Bluetongue is a non-contagious viral disease that can infect most ruminants, sheep being especially susceptible to infection. A virus of the genus Orbivirus causes the disease. It is transmitted by insects of the genus Culicoides, meaning this disease is closely related to the seasonal presence of the insect. Up to 24 different serotypes of the virus have been described.

The infection in ruminants is prolonged, but not persistent. It presents a fever profile, characterized by lesions with congestion and haemorrhage in the oral mucosa, hooves and muscles, coupled with the development of erosions and ulcerations.

This disease causes heavy losses to farmers and communities as a whole.

Bluetongue disease is present on almost all continents, and is currently on the rise in northern Europe.

Laboratory diagnosis is based on the identification of the virus from blood and tissues samples, as well as the detection of antibodies in non-vaccinated animals.

There is no effective treatment to cure this disease. Vaccination is the best way to prevent the disease and control its spread. Vaccines are designed to protect against specific serotypes of the virus. There are vaccines that offer protection against a specific serotype, and others that protect against multiple serotypes simultaneously.