Blue Tongue Virus (BTV)

General information

The bluetongue virus, an Orbivirus, is transmitted by biting midges and causes bluetongue disease in cattle, sheep and goats. Bluetongue disease first occurred in Germany in 2006. So far, serotypes 6 and 8 have been recognised in Germany. Bluetongue disease is characterised by fever, circulatory disorders, head oedema, and ulcerations of the mucosa of the head as well as the teats and the feet. The disease can also be accompanied by severe pneumonia. In sheep, the mortality rate can be 50%. Lamas and alpacas may become infected, too. In Germany, there is an obligation to inform the authorities.