Bluetongue, or Neelarsana (in Hindi), is a fatal disease in animals that causes bluish patches across the entire tongue. This disease, which mostly affects ruminants, such as sheep, goats, buffalo, deer, and camels, is viral and poses no threat to humans. It is spread by the bite of Culicoides (a type of mosquito). How deadly is this disease, which animals are most at risk, what are the symptoms, and how can it be prevented? This blog will provide complete information.
The Mischief of a Tiny Insect:
Whether human or animal, the tongue often provides indications of a disease or the possibility of it developing, but bluetongue is a disease that causes the entire tongue to turn blue. It originated in Africa and gradually spread to other countries around the world. Today, even India is not immune to the danger of this disease. It is spread by certain insects, particularly biting midges of the Culicoides species, which are commonly found in watery or marshy areas. Animals become infected with the BT virus (BTV) by biting infected animals after feeding on their blood. It is not contagious, meaning the disease cannot spread from one animal to another without a carrier. Twenty-eight serotypes of BTV have been reported worldwide, 23 of which are from India. The disease-causing ability of each strain varies significantly.
How deadly is it for sheep?
The severity of the disease varies among species, but symptoms are most severe in sheep. Sheep often experience higher rates of infection, resulting in weight loss, reduced wool production, and even death if the disease is ignored. Although cattle and goats can also be infected, they often show no clinical signs or only mild illness.
What is the cause?
Common causes of blue tongue in sheep and goats include the bite of small biting insects called midges, which act as carriers of the blue tongue virus. Areas with warm and moist environmental conditions favor the breeding and spread of the midges responsible for transmitting the virus. Different strains, or serotypes, of the blue tongue virus (BTV) exist, which influence the severity and impact of the disease.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms in infected animals include persistent fever, elevated body temperature, dark hemorrhages in the mouth and nasal tissues, a “blue” tongue resulting in cyanosis, excessive salivation, diarrhea and vomiting, swelling of the lips, tongue, and jaw, swelling of the coronary band (above the hoof), lameness, arching of the body, weakness, depression, weight loss, abortion in pregnant sheep, and stunted wool growth in sheep.
How to prevent and protect?
Preventing Blue Tongue in sheep and goats involves several key measures, including vaccinations targeting prevalent virus strains. Managing breeding grounds and controlling midge populations using insecticides can limit transmission. Sick animals should be kept separate from healthy animals. If any suspicion arises, consult a qualified veterinarian immediately.
How does Rigmin- Forte protect against viruses?
A powerful immunity booster helps your animals protect against viruses. Rigmin-Forte powder is a mineral mixture that boosts immunity. It is an excellent mineral mixture for cows, buffaloes, goats, and other livestock. When regularly fed with feed, it provides animals with all the essential minerals and vitamins. This contributes to healthy animals and increases their productivity.