 by Thursday, which is 1,000 more than the number of cases recorded in the report published on Monday. A month ago, only about 100 cases were reported.

The epidemic first appeared in the Netherlands in 2008, and then started to spread again in September 2023

In Belgium, the disease affects around 670 animals, according to the latest data from the federal agency responsible for the safety of the food chain, while only 87 cases were reported in the first week of August. Belgian Federal Agriculture Minister David Clarinval proposed on Thursday that cattle and sheep breeding should be recognized as sectors in crisis due to the bluetongue epidemic. – By recognizing these sectors as being in a crisis situation, we simplify the handling of requests for the postponement or exemption of social security contributions. – the minister emphasized in his press release.

The disease caused by the virus is not dangerous for other animals and humans

The pathogen is spread exclusively by midges belonging to the genus Culicoides. The severity of the disease varies among different susceptible species. Symptoms are usually more severe in sheep – emaciation or death – cattle are usually less susceptible to the disease. In infected animals, the death rate is relatively low, but the disease can have serious complications, so it can last for a long time.

MTI