First confirmed cases in Austria since 2016
- In September 2024, the first cases of bluetongue disease in Austria since 2016 were confirmed in Vorarlberg and Styria.
- There is a risk that the disease will spread in the coming weeks.
- Restrictions on trade in the affected animal species now apply throughout Austria.
- There is no risk of infection for humans.
- However, the disease can have far-reaching consequences for unvaccinated animals.
- Vaccinating animals helps to minimize the consequences of the disease.
Status
Austria has declared itself free from bluetongue disease (BTV). This means that transport of susceptible animal species from Austria to other EU countries is subject to special conditions (such as blood tests and the use of mosquito repellent) and exports from Austria to third countries are currently very limited or even impossible. Transport of susceptible animal species within Austria is hardly subject to any special conditions if BTV freedom has been lifted throughout Austria.
Symptoms
Bluetongue disease causes serious illness and a high number of deaths, especially in sheep. Cattle also show a significant and severe decline in milk production when infected with this virus variant. Sick animals have, among other things, fever and swelling on the head and in the mouth, which can lead to the death of the animal.
Vaccinations and other measures
- To protect susceptible animal species from death and serious disease, vaccination is strongly recommended, especially against serotype 3.
- Although the vaccination does not guarantee complete protection, it significantly reduces the course of the disease and thus prevents animal suffering.
- All vaccines available on the European market can also be used in Austria.
- In addition, the animals should be kept in the stable in the evening and morning hours because the mosquitoes are especially active at these times.
