Bluetongue Virus Detected in Eastern Denmark

Denmark has confirmed cases of the bluetongue virus in the country's east, posing a threat to ruminant animals like sheep, cows, and goats. The disease is insect-borne and carried by midges; it was first detected in early August near the German border. Authorities have informed the European Commission and started vaccinating animals to contain the outbreak.

Bluetongue serotype 3, or BTV-3, has recently been spreading across Europe, with cases also reported in Germany, the Netherlands, and France. The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration noted the high likelihood of the virus spreading nationwide due to the prevalence of mites. Symptoms in affected animals include high fever, mouth ulcers, facial swelling, and a blue tongue from lack of oxygen. Infected animals have decreased milk production, though the milk remains safe for humans. (This story was generated by Newser's AI chatbot. Source: the AP)