Czech Republic in Western Europe
In bluetongue, frothy saliva, serous or purulent nasal discharge, and difficulty breathing are common.
The current outbreak of the disease began in the Netherlands and then spread south and west. Cases were initially reported in Belgium and Germany, and more recently in Saxony and Bavaria. In the Czech Republic, a farm in Jindrichovice in the Sokolov district, almost 15 kilometres southeast of Klingenthal (Saxony) and 35 kilometres northeast of Selb (Bavaria), is currently affected.
Preventive measures
The ram showed typical symptoms, such as fever, nasal discharge, difficulty breathing, swelling around the head and loss of appetite. Czech veterinary authorities have established a so-called restricted area around the company within a radius of 150 kilometers. Cattle, sheep and goats can only be moved from this zone to other regions under strictly defined conditions.
The bluetongue virus is carried by certain mosquitoes. It infects mainly sheep and cattle. South American species of camels, goats and wild ruminants are also susceptible. Some protection against the disease can be achieved by vaccination.
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Bluetongue disease spreads among sheep and cows in Europe
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Vaccinations failed to protect cattle against bluetongue disease in the Netherlands