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Updated: May 13, 2026
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Assays for the Identification of Novel Antivirals against Bluetongue Virus
Published on: October 11, 2013
Bluetongue in Spain: from the first outbreak to 2012
A C Pérez de Diego1, P J Sánchez-Cordón, J M Sánchez-Vizcaíno
1VISAVET Health Surveillance Centre and Animal Health Department, Veterinary Faculty, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain.
Transboundary and Emerging Diseases
|March 14, 2013
Summary
Bluetongue virus (BTV) outbreaks in Spain involved multiple serotypes with varying spread patterns and origins. Future control requires polyvalent vaccines and differentiation between infected and vaccinated animals.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Virology
- Epidemiology
- Animal Health
Background:
- Spain has experienced six bluetongue virus (BTV) outbreaks since 2000.
- Introduced serotypes include BTV10, BTV2, BTV4, BTV1, and BTV8, with distinct entry routes and spread dynamics.
- BTV outbreaks have significant economic consequences, necessitating evolving control strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review bluetongue virus infection in Spain.
- To detail clinical disease, vector species, virus origins, and control measures for each BTV serotype.
- To inform future eradication strategies.
Main Methods:
- Review of historical outbreak data, serotype evolution, and geographical spread.
- Analysis of vector (Culicoides species) presence and virus origins.
- Examination of implemented control and eradication measures, including vaccination.
Main Results:
- BTV1, BTV4, and BTV10 spread widely across mainland Spain.
- BTV2 was confined to the Balearic Islands, and BTV8 showed limited spread.
- Vaccination against new serotypes was necessary upon their arrival; BTV8 cases ceased in late 2010.
Conclusions:
- Eradication strategies must prioritize polyvalent vaccines and DIVA (differentiating infected from vaccinated animals) capabilities.
- As of early 2013, Spain is a restricted area for BTV1 and BTV4, with BTV8 nearing eradication status.
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