After cases of bluetongue disease occurred this year in cattle in Vorarlberg, Tyrol, Styria, Carinthia and Lower Austria, the virus that causes the disease was also found in Salzburg today. It was discovered in two calves from one farm during a routine commercial inspection.
The farm was immediately closed by the veterinary authorities and developments were closely monitored. Bluetongue was found in Salzburg today for the first time since 2009. The disease is transmitted by mosquitoes. Farm animals such as cattle, sheep or goats, as well as llamas and alpacas, as well as wild ruminants are susceptible to this disease. “Bluetongue disease is harmless to humans. The affected company was immediately notified, an official ban on animal trade was ordered and further investigations were initiated by the district veterinary authority to prevent further spread at an early stage,” said State Veterinary Director Peter Schiefer.
Laboratory confirms “serotype 3”
The national AGES reference laboratory in Mödling has detected bluetongue virus serotype 3 in two calves from a farm in the state of Salzburg. “For the time being, animals are not allowed to be brought in or out there for fourteen days. Further samples were taken from the animals on the farm. The authority continues to monitor the situation closely. So far, no animals there have shown symptoms of the disease. If something happens, the animals must be treated,” explains the state veterinary director.
Biting mosquitoes spread viruses
Serotype 3 of the bluetongue disease, which has been identified today and can be spread quickly and widely via mosquitoes, means that very serious illness and even deaths are possible, especially in sheep. “It is now important to closely monitor the affected herd, especially to prevent major animal suffering,” says Peter Schiefer. In contrast to serotype 3, serotype 4, which is also found in Austria, currently causes very mild cases with animals generally showing no symptoms of the disease.
Vaccination relieves the symptoms
To protect animal species susceptible to the virus – especially cattle and sheep – from deaths and serious illness, vaccination for animal owners is urgently recommended, especially against serotype 3. “It is the only effective preventive measure, slows down the progress of the disease significantly and thus prevents animal suffering. Vaccination in the winter months in particular should be considered in preparation for the next grazing season,” says Peter Schiefer.
Cases in other states
More than 100 cases of aggressive serotype 3 have already been confirmed in Vorarlberg and Tyrol. In Carinthia, Styria and Lower Austria, the virus with serotype 4 was found at more than twenty farms.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
