Schmallenberg virus worrying Europe's farmers

Subscribe to our channel http://bit.ly/AJSubscribe

Subscribe to our channel http://bit.ly/AJSubscribe


The Schmallenberg virus, named after a town in Germany, has become a cause for concern for farmers in Europe.

It is thought animals are infected with the virus when pregnant, by being bitten by tiny flues common to farms across Europe, called midges.

One farmer lost around 80 animals over the winter period due to either miscarriages or deformations caused by the virus.

If they have the virus, the animals can suffer from major abnormalities, their heads pointing backwards, or their feet splayed in such a way that they cannot be born.

Al Jazeera’s Nick Spicer reports from southern Germany.

At Al Jazeera English, we focus on people and events that affect people's lives. We bring topics to light that often go under-reported, listening to all sides of the story and giving a 'voice to the voiceless.'
Reaching more than 270 million households in over 140 countries across the globe, our viewers trust Al Jazeera English to keep them informed, inspired, and entertained.
Our impartial, fact-based reporting wins worldwide praise and respect. It is our unique brand of journalism that the world has come to rely on.
We are reshaping global media and constantly working to strengthen our reputation as one of the world's most respected news and current affairs channels.

Social Media links:

Facebook:   / aljazeera  
Instagram: https://instagram.com/aljazeera/?ref=...
Twitter:   / ajenglish  
Website: http://www.aljazeera.com/
google+: https://plus.google.com/+aljazeera/posts