France hopes vaccine blitz will contain bluetongue threat worrying farmers
France has rolled out a free vaccination plan to protect the nation’s sheep, cattle and goat herds after a new strain of bluetongue virus was detected in the country's north, causing panic among farmers.
The virus, which affects livestock, has been confirmed in three regions – Nord, Aisne and Ardennes – raising concerns of a broader outbreak that could significantly impact the agricultural sector.
Carried by tiny biting insects called midges, the virus causes symptoms such as fever, mouth ulcers, and difficulty breathing in infected animals. In severe cases, it can be fatal.
In response, the French government is distributing 6.4 million doses of vaccine to regions most impacted by the newly identified BTV3 serotype (FCO-BTV3). The vaccine drive includes 1.1 million single doses for sheep and 5.3 million doses for cattle, which will receive two doses.
To contain the outbreak, a 150-kilometre regulated zone around the affected areas has been established.
Economic repercussions
Livestock within the zone must undergo insecticide treatments and pass health tests before they can be moved – a measure that makes it difficult for farmers to sell or transport their animals.
"The bluetongue virus does not affect humans or the quality of meat and milk, but its economic repercussions can be significant, including the closure of foreign markets," the Foreign Ministry said on its website.
Read more on RFI English
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