The Central Veterinary Laboratory in Algete has identified this pathogen, belonging to the Orthobunyavirus genus, as the cause of the drop in milk production observed by farmers in the Los Pedroches region.
Currently, there is no specific vaccine to combat this disease. Therefore, health authorities recommend intensifying control measures against the Culicoides vector, using repellents and insecticides, in addition to applying symptomatic veterinary treatments to affected animals.
Acute infections in cattle usually manifest with fever, diarrhea, and a reduction in milk production of between 10% and 20% for a period of seven to ten days. Although morbidity can be high, most adult animals manage to recover.
Representatives from the Regional Government of Andalusia and the Covap cooperative have held meetings with local producers to coordinate monitoring and maintain constant contact regarding the evolution of this animal health issue.
