Bluetongue (BT) was first described in South Africa during the 1800s after the importation of Merino sheep. It has probably always been endemic in antelope and other game.
Indigenous sheep breeds, cattle and antelope are frequently infected, but rarely show clinical signs, whereas improved European sheep breeds are most susceptible, according to research.
Caused by the bluetongue virus (BTV), the disease occurs throughout the country during the summer rainy season when the biting midges that carry the virus are active in vleis, pans, rivers and around dams, particularly between sunset and sunrise.
PREVENTION
There are more than 20 different strains of BTV, with no crossimmunity between them, so they must all be included in the vaccine.
Many farmers choose not to vaccinate; they take the obvious risk of being hit hard, but hope there won’t be too many midges around.
Denne historien er fra Farmer's Weekly 17 March 2023-utgaven av Farmer's Weekly.
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Denne historien er fra Farmer's Weekly 17 March 2023-utgaven av Farmer's Weekly.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
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THE HITCHING POST
I'm a stylish elderly lady with a radiant glow and a good sense of humour that keeps me young at heart.
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Global grain outlook: 2024/25 marketing season
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