Due to the spread of the Blue Tongue disease in Europe, Turkey has temporarily suspended animal imports as a precautionary measure. Cases have been reported in the Netherlands, Denmark, Germany, and Italy, raising concerns about the virus's impact on livestock. This suspension aims to protect Turkey’s animal health sector from potential outbreaks, as Blue Tongue is a virus transmitted by biting insects, primarily affecting cattle and sheep.
The rapid spread of the Blue Tongue disease across Europe in the past month has nearly halted the cattle trade. With cases detected in countries like the Netherlands, Denmark, Germany, and Italy, these nations have suspended exports, and Turkey has also proactively paused all animal imports from Europe as a precaution. This measure aims to protect livestock health and prevent potential outbreaks within Turkey.
Breeding livestock producer Tarkan Gani noted that no cases have yet been reported in Poland and Hungary, though rigorous testing processes continue. Gani mentioned that businesses previously granted import permits and deposits are currently on hold, but he believes these two countries may soon reopen for imports. He emphasized that Turkey enforces some of the strictest health protocols globally and that no cases have been officially confirmed within the country. The disease, which poses no risk to humans, causes high fever and miscarriage in animals, leading to significant economic damage.
Experts are calling for stricter biosecurity measures on farms, recommending practices such as the use of lime, disposable overshoes, and protective clothing. They advise limiting external visitors and ensuring that all preventive measures are strictly enforced to protect livestock health and prevent the disease from spreading.