What is Bluetongue disease and what causes it?

Bluetongue is a non-contagious, viral disease that spread by biting insects. It affects species of ruminants, particularly sheep. Bluetongue causes many different symptoms in affected animals, including ulcers, sores, painful hooves, lameness, and reproductive problems. Affected animals can have swelling of the tongue (“bluetongue”) which can cause breathing difficulties. The disease occurs worldwide.