Emerging Vector-Borne Viral Diseases in Ruminants: Drivers, Transmission, and Control Strategies

The field of vector-borne viral diseases in ruminants has seen significant changes over the past few decades due to factors such as climate change, globalization, and intensified human activities like farming and land-use changes. These factors have expanded the distribution and altered the behavior of arthropod vectors, leading to the (re-)emergence and extensive spread of diseases that impact ruminant health. The economic consequences of these diseases are substantial, including direct veterinary costs, reduced productivity, and the need for disease control measures. Historically confined to tropical and subtropical regions, these diseases are now increasingly reported in temperate areas. Notable examples include bluetongue (BT) and epizootic hemorrhagic disease (EHD), which have emerged or re-emerged in Europe, posing new threats to ruminant welfare and agricultural economies. Despite ongoing research, gaps remain in understanding the drivers of these diseases, their transmission dynamics, and effective control strategies.

This research topic aims to explore the emerging vector-borne viruses in ruminants, focusing on diseases such as bluetongue, epizootic hemorrhagic disease, and others like Rift Valley Fever, bovine ephemeral fever, and Schmallenberg virus. The main objectives are to identify the factors driving the emergence and spread of these diseases, understand their transmission mechanisms, and develop effective prevention and control strategies. Specific questions include: What are the primary drivers of these emerging diseases? How do changes in vector behaviour and distribution affect disease transmission? What are the most effective diagnostic and control methods?

To gather further insights into the complexities of vector-borne viral diseases in ruminants, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:
- Drivers of disease emergence and re-emergence
- Transmission dynamics and vector behaviour
- Prevention and control strategies
- Diagnostic methods and technologies
- Impact of climate change and globalization
- Economic and zoonotic implications
- Case studies of outbreaks and management strategies
- Advances in virology, entomology, and epidemiology related to these diseases

Keywords: vectors, viral disease, ruminants

Important Note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.