Modelling locations at risks for potential vectors of bluetongue using satellite imagery : Emergence of bluetongue disease in Corsica and the Mediterranean basin

Bluetongue is an infectious disease of ruminants-but severe disease usually occurs only in sheep-caused by a virus transmitted by Culicoides spp. (biting midges). Following recent epizootics (1998-2002) in the Mediterranean basin, "it can be said that the dreaded bluetongue is a viral emergent in Mediterranean ruminants". (Federation of American Scientists, October 2001). Culicoides imicola is considered the major vector in Europe but other Culicoides spp. could perhaps play a significant role in the epidemiology of bluetongue. As bluetongue could have huge economic importance, it appears essential to develop predictive models with the aim of improving and refining surveillance systems. (Résumé d'auteur