Bluetongue outbreak kills 10 sheep and goats in Pera Orinis, Nicosia district
Bluetongue disease has caused the death of ten animals at a sheep and goat farm in Pera Orinis, Nicosia district, marking the first outbreak in the area this year and the third in Cyprus within a year. Thirty-nine out of the farm’s 624 sheep and goats have been infected, contributing to a total of 45 infected animals out of 781 susceptible livestock across the island.
The outbreak, confirmed through laboratory tests on September 14 and 15, is attributed to serotype 4 of the Bluetongue virus (BTV-4). This virus spreads exclusively through the bites of Culicoides midges and not via direct contact between animals. Veterinary Services are actively implementing control measures against these insects, urging farmers to apply insect repellents, spray animal shelters, and keep livestock indoors during peak insect activity.
Bluetongue affects only ruminants and poses no risk to humans; dairy and meat products remain safe for consumption. Symptoms in infected animals include high fever, swelling, nasal discharge, mouth sores, difficulty walking, and miscarriages.
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