Dutch farm in the blues after an attack by the Bluetongue virus

The Dutch Government has stopped exports of live sheep, cattle and goats following the attack of the virulent bluetongue virus on a farm in Kerkrade. Agriculture officials are baffled by this development as the virus is commonly found only in the Mediterranean regions. The only saving grace is the virus is of little threat to humans.

This virus can attack goats, cattle, sheep and even deer. The apparent symptoms of the disease include, a persistent fever, frothing and salivation. Insects called midges, which feed on the cattle, transmit the virus.