Bluetongue Virus (BTV): Transmission, Symptoms and Prevention

Category: Science, Health and Animal Husbandry

UPSC Notes

Bluetongue is a viral disease affecting domestic and wild ruminants, particularly sheep, cattle, goats, buffaloes and deer. It is caused by the bluetongue virus, which belongs to the family Reoviridae.

Transmission

  • Spread mainly through bites of infected Culicoides biting midges.

  • It is vector-borne and is not ordinarily spread through direct animal-to-animal contact.

  • Disease severity varies according to the animal species and virus strain.

  • Sheep may develop fever, swelling of the lips and tongue, oral lesions and lameness.

Prevention and control

  • Vaccination with a vaccine appropriate to the circulating strain.

  • Surveillance and early detection.

  • Insect-vector control and movement restrictions where appropriate.

  • Veterinary monitoring of susceptible livestock.

Key Pointers for UPSC

  • Causative agent: Bluetongue virus (BTV).

  • Vector: Culicoides biting midges.

  • Affected animals: Ruminants.

  • Human health: Bluetongue is not considered a human health risk.

  • The disease is important for livestock productivity, veterinary surveillance and international animal trade.