Bluetongue disease, a viral infection affecting ruminants like cattle and sheep, is rapidly spreading in Germany, particularly in North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW) and now in Thuringia.

The disease, transmitted by midges, has led to over 1,470 outbreaks in NRW alone, with significant livestock losses reported.

Despite increased vaccination efforts, with over 259,600 animals vaccinated, the outbreak continues to escalate.

In Thuringia, the disease has been detected in individual sheep, marking the state's loss of its disease-free status.

The hot and humid summer conditions have exacerbated the spread, prompting calls for more vaccinations and insect repellent use.

While the disease poses no threat to humans, it remains a severe concern for animal health and the agricultural economy.