Due to a new outbreak of bluetongue (BCF) in Tarn-et-Garonne, the regulated zone now includes the entire department of Aveyron to prevent the spread of this viral disease among ruminants.
An outbreak of bluetongue (BCF), detected in the department of Tarn-et-Garonne, led to an extension of the regulated zone by 150 km around the existing outbreaks, now covering the entire department of Aveyron. This measure aims to limit the spread of bluetongue serotype 3 (FCO-3), a strain of the disease which has recently spread from the north of French territory, after first spreading to the Netherlands. Low and in Belgium.
According to the latest situation update published this Wednesday, October 30 by the Ministry of Agriculture, 7,122 FCO outbreaks are now recorded in France, the vast majority in the north-east of the country.
Fatal cases
FCO, also known as “blue tongue disease”, is caused by a virus which mainly affects ruminants, such as sheep, cattle and goats, and is transmitted by midges, Culicoides. Although it does not affect humans either through direct contact or through consumption of infected animal products, FCO causes high fever, runny noses, and in the most severe cases, death in animals.
Already affected by the partial establishment of this regulated zone two weeks ago following outbreaks in Corrèze and Ardèche, Aveyron is now entirely subject to animal movement restrictions. The aim of this zone is to limit the spread of the disease and to guarantee the continuity of trade.
A strategy of struggle
In August 2024, the Ministry of Agriculture implemented a strategy to combat FCO-3, launching a national vaccination campaign for cattle and sheep, with full financial support for sheep farmers. According to the Aveyron prefecture, this free vaccination is crucial to “stem the development of FCO-3 and preserve the health of herds”, thus helping to maintain the viability of French breeding.
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