Danish farmers should be especially vigilant regarding symptoms of bluetongue disease following its detection in a sheep and cattle herd in Tønder Municipality. This marks the first occurrence of bluetongue in Denmark in 15 years, as reported by the Danish Veterinary and Food Administration (Fødevarestyrelsen).

Investigations were conducted on a deceased sheep from the herd after veterinarians suspected bluetongue. The herd consists of 180 sheep and 40 cattle, but the remaining animals have not shown any signs of the disease so far. To prevent further transmission, the Danish Veterinary and Food Administration has imposed restrictions on the affected herd, which prohibit the movement of animals without governmental permission. However, the agency emphasizes that these restrictions alone cannot entirely prevent the spread of the disease, especially since it is primarily transmitted through insects.

Previous forecasts by the Danish Veterinary Consortium had already indicated a potential spread to Denmark following outbreaks in Germany, Belgium, England, and the Netherlands. Therefore, it is critical for farmers to be aware of symptoms such as fluid retention, sores in the mouth, lameness, miscarriages, and high mortality rates. In sheep, bluetongue can cause the tongue to turn blue.

The disease predominantly affects sheep, goats, and cattle, and while it is not transmissible to humans, it can result in significant economic losses for farmers. Euthanasia of severely ill animals is often considered the only humane solution due to the painful and prolonged nature of the disease. Furthermore, there is no compensation for euthanasia or production losses, which can impose financial burdens on the affected farms.

Denmark is now losing its status as free from bluetongue, which will have consequences for the export of live cattle, bull semen, as well as certain dairy products and beef to countries outside the European Union (EU). Within the EU, trade with ruminants will also be impacted. There are currently no approved vaccines available in Denmark, but EU approval is expected later this year.