Cattle and sheep farmers must vaccinate against two types of bluetongue in 2025
Cattle and sheep farmers in Belgium will be required to vaccinate their animals against serotypes 3 and 8 of the bluetongue virus from January. In addition, cattle must receive an injection to protect against epizootic hemorrhagic disease. The plenary session of the Chamber unanimously approved a bill on the issue on Thursday, introduced by francophone liberal party MR.
Outgoing deputy prime minister David Clarinval spearheaded the initiative after consulting agricultural organisations. “The bluetongue virus caused heavy losses among Belgian cattle and sheep farmers last year,” he said.
The outbreak, linked to serotype 3 of the virus, originated in the Netherlands and proved more aggressive than previous strains. Despite the availability of a vaccine for this strain, vaccination has remained voluntary until now.
To encourage compliance and alleviate financial burdens, the government will provide 40 million euros in compensation to farmers. Clarinval: “This measure ensures that farmers are not left to bear the costs of protecting their livestock alone.”
© PHOTO LEITENBERGER S / ANDBZ
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