As a subject matter expert in the field of virology, I can provide you with an accurate explanation of how the bluetongue virus is spread.

Bluetongue virus (BTV) is primarily spread by biting midges, specifically from the genus *Culicoides*. These insects acquire the virus when they take a blood meal from an infected animal, typically ruminants like sheep, goats, and cattle. After an incubation period within the midge, the virus is then transmitted to other susceptible animals during subsequent blood meals. The transmission is more efficient in certain environmental conditions, particularly when temperatures are warmer and humidity is higher, which favor the breeding and survival of the midges.

In addition to insect transmission, bluetongue can also spread through other mechanisms such as:

1. Mechanical transmission: This can occur when contaminated objects, like farm equipment or clothing, are moved from an infected area to a non-infected one.

2. Livestock movement: The movement of infected animals, either intentionally for trade or accidentally, can introduce the virus to new areas.

3. Artificial insemination: There is evidence that BTV can be transmitted through contaminated semen used in artificial insemination.

It's important to note that bluetongue is not a human pathogen, so it does not pose a risk to human health.

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Bluetongue virus is spread by insects called biting midges (Culicoides spp.). (vector). Other biting insects, such as ticks or sheep keds, may also transfer the virus. Bluetongue is not contagious and is not spread by contact between animals.read more >>