Epidemic hits bison breeding station in Switzerland

Several animals at the Swiss breeding station for endangered European bison in Suchy, canton Vaud, have contracted bluetongue. One bison cow died from the disease, which is transmitted by stinging insects. +Get the most important news from Switzerland in your inbox The disease was first detected in a bull at the breeding station on October 20, the Association of European Bisons in Suchy Forest said on Sunday. The animal was treated with anti-inflammatories and recovered. Afterwards, two females also fell ill. One of them also recovered, but the second died on Friday after complications, according to the press release. + Will a project to reintroduce European bison into Swiss forests work? There have been repeated outbreaks of bluetongue, which is not directly contagious, in Switzerland since 2007. It can affect all ruminants. It is not dangerous for humans. In affected animals, it leads to fever, breathing difficulties, signs of paralysis and miscarriages. Many animals die. There ...