CATTLE HEALTH & MANAGEMENT

In 2024, Central Europe faced a significant outbreak of Bluetongue Virus Serotype 3 (BTV-3), affecting multiple countries and causing widespread concern among livestock farmers and veterinary authorities. As we move into the new risk season, it's crucial to remain vigilant and prepared . Outbreak Overview The outbreak began in late August 2023, with the first case detected in Norfolk, England. By December 2024, BTV-3 had spread to numerous countries, including Norway, Czechia, Austria, Sweden, Portugal, Spain, Greece, and Poland [1] [2] . The virus primarily affects ruminants such as sheep, cattle, and goats, causing symptoms like fever, swelling, and hemorrhages. Spread and Impact The rapid spread of BTV-3 was facilitated by the movement of infected animals and the activity of Culicoides midges, which are the primary vectors for the virus. By the end of 2024, over 5,900 outbreaks had been reported across Europe [2] . Countries like Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands saw signifi...

On March 7, 2025, Hungary reported its first outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) in over 50 years. The National Food Chain Safety Office (Nébih) confirmed the presence of the FMD virus on a cattle farm in the Kisbajcs region. This outbreak has significant implications for the country's livestock industry and its economy. The Outbreak Details The affected farm, home to 1,400 cattle, exhibited classic symptoms of FMD at the beginning of March. These symptoms include fever, loss of appetite, excessive salivation, and the appearance of blisters in the mouth and on the feet of the animals [1] [2] . The Nébih laboratory and the national chief veterinarian confirmed the presence of the pathogen, prompting immediate action to contain the outbreak. Containment Measures In response to the outbreak, the farm was swiftly closed, and an epidemiological investigation was launched to trace the source of the infection. Strict measures have been implemented to prevent the further spread of the...

In a significant development, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has confirmed the detection of a new avian influenza genotype, H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b, genotype D1.1, in dairy cattle. This marks the first time this genotype, previously found mostly in wild birds and poultry, has been identified in cattle. The discovery was made through the USDA's National Milk Testing Strategy (NMTS) in Nevada, following an initial detection in milk samples. This genotype has been circulating among wild and migratory bird populations and has now spilled over into domestic livestock. While the public health risk remains low, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is closely monitoring the situation. The USDA and state authorities are conducting further investigations to understand the spread and implement measures to prevent further transmission. Stay informed and stay safe!

On January 10, 2025, Germany reported its first outbreak of Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) since 1988. The outbreak was detected in a herd of water buffaloes near Berlin, specifically in the municipality of Hoppegarten in Brandenburg.  The Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Germany's National Reference Laboratory for FMD, identified the virus as serotype O. What is FMD? FMD is a highly contagious viral disease that affects cloven-hoofed animals such as cattle, pigs, sheep, goats, and deer. While it is not transmissible to humans, it causes significant economic losses due to decreased milk and meat production and restrictions on animal exports. https://doi.org/10.3389/fvets.2023.1201578 Clinical Signs and Transmission The clinical signs of FMD include fever, blisters on the tongue, lips, and hooves, excessive salivation, loss of appetite, lameness, and a drop in milk yield. The disease spreads rapidly through direct contact with infected animals, contaminated equipment, and even through th...