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Bluetongue reaches Altötting: cattle and sheep affected!
Bluetongue disease (serotype 3) was detected in cattle and sheep in the Altötting district; Follow vaccination recommendations.
Bluetongue reaches Altötting: cattle and sheep affected!
Bluetongue disease (BTV-3) is currently making a name for itself in the Altötting district. How Innsalzach24 reported, the animal disease was officially confirmed for the first time in this district. One sheep herd and three cattle herds are affected.
The virus has been spreading from the Netherlands to Germany since autumn 2023 and now affects around 18,000 cases nationwide. Particularly alarming: Bluetongue disease has only been detected in ruminants such as sheep, cattle and goats. Transmission occurs through blood-sucking mosquitoes, also known as biting midges, which counteracts direct infection between animals. On the positive side, there is no risk of infection for humans; Meat, milk and dairy products can be consumed safely.
Vaccination as the most important protective measure
The Standing Vaccination Commission for Veterinary Medicine recommends vaccinating endangered herds. Approved vaccines for sheep and cattle are currently in use. Around 12,000 cattle and 700 sheep have already been vaccinated in the Altötting district. Loud Animal Disease Fund Vaccination is considered the most important protective measure against the disease. On March 8, 2025, the Second Ordinance amending the Ordinance on certain vaccines to protect against bluetongue disease came into force, which regulates a transition period for three common vaccines until September 7, 2025, including Bultavo 3 and Bluevac-3.
The effectiveness of the vaccines can be increased by vaccinating sheep twice, three to four weeks apart. The Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture has also approved subsidies for vaccination costs, which can be paid directly to animal owners. This can provide significant relief for those affected.
Symptoms and prevention
The symptoms of bluetongue are varied and can have serious consequences for animals. These include, among other things, fever, inflammation of the mucous membranes and difficulty breathing. It is therefore essential that pet owners contact their veterinarian immediately if they experience specific symptoms. How FLI explains, protection against blood-sucking insects in combination with vaccination is an essential part of prevention measures.
In recent years, bluetongue has occurred in various European countries, with a focus on Italy and France. There is concern in Germany that the outbreaks could increase in the coming weeks and months. Therefore, it is important to remain vigilant and act in a timely manner.
In summary, bluetongue represents an urgent challenge for agriculture in the Altötting district. Support through vaccination measures and education of animal owners are essential to effectively control the spread of the disease and protect the health of animals.