Alarm in Lower Saxony: Bluetongue disease endangers animal husbandry

Alarm in Lower Saxony: Bluetongue disease endangers animal husbandry

Bluetongue poses a significant threat to animal husbandry in Germany and recent developments are worrying. This animal disease, which particularly affects sheep, goats and cattle, has seen a dramatic increase in cases in recent months. What is particularly frightening is that transmission is facilitated by blood-sucking mosquitoes, which are particularly active in warm, humid weather.

The spread at a glance

Bluetongue was first detected in the Ammerland district in Lower Saxony on October 25, 2023. Since then, reports have increased dramatically across Germany. By August 16, 2023, a total of 1,005 cases had been registered in Lower Saxony, while 3,279 companies nationwide were already affected. North Rhine-Westphalia leads the list with 2005 companies, followed by Lower Saxony with 903 companies.

Threatening infections and their symptoms

The symptoms of bluetongue are serious and can have serious consequences for affected animals. Inflammation and detachment of the mucous membranes occur in cattle. Sheep show symptoms such as fever, apathy and isolation from the herd. In the worst case, the infection can even lead to the death of the animals. In view of this reality, Lower Saxony's Agriculture Minister Miriam Staudte urged animal owners to have their animals vaccinated. This is not only a protection for the animals, but also an economic necessity.

Economic impact for animal owners

The economic consequences of bluetongue disease are serious for many companies. The shepherd Wendelin Schmücker emphasized that existing challenges caused by the spread of wolves are putting additional strain on the lives of grazing livestock farmers. Despite a subsidy of only three euros per vaccination from the animal disease fund, the financial pressure can be considerable, especially if the costs of vaccinations are not covered. Schmücker fears that many companies could face the challenge of going out of business due to this epidemic.

Health significance for people

However, bluetongue does not pose a danger to humans. The national health authority has confirmed that handling the infected animals and consuming their meat or milk is safe. However, alternative animal species such as alpacas and llamas also need to be considered as they can also become infected.

The call for vaccination

In view of the rapid spread of the disease and the impending dangers for animal husbandry, the Minister of Agriculture appeals to all animal owners: “Have your animals vaccinated to avoid unnecessary suffering.” The effects of this animal disease are not only felt locally, but also have the potential to have a lasting impact on the German agricultural system. It is a critical time for animal agriculture and hope for quick solutions is urgently needed.