Nicosia:Recent laboratory tests have confirmed cases of bluetongue virus serotype 4 (BTV-4) in sheep and goat farms across Cyprus. The Veterinary Services have announced they are actively monitoring the situation and implementing necessary measures to manage the spread.

According to Cyprus News Agency, BTV-4 has been detected in Cyprus previously. The country has recorded various serotypes of the bluetongue virus over the years. Bluetongue is an infectious disease affecting both domestic and wild ruminants, primarily sheep, but also goats, cattle, and other susceptible animals. Transmission occurs through Culicoides insect bites, not directly between animals.

The disease tends to be seasonal, with higher temperatures and humidity levels increasing the activity of these insect vectors, while lower temperatures reduce their activity and thus the risk of transmission. In response, the Veterinary Services have urged farmers to take steps to protect their animals from insect bites by using repellents or insecticides, implementing insect control at livestock facilities, and reducing animal exposure during peak insect activity periods.

Vaccination is highlighted as the most effective measure to mitigate the impact of bluetongue, particularly in regions where the virus is prevalent or poses a significant risk. Since vaccination effectiveness is typically serotype-specific, farmers are advised to collaborate with private veterinarians and Veterinary Authorities to select appropriate vaccination programs based on the current epidemiological data and available vaccines.

Bluetongue is classified as a notifiable disease, but confirmation does not necessarily lead to culling, unlike other diseases such as foot-and-mouth disease. Importantly, the Veterinary Services have reassured the public that bluetongue is not a zoonotic disease and poses no risk to human health.

Farmers are encouraged to conduct daily checks on their animals and to promptly contact their veterinarian or the Veterinary Services if they notice symptoms such as fever, facial swelling, excessive salivation, bluish discoloration of the tongue, oral lesions, or lameness.