Feared blue tongue virus threatens Danish cattle
Denmark anticipates bluetongue virus to hit this summer, as per the Danish Veterinary Consortium. This disease affects sheep and cattle, with cases already in Germany, Belgium, England, and the Netherlands. Bluetongue is non-zoonotic but often fatal to livestock, causing serious symptoms like swelling, mouth sores, lameness, abortions, and the characteristic blue tongue in sheep. Spread by biting midges, the virus can also transfer via semen and during gestation. No compensation is provided for losses or culling due to the disease, posing severe financial risks to farmers. The outbreak could also restrict ruminant trade. While vaccination is currently prohibited in Denmark, a vaccine may be approved within the year. Denmark regained its bluetongue-free status in 2021 after outbreaks in 2007 and 2008.