Emergence of BTV-3 in the Netherlands causing clinical signs in sheep and cattle.
- Bluetongue virus (BTV) is a vectorborne virus that emerged in the Netherlands in 2023, affecting sheep and cattle.
- The outbreak was caused by a new strain of BTV-3, leading to fever, lethargy, and other clinical signs in infected animals.
- Early detection of the outbreak was crucial, as clinical signs of BT overlap with other endemic diseases in ruminants.
- The indigenous Culicoides midges in the Netherlands were identified as competent vectors for transmitting the BTV-3 strain.
- The source and route of introduction of BTV-3/NET2023 remains unknown, requiring continuous monitoring and preventive measures to control virus circulation within the country and Europe.
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Infectious Diseases, Public Health & Prevention