Andorra increases livestock disease prevention measures

The Government of Andorra has intensified efforts to prevent the spread of vector-borne diseases in livestock, specifically targeting the Shamonda virus. Minister of Environment, Agriculture, and Livestock Guillem Casal stated that while no cases have been detected in Andorra, the country must remain vigilant as the virus has spread through neighboring countries since the summer.

The Shamonda virus, transmitted by Culicoides midges, causes acute fever, diarrhea, and a 10% to 20% reduction in milk production in cattle. While adult animals typically recover, the virus poses a severe risk to pregnant females, potentially causing fetal malformations or abortions.

As there is currently no vaccine, Minister Casal emphasized that prevention relies on systematic disinfection of sector-related tools and the daily hygiene practices of farmers to prevent vector proliferation.