© Christophe Hochard
A recent screening of 129 farm animals in Luxembourg has revealed that 97 tested positive for bluetongue disease.
In response, authorities have launched a vaccination campaign to curb the spread of the disease, which primarily affects sheep and goats. While the virus can be fatal for these animals, the risk of death in cattle is significantly lower.
Bluetongue disease manifests through symptoms such as high fever and a bluish discoloration of the tongue. The virus cannot be transmitted to humans. Experts believe that a recent mutation has led to the current surge in infections.
First detected in the Netherlands in 2023, the disease later spread to Germany and Belgium by autumn of the same year. Now, it has also reached Luxembourg.
