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A new strain of the bluetongue virus has been detected in a sheep in Kockengen, Netherlands. Wageningen Bioveterinary Research (WBVR) and the European Bluetongue Reference Laboratory identified the virus as bluetongue serotype BTV-12. Subsequent testing in the area revealed that a cow also tested positive for BTV-12. The cow calved in September, and its calf is currently being tested for the virus. Dutch agriculture minister Femke Wiersma has ordered a review of all bluetongue-positive samples in the country since 1 September to check for BTV-12. The origins of BTV-12 remain unclear, but farmers are urged to report any suspicions to the authorities. The National Sheep Association (NSA) in the UK has expressed concerns about the rapid emergence of BTV-12 following the development of a vaccine for BTV-3. Climate Change and increased global trade highlight the need for improved biosecurity measures in response to evolving threats.
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Maria Sanchez completed her Bachelor’s degree in Plant Sciences from the University of California, Davis, in the USA. Her studies focused on plant genetics and biotechnology, with an emphasis on developing disease-resistant crop varieties. Maria has contributed to several research projects aimed at improving crop resilience to climate change and is now pursuing her Master’s degree in Plant Breeding.
