New cattle virus detected in Switzerland, Germany and France – assessing the risk to Lithuania

Based on information from veterinary authorities in other countries, the State Food and Veterinary Service (VMVT) reports that, since July this year, the first few cases of a new viral disease in cattle have been detected in Germany, Switzerland and France. The disease is caused by viruses of the Orthobunyavirus genus. These viruses are transmitted by tiny blood-sucking midges of the genus Culicoides. 

The same midges also transmit the Schmallenberg and bluetongue viruses in Europe. Although these new viruses are commonly found in Africa, Asia and Australia, their detection in Central Europe is considered unusual from a geographical perspective. There is no obligation to report outbreaks of this disease to the European Commission or the World Organisation for Animal Health. No animal deaths specifically attributable to this disease have been recorded in the affected countries.  

This virus poses no risk to humans 

Affected animals typically experience a short-lived fever (lasting one or two days), diarrhoea, a marked reduction in milk production and a loss of appetite. The symptoms of the disease usually last for 2–3 weeks. Although no animal deaths linked to this virus have been recorded in the affected countries, infection during the oestrus period in females can lead to reproductive losses – premature birth, miscarriages or foetal malformations. 

The State Food and Veterinary Service (VMVT) is constantly monitoring emerging information on new animal health threats and their potential spread across Europe. At present, the virus has only been detected in Central and Western Europe (Germany, France and Switzerland). 

“We currently assess the risk of the virus entering Lithuania as low, but we cannot rule it out entirely. Lithuania is home to midges of the genus Culicoides that are capable of transmitting this virus, and their activity peaks in late summer and early autumn. The risk would increase if the disease were detected closer to Lithuania or if infected animals were brought into the country“,” – says Vaidotas Kiudulas, Chief Veterinary Officer of the Republic of Lithuania. 

Possible routes of virus entry include the import of infected ruminants, the transport of infected midges via vehicles, and the gradual spread of the virus via insects from one region to another. However, experts emphasise that there is currently insufficient scientific data on the prevalence of the virus and its ability to replicate in different Culicoides species. 

The State Food and Veterinary Service (VMVT) is warning farmers to remain vigilant 

The VMVT urges keepers of cattle, sheep and goats to closely monitor the health of their livestock and recommends: 

• monitor the animals and look out for fever, diarrhoea, loss of appetite and a sudden drop in milk yield; 
• to record any cases of abortion, stillbirths or the birth of malformed offspring; 
• minimise livestock’s contact with blood-sucking midges, particularly at dawn and dusk; 
• remove standing water, damp bedding, and accumulations of manure and slurry where insects may breed; 
• when purchasing animals from abroad, check their origin and health status, and, where possible, keep newly arrived animals in temporary isolation; 
• if you notice any unusual signs of illness or reproductive disorders, contact a private veterinary surgeon immediately and inform the State Food and Veterinary Service.