Bluetongue disease has already affected at least 279 cattle and sheep farms, mainly in the Alentejo region of Évora and Beja, and has caused the death of 1,775 animals. Latest figures available, reported on Monday, show that 41 cattle farms have been affected, with 102 animals affected and no deaths.In the case of sheep, there are 238 farms and 11,934 animals affected with 1,775 dead. Bluetongue is an infectious viral disease that cannot be transmitted to humans, explains Lusa. According to EU regulations it is a “category C disease” which means it does not have a compulsory eradication programme. In other words, there are no health culls planned – but authorities do have to ‘move’ on prevention, which the ministry of agriculture today says will be happening imminently.
