in Calvados, the stress of this dairy sheep breeder

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Dairy sheep breeder in Curcy-sur-Orne (Calvados), Patrick Hamelin testifies to the arrival of bluetongue (FCO) and its impact on its animals.

“Historically, the stereotype 8 virus (FCO 8) has been present in the territory since 2008. It became widespread in the South, but the animals became resistant“, explains the person concerned.

A variant (FCO 3) is arriving via the Benelux this year, with a different virulence. “The resistance is no longer the same, there is a lot of damage, especially for the sheep. Thousands died. »

Four cases of bluetongue detected in Orne?

Patrick Hamelin performed the vaccine for stereotype 3 for his 100 sheep. “It is the most urgent, because the closest,” assures the breeder who was unable to vaccinate his 15 goats, due to a lack of validated treatment: “it is only for sheep or cattle.”

If the Calvadosian indicates that he is stressed by the arrival of these viruses, he sees several reasons for hope. “The spread will calm down as temperatures drop. »

In the meantime, the wave is strong and “ four cases would be detected in the department,” according to our interlocutor.

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