Many Scientists are trying to understand how bluetongue is spread by studying the movements and biting habits of the midge species that transmit the virus.
Researchers from the UK’s Institute for Animal Health (IAH) say that their findings can be used to advise farmers on protecting their livestock.
The bluetongue virus has affected most parts of northern Europe since its first outbreak of on a farm in the Netherlands in 2006. The damage is estimated to have cost farmers more than £95bn in 2007.
The results are incorporated with meteorological data to create models showing what weather conditions are most likely to see the insects becoming active, and when farmers should take increased measures to protect their animals.
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