Bluetongue (BT) is an arthropod-borne viral disease of domestic and wild ruminants, transmitted exclusively by Culicoides biting midges. The causative agent BTV, belongs to the genus Orbivirus within the family Sedoreoviridae and has a segmented double-stranded RNA genome. To date, 36 serotypes, including several atypical ones, have been identified worldwide. The disease has major veterinary and economic significance, particularly in sheep, where it can cause high morbidity and mortality, while cattle and goats usually develop subclinical infections. The epidemiology of BT is closely related to the distribution of competent vector species and climate conditions, which determine seasonal outbreaks. In Europe, the BTV-8 epizootic that emerged in 2006 highlighted the ability of the virus to spread into previously non-endemic regions, with substantial animal health and economic impacts. Pathogenesis involves virus replication in endothelial cells and immune cells, leading to vascular injury, edema, hemorrhages, and characteristic lesions in the respiratory and cardiovascular systems. Clinical signs include fever, facial edema, oral ulcers, excessive salivation, lameness, and in severe cases, cyanosis of the tongue (“blue tongue”). Diagnostic confirmation relies on molecular methods (RT-PCR, sequencing), virus isolation, and serological assays such as ELISA and virus neutralization tests. Immunity is serotype-specific, long-lasting after infection, but cross-protection among serotypes is limited. Vaccination, either with live attenuated or inactivated vaccines, remains the primary control strategy, though safety and serotype coverage issues persist. Overwintering mechanisms such as persistent infections, transplacental transmission, or survival of adult midges enable the virus to persist between vector seasons. Considering its complex epidemiology, genetic variability, and the challenges in eradication, BT continues to pose a significant threat to global livestock production. Effective surveillance, vaccination, vector control, and international collaboration are essential for mitigating its impact.