Bluetongue
This is a viral disease spread by midge bites.
This is a viral disease spread by midge bites.
Bluetongue is caused by a virus and is spread by midges.
The disease may be mild in deer and they may not show any outward signs. However, deer can act as a reservoir for the disease, which may then spread to domestic livestock.
Bluetongue restricts the blood supply to the tongue and lips, turning them blue or even black and giving the disease its name.
Other signs of the disease include:
The susceptibility of deer to the disease depends on:
Epizootic haemorrhagic disease is similar to bluetongue and is caused by a virus related to BTV.
Visit the Scottish Government's web page on bluetongue to learn more about the clinical signs. There is also information on the current disease situation in Scotland and guidance on biosecurity (measures to prevent the disease).