The rapid spread of the serotype 3 strain of Bluetongue disease, also known as ovine catarrhal fever, is causing significant concern across Europe.

Since its first detection in Germany in October 2023, the disease has escalated to 1,885 outbreaks in Germany alone by August 2024. The virus, which affects sheep, cattle, and goats, is not transmissible to humans but causes severe symptoms in animals, including fever, respiratory issues, and sometimes death.

France has reported 41 outbreaks across six northern departments, prompting the government to establish a regulated zone and initiate a targeted vaccination campaign.

The disease has also been detected in the Netherlands, Belgium, and the UK, with the Netherlands reporting over 3,800 outbreaks.

European authorities are working to authorize vaccines to curb the spread, with emergency measures already in place in affected regions.