Urgent Plea from Farmers as Bluetongue Virus Cases Surge in Spain
Farmers in Spain call for urgent government action as bluetongue virus cases rise in 21 provinces.
Key Points
- • UPA requests urgent meeting with the Ministry of Agriculture regarding bluetongue cases.
- • 21 provinces in Spain affected, with serotypes 1, 3, and 8 involved.
- • Cases have risen since June 23, affecting multiple provinces.
- • Ministry of Agriculture emphasizes the importance of vaccination for livestock.
In light of a troubling surge in bluetongue virus infections across Spain, the Unión de Pequeños Agricultores y Ganaderos (UPA) has pressed for an urgent meeting with the Ministry of Agriculture. The request comes as the bluetongue virus affects 21 Spanish provinces, notably including Málaga, Cádiz, Sevilla, and Córdoba.
As of July 31, 2025, UPA reported that cases have significantly increased since the recirculation of serotype 3 was confirmed in Málaga on June 23. The disease, which affects livestock—particularly sheep—has been identified with serotypes 1, 3, and 8 present in the current outbreak. UPA highlights the challenges faced by farmers due to the disease's rapid spread, urging government intervention to assist the agricultural sector in managing this crisis.
The Ministry of Agriculture has responded by emphasizing the critical need for vaccination of livestock, particularly vulnerable sheep, to mitigate the impact of the bluetongue virus. The situation underscores the agricultural community's urgent call for support and resources to curb the outbreak and protect the livelihoods of farmers.
This increase in bluetongue cases presents a significant concern not only for animal health but also for the agricultural economy, as farmers face immense difficulties in safeguarding their livestock against the virus. A timely response from the Ministry could play a vital role in addressing the escalating situation and ensuring the well-being of the agricultural sector.
UPA's request for an urgent meeting seeks to facilitate dialogue and strategize solutions to this pressing issue, as farmers look to government action to combat the spread of bluetongue and safeguard their agricultural interests.