New risk of virus: Serotype 3 of blue -tongue disease requires increased protective measures!

New risk of virus: Serotype 3 of blue -tongue disease requires increased protective measures!

Voluntary vaccination as protection against a new virus variant of the Blazungungs disease

In the district of Schweinfurt, cases of a virus variant of the Bluetzungs disease that have not previously occurred were found. This viral disease primarily affects sheep, cattle and goats as well as other ruminants. The blue -tongue virus is mainly transmitted by mosquitoes and does not represent a danger to humans.

The newly occurred virus variant, serotype 3, requires urgent measures because infections have already become known. The previously available vaccines against serotypes 4 and 8 are not effective against this new variant. This requires preventive vaccination to prevent possible spread.

Especially affected animal species such as cattle, sheep and goats should urgently be vaccinated. Vaccination with a special, not yet approved vaccine is possible on a voluntary basis from July 11, 2024. Animal owners are recommended to have their stocks vaccinated against all three serotypes (3, 4 and 8) to ensure comprehensive protection.

The suspension of the "free of blue -tung disease" status in other federal states due to infection waves shows the need for effective protection for receptive species. Vaccination is a crucial step to minimize the risk of infection and prevent further spread.

The veterinary office at the Schweinfurt district office is available to answer questions about vaccination and blue -tongue disease. Animal owners can contact the office for more information by phone at 09721/55-310 or by email to vetamt@lrasw.de

- Nag