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Updated: Jun 10, 2026
12:02
Assays for the Identification of Novel Antivirals against Bluetongue Virus
Published on: October 11, 2013
Infection with bluetongue virus serotype 8 in Sweden in 2008
S Sternberg Lewerin1, G Hallgren, K Mieziewska
1Department of Disease Control and Epidemiology, National Veterinary Institute, 75 189 Uppsala, Sweden. susanna.lewerin@sva.se
The Veterinary Record
|August 3, 2010
Summary
Bluetongue virus was first detected in Sweden in 2008, prompting extensive surveillance and vaccination efforts. The virus spread across southern Sweden despite low vector activity and no apparent clinical signs.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Epidemiology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Bluetongue virus (BTV) poses a significant threat to livestock, particularly ruminants.
- Previous outbreaks in Northern Europe necessitated heightened biosecurity and surveillance in Sweden.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report the initial detection and subsequent spread of bluetongue virus in Sweden.
- To describe the surveillance and control measures implemented following the detection.
Main Methods:
- Active and passive surveillance using serology and PCR in ruminants.
- Intensified vector surveillance activities.
- National vaccination campaign focused on southern Sweden.
Main Results:
- Bluetongue virus was first confirmed in Sweden on September 6, 2008.
- The infection spread widely across southern Sweden between September and October 2008.
- Low vector activity, low viral load, and absence of clinical signs were noted.
- Transplacental transmission was identified in one instance.
Conclusions:
- The initial detection of bluetongue virus in Sweden highlighted the need for rapid and comprehensive surveillance and control strategies.
- The findings underscore the potential for BTV spread even under conditions of low vector density and subclinical infection.
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