Belgium Confirms Bluetongue Serotype 8 Cases in 2025, Mandates Vaccination

Bluetongue Serotype 8 Confirmed in Belgium

Belgium has officially confirmed the first cases of bluetongue serotype 8 (BTV8) within its borders in 2025. This confirmation marks a significant development, resulting in the immediate loss of the country's BTV8-free status and initiating a series of measures to control the spread of the disease among livestock. The re-emergence of BTV8 adds to the challenges faced by Belgian farmers, who have already contended with outbreaks of bluetongue serotype 3 (BTV3) in recent years.

Mandatory Vaccination Program Initiated

In response to the escalating threat posed by bluetongue viruses, Belgium implemented a mandatory vaccination program for cattle and sheep farmers starting in January 2025. This directive requires the vaccination of animals against both serotype 3 and serotype 8 of the bluetongue virus. The initiative, spearheaded by outgoing deputy prime minister David Clarinval, followed consultations with agricultural organizations and aims to mitigate the severe losses experienced by farmers due to previous outbreaks. The government has committed 40 million euros in compensation to farmers to help alleviate the financial burden of vaccination, ensuring that they are not solely responsible for protecting their livestock.

Impact on Livestock Movement and Trade

The confirmation of BTV8 cases and the subsequent loss of BTV8-free status are expected to have considerable implications for livestock movement and trade. Bluetongue is a notifiable disease, and its presence often leads to restrictions on the movement of susceptible animals and their products. While specific 2025 Belgian movement restrictions directly linked to BTV8 were not immediately detailed, the broader European context indicates that such outbreaks necessitate stringent controls. For instance, in 2025, the United Kingdom expanded its bluetongue restriction zone across England, and Wales introduced specific movement licenses and compulsory pre-movement testing for cattle and sheep entering from England. These measures are typical responses to contain the spread of the virus, which is primarily transmitted by biting midges (Culicoides spp.).

Understanding Bluetongue Serotype 8

Bluetongue is a non-contagious, insect-borne viral disease that primarily affects ruminants such as sheep, cattle, goats, and deer. BTV8 is particularly concerning due to its potential for severe disease and mortality in cattle, a characteristic that distinguished its initial emergence in northern Europe in 2006. Clinical signs in affected animals can vary but commonly include:

• Fever
• Swelling of the lips, tongue, head, and neck
• Ulcers or sores in the mouth and nose
• Excessive salivation and nasal discharge
• Lameness
• In severe cases, the tongue may appear blue (cyanotic)

The virus is not transmitted directly from animal to animal but through the bite of infected midges, with peak midge populations occurring during late summer and autumn.