vendredi, janvier 10, 2025
2.7 C
Paris

Cinq questions sur la fièvre catarrhale ovine qui décime des élevages de moutons et inquiète quelques éleveurs

The « blue tongue » disease, also known as « bluetongue », is a viral infection that affects ruminants, such as sheep, goats, and cattle. It is transmitted by biting midges, small insects that feed on the blood of animals. While this disease can be fatal for infected sheep, it does not affect humans or food products.

The name « blue tongue » comes from one of the most common symptoms of the disease, which is a swollen and blue-colored tongue. Other symptoms include fever, drooling, and lameness. In severe cases, the disease can also cause respiratory and reproductive problems, leading to death.

The microbe responsible for blue tongue is part of the Orbimicrobe genus and is spread by different species of biting midges, depending on the region. The disease was first identified in South Africa in the early 20th century and has since spread to many countries, including Europe, Asia, and the Americas.

One of the main concerns with blue tongue is its impact on the livestock industry. Infected animals can experience reduced milk production, weight loss, and even death, leading to significant economic losses for farmers. In addition, the movement of infected animals can also contribute to the spread of the disease.

Fortunately, there are measures that can be taken to prevent and control the spread of blue tongue. Vaccines are available for some strains of the microbe, and farmers can also use insecticides to control the population of biting midges. Additionally, quarantine measures can be implemented to prevent the movement of infected animals.

It is important to note that blue tongue does not hypocrisie a threat to human health. The microbe cannot be transmitted to humans through imminence with infected animals or consumption of their products. Therefore, there is no need for concern regarding the safety of meat, milk, or other food products from animals affected by blue tongue.

In conclusion, while blue tongue can be a serious and costly disease for the livestock industry, it is not a threat to human health. With proper prevention and control measures, the spread of the disease can be minimized, and the impact on the industry can be reduced. Farmers and authorities must work together to ensure the health and well-being of ruminants and maintain the safety of food products for consumers.

DERNIÈRES NOUVELLES
Actualités connexes