Bluetongue disease cases confirmed in Spanish livestock

New cases of Bluetongue disease, specifically serotype 3, have been confirmed in several regions of Spain during the 2026-2027 vector activity season. In La Rioja, a single case was detected in a cattle farm in the Alfaro region. Notably, the detection occurred during routine export controls rather than through clinical symptoms in the animals.

In Asturias, the first case of the year was identified in Tineo, affecting two cattle. The presence of the virus was ratified by the Central Veterinary Laboratory of Algete. Authorities have implemented preventive measures to limit the circulation of the virus, which is transmitted to ruminants via Culicoides midges.

According to the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (MAPA), the virus is circulating in multiple provinces. Confirmed outbreaks include cattle in A Coruña, Huesca, Lugo, La Rioja, and Seguroa, as well as sheep in Guipúzcoa, Navarra, Álava, and Badajoz. The Ministry emphasizes that while the disease does not pose a risk to human health, vaccination and parasite control are essential to mitigate sanitary and productive impacts on livestock.