Bluetongue disease

Source: THE HINDU

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Context:

• France has reported an outbreak of bluetongue disease on a farm near the Belgian border, the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH).

What is Bluetongue Disease?

Bluetongue disease is a viral infection that affects ruminants, particularly sheep, cattle, goats, and deer. It is caused by the Bluetongue virus (BTV), which is part of the Reoviridae family. The disease is non-contagious but is spread through the bites of infected Culicoides midges, a type of biting gnat.

Disease Type	Infectious, non-contagious, vector-borne viral disease
Affected Species	Wild and domestic ruminants (sheep, goats, cattle, buffaloes, deer, most species of African antelope, camels)
Transmission	Transmission occurs through the bites of infected Culicoides midges. The midges thrive in warm, moist environments, which facilitates the spread of the virus. Other modes of transmission, such as through contaminated needles or in utero, are less common but possible.
Severity of Infections	Infections range from mild to severe, depending on the species affected Most infections in cattle are asymptomatic Sheep are most likely to show symptoms
Symptoms in Sheep	The clinical signs of Bluetongue disease vary depending on the species and the strain of the virus. However, common symptoms include: High fever Swelling of the mouth, head, and neck Nasal discharge Excessive salivation Lameness due to foot lesions Cyanosis (bluish discoloration) of the tongue, which gives the disease its name In severe cases, the disease can lead to high mortality, especially in sheep. Cattle often show milder symptoms but can act as carriers of the virus.

Impact on Agriculture

Bluetongue disease has a significant economic impact on the agricultural sector:

• Productivity Loss: Infected animals exhibit reduced productivity due to weight loss, decreased milk yield, and poor wool quality.
• Trade Restrictions: Outbreaks can lead to trade bans on livestock and animal products, affecting the economy.
• Veterinary Costs: The cost of controlling the disease through vaccinations and treatments can be substantial.

Control and Prevention

Effective control and prevention strategies are vital to mitigating the impact of Bluetongue disease:

• Vaccination: Administering vaccines to susceptible livestock is one of the most effective preventive measures.
• Vector Control: Reducing midge populations through insecticides and managing breeding environments can help lower transmission rates.
• Movement Restrictions: Imposing restrictions on the movement of infected animals can prevent the spread to unaffected areas.
• Surveillance: Continuous monitoring and reporting of cases help in early detection and response, minimizing outbreaks.

Global and National Responses

The global response to Bluetongue disease involves coordinated efforts by various countries and international organizations:

• Research and Development: Ongoing research aims to develop more effective vaccines and better understand the virus.
• Policy Frameworks: Countries have established policies and frameworks to manage outbreaks and control the disease.
• International Cooperation: Sharing information and resources internationally enhances overall disease management strategies.

Conclusion:

• Bluetongue disease poses a significant challenge to livestock health and agricultural economies
• Understanding this disease, its transmission, and control measures is essential for effective management.
• The recent reports of Bluetongue disease in the Netherlands highlight the global nature of animal health challenges and underscore the need for vigilant surveillance and response mechanisms.
• Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach involving scientific research, effective veterinary practices, and international cooperation.

The World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), formerly the Office International des Epizooties (OIE), is an intergovernmental organisation founded in 1924, coordinating, supporting and promoting animal disease control. The primary objective of WOAH is to control epizootic diseases and prevent their spread.

Source:

https://www.uniindia.com/~/bluetongue-disease-reported-in-all-dutch-provinces/World/news/3256261.html

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Diseases and Its Types

PRACTICE QUESTION Q. Bluetongue disease affects which of the following groups of animals? Cattle and goats Birds and reptiles Sheep and deer All of the above Select the correct answer using the codes below: A) 1 and 2 only B) 2 and 3 only C) 1, 2, and 4 only D) 1 and 3 only Answer: (D) Bluetongue disease affects wild and domestic ruminants such as sheep, goats, cattle, buffaloes, and deer. It does not affect birds or reptiles.