Bluetongue disease, a virus affecting livestock, can wreak havoc for farmers. A new vaccine promises to make the fight against it cheaper and more effective.

Green light for new bluetongue vaccine

It may be hard to believe,  but spring is on its way.

For livestock farmers this means  their animals can finally leave the stables.

transmitted by insects  that reappear with the warmth.

Bluetongue, transmitted by midges, is an  example which has, in the last two decades,

regularly harmed animals and farmers’  livelihoods in many EU countries.

The farmers are suffering,  so are the people and the animals.

Countries which don't have bluetongue  don't buy any animals for breeding

from countries which have  or might have the disease.

But, a new vaccine promises to  revolutionise the fight against bluetongue.

After much debate, the EU has put in place  a framework legislation for its clearance.

Because it doesn't use the live virus,  it can be used without risk of contagion.

For the farmers it will be possible  to reduce their costs,

for example, for the separation  of vaccinated and non-vaccinated animals.

Member States will still have to incorporate  the new rules into national law

but if they do it speedily, it might still just be  in time for the upcoming season,

as the vaccination has to applied  in early spring.

And it might be worth it not only  for reasons of animal welfare.

It'll have positive economic  consequences for affected businesses,

which got into serious difficulties through  the disease outbreak, as well as breeders.