New Bluetongue Disease Detected in Bunyola: Government Declares Emergency Plan

Emergency in Bunyola: Bluetongue Disease Strikes Sheep Flock

\n

Early this week, a call came into the municipality: A shepherd in the area north of Bunyola noticed several animals appearing lethargic, with drooling and swollen muzzles. Blood samples soon confirmed the worst – a form of bluetongue disease (BTV) was detected in a flock of about 150 sheep.

\n\n

What the Authorities Are Doing Now

\n

The Balearic government has reacted and declared a state of emergency. Within a ten-kilometer radius of the affected farm, measures were immediately imposed. This affects, among other areas, parts of Palma and Marratxí — a situation some farmers here take with a resigned sigh.

\n\n

Vaccination is now the top priority. Mobile teams are on their way to immunize animals as quickly as possible. The vaccination campaign is being organized so that farm owners do not have to wait for hours in the sun: appointments, brief checks, and then the vaccination. The government has provided additional veterinarians and equipment to speed up the operation.

\n\n

What This Means for Humans and Animals

\n

Good news for us humans: according to current knowledge, bluetongue disease poses no danger to human health. For livestock, however, infection can have serious consequences. Typical signs include fever, facial swelling, excessive drooling, and lameness – in some cases the disease is fatal or leads to significant losses.

\n\n

Particularly vexing: the virus is transmitted by tiny gnats (Culicoides mosquitoes), which are now active again with somewhat cooler autumn weather. Animal owners are asked to close stables in the evening hours, use nets, and report dead animals immediately.

\n\n

Practical Tips for Farmers

\n

If you keep animals: Report unusual symptoms immediately to the veterinary office, keep movement lists ready, and follow the instructions of the mobile vaccination teams. There are temporary restrictions on the transport of sheep, goats, and cattle from the restricted area — please adhere to them; it helps slow the spread.

\n\n

Many neighbors who usually have little to do with sheep farming are affected: At the market in Bunyola, it was the number one topic of conversation, between coffee and bocadillo. It is a small, visible moment where rural work and urban life meet.

\n\n

We will keep you updated as soon as there is new information about vaccination appointments, restricted zones, or further cases.