Overview
- Germany’s Friedrich‑Loeffler‑Institut confirmed BTV‑8 in a cow in Meißen, the first detection of this subtype in Saxony since 2009.
- Authorities designated a restriction zone covering large parts of southern Brandenburg and segments of Berlin, Saxony, Saxony‑Anhalt and Thuringia.
- Transfers of cattle, sheep and other susceptible animals from the zone are banned or allowed only under strict conditions for movements within Germany, to EU member states or to third countries.
- Berlin’s administration says the city lies inside the infected zone, which is defined as the area within 150 kilometres of an outbreak.
- Veterinary bodies recommend vaccination against BTV‑8 in addition to BTV‑3 and call for vigilant reporting of suspect signs; the virus affects ruminants, is spread by biting midges and is harmless to humans.