Vaccination now! Ulrike Königsberger-Ludwig warns of blue-hearted disease

Vaccination now! Ulrike Königsberger-Ludwig warns of blue-hearted disease

The situation for farmers in Austria is tense because the blue-tongue disease (Bluetongue virus BTV) causes increasing problems. State Secretary Ulrike Königsberger-Ludwig points out on May 2, 2025 that vaccination against this disease is the only way to effectively protect sheep, goats, cattle, lamas and alpacas. It is all the more important to carry out the vaccination promptly in order to avert further damage and to secure the economic stability of the companies. ots that over 430 companies from BTV outbreaks have been recorded in Austria since September 2024.

The blue -tongue disease is transmitted mainly by mosquitoes in a moist environment and at higher temperatures. Only ruminants are affected, so that the disease is harmless to humans. The early signs of the disease include nasal and eye outflow, strong saliva and skin changes on teats and claws. Chamber of Agriculture adds that the disease can cause severe symptoms, such as lameness, high fever and swelling on the head, which in some cases even led to deaths in flocks.

vaccination recommendations and practice

The vaccines used against the blue pond virus are safe in the application and can also be administered in pregnant animals. For certain vaccines, especially for cattle, two doses are necessary every three to four weeks. After vaccination, there is no waiting time for milk or meat, not even in biological production. OTS also report that the vaccination costs are usually carried out and therefore a rapid planning of the vaccination with the vaccination treating veterinarian is recommended.

The explosion -like increase of the virus has been particularly alarming since July 2024, which in Germany from 13 cases in summer to almost 6,000. Restriction areas have also been set up in the neighboring countries such as Belgium, France and the Netherlands. Symptoms such as inflamed mouth and throat, difficulty swallowing as well as inflammatory processes in internal organs can often be found. The Chamber of Agriculture warns that pregnant animals can suffer abortions or health problems for the offspring.

measures to limit damage

To contain the spread of the virus, measures such as the use of repellentisms against mosquitoes as well as the stable and processing to less infested areas are important. Supporting treatment with fever -lowering and anti -inflammatory means can help relieve the symptoms and to facilitate the absorption of feed and water to the animals. The ministries recommend vaccinating the animals in good time to be better equipped in the coming winter when the Gnitz season begins again.

The early vaccination campaign and the consistent observation of disease symptoms are crucial in order to curb the spread of the blue, and the health of the affected animals as well as the economic future of the companies.