Crisis Unfolds in Granada's Livestock Farming Community

Bluetongue disease is ravaging livestock farmers in Granada province, southern Spain, and the toll is alarming. The outbreak, first detected in Órgiva, has left a shocking 80% of the local livestock—approximately 650 animals—affected. Tragically, ten animals have already succumbed to the disease, with eight sheep and two goats reported dead.

The Lethal Nature of Serotype 03

Experts are on high alert, as serotype 03 of the bluetongue virus has emerged as particularly lethal. It is already reported in at least 28 herds across Granada, with three cases confirmed. In a recent visit by SUR’s sister publication, Ideal, to the troubled Órgiva farm, the distress among farmers was palpable.

Conditions on the Farm: A Farmer’s Despair

Oliberto Romero, a seasoned farmer with over 400 sheep and 200 goats, describes the grim reality: "Even the wool is changing from the fever, and the hooves are affected. Their temperature skyrockets; they can’t move or drink because their tongues swell up. It’s devastating. Many suffocate, and abortions are common,” he explained.

Oliberto recalls a heart-wrenching month of witnessing the healthy sheep suddenly fall ill overnight, often ending up swollen and lifeless. Beyond the ten deaths, he worries about potential losses from abortions, estimating a loss of up to 1,000 euros just for the dead animals. "It’s a disaster. Between the losses of my livestock and the potential miscarriages, this could ruin us."

Struggles for Support and Recovery

While veterinary authorities maintain that the disease is not contagious and does not affect the quality of meat, Oliberto feels the pressure. He expresses frustration over a lack of support from the administration, which advises sheep vaccination against serotypes 03 and 08. However, he stresses that his herd is only vaccinated against 01 and 04, and without the necessary resources, recovery seems elusive.

Another Farm Faces Bluetongue Outbreak

A second outbreak has erupted in Almegíjar, near Torvizcón. There, José Miguel García, a livestock farmer with 350 animals, predicts a grim outcome. The bluetongue strain has already claimed 34 of his animals.

Having weathered past outbreaks, he recalls significant losses from previous years, but now he faces a more potent serotype. José Miguel produces high-quality lamb; however, the setbacks from this disease could amount to losses near 12,000 euros.

The Call for Aid and Change

As both farmers experience the devastation of bluetongue, they highlight a crucial point: support and resources from the authorities are essential. José Miguel urges for assistance, emphasizing, "Bluetongue doesn’t just impact those of us who are unfortunate; it could destroy livelihoods and heritage."