Bluetongue disease in the Altötting district: Red alert for animal owners!

Bluetongue disease in the Altötting district: Red alert for animal owners!

Bluetongue disease (BTV3) has recently been causing a stir in the Altötting district. How Innsalzach24 Reportedly, this animal disease was first detected in the region and affects both sheep and cattle. After the first outbreak in Germany last year, when five percent of the animals in the north were already affected, there is now worrying news in Bavaria too.

The disease is transmitted by midges, a type of mosquito that is increasing due to climate change. Infection rates have risen sharply, particularly in the last two years. According to information from the Chamber of Agriculture The spread of the virus in North Rhine-Westphalia has experienced an explosive increase since October 2023. Cattle populations are also showing clinical symptoms and some animals have already lost their lives.

Consequences for animal husbandry

The impact of bluetongue is significant. Affected animals suffer from various symptoms, including lameness, high temperatures and inflammation of the mucous membranes, leading to impaired milk production. Pregnant animals are particularly at risk because abortions and fetopathies can occur, as described by the Chamber of Agriculture. Treatment of sick animals requires additional measures, including antipyretic medication and care to ensure feed intake.

Nevertheless, there is hope: vaccination represents a way to protect stocks. The FLI recommends making vaccination appointments with the farm veterinarian before midge season. There are three approved vaccines, although immunity after vaccination has not yet been conclusively clarified. What is certain, however, is that vaccinated animals often suffer from milder symptoms even in the event of an infection. Of course, farmers should not only keep an eye on the health aspects, but also the economic impact that can be expected from possible price increases for dairy products as a result of the epidemic.

Currently, high animal losses due to the disease are not only a challenge for animal owners, but also have an impact on the entire industry. A total of eleven cases were registered in the nearby Mühldorf district in 2025, with three of these outbreaks being documented in the past two weeks. Measures to prevent infection, such as using repellents or grazing on suitable areas, are recommended to farmers.

Despite the strict reporting requirement for outbreaks and the recommended vaccinations, there are currently no legal control measures such as business closures. Raising awareness of the disease among livestock farmers is crucial as animals can be infected even without symptoms, complicating management on farms.

A look at neighboring countries shows the extent of the problem: Similar cases of the disease are already known in countries such as Belgium and France, and there is a risk of further spread. It is up to livestock farmers to take action and ensure the health of their livestock in order to avoid possible economic losses.