Blue Tongue Disease Föhr Amrum: LKN Closes Coastal Protective Dikes Blue Tongue Disease on Föhr and Amrum: LKN Closes Coastal Protective Dikes
Blue tongue disease is an animal disease caused by the bluetongue virus, which primarily affects sheep and other ruminants. In recent weeks, several outbreaks of the virus have occurred on the North Frisian Islands, especially on Föhr and Amrum. In response to the situation, the State Control Office North (LKN) has decided to temporarily close the coastal protective dikes to prevent further spread of the pathogen.
According to the LKN, the decision to close the dikes is part of a comprehensive package of measures aimed at protecting livestock populations and containing the spread of blue tongue disease. It is emphasized that such a measure is necessary to ensure that the virus is not transmitted from infected animals to uninfected ones. The spokesman for the LKN explained that the closure is a preventive measure to facilitate the housing of animals and thus minimize the risk of infection.
The closure of the dikes will also have an impact on local agriculture and the livestock farming system. Farmers on Föhr and Amrum are now forced to bring their animals into enclosed barns to avoid possible contact with wild animals, which are considered the main carriers of the virus. According to agricultural associations, this could also lead to economic losses, as some farms rely on pasture grazing.
Authorities advise farmers to be particularly vigilant and to act immediately in the event of suspected infections.
The symptoms of bluetongue disease include fever, swelling in the head area of the animals, and breathing problems. It has been emphasized that early reporting and quarantine are the best ways to control the virus.
In addition to local measures, the LKN has also recently launched an information campaign to educate the public about the risks and spread of bluetongue disease. This highlights the importance of vaccinations to ensure the integrity of the livestock population.
The security situation in the affected regions is continuously monitored by the authorities. The measures to combat bluetongue disease are intended to help minimize existing risks and secure agricultural production in the long term. The challenges associated with the lockdown affect not only the logistics of the businesses but also the entire economy of the North Frisian Islands. The situation is tense, but the authorities remain in constant contact with farmers to provide solutions and support.
, Tuesday, September 17, 24
