Shamonda virus spreads through European livestock

The Shamonda virus (SHAV), an orthobunyavirus originally from Africa, is spreading across several European countries, including Germany, Austria, Switzerland, France, Belgium, and the Netherlands. The virus is primarily transmitted by biting midges (gnitzen).

In Germany, infections have been confirmed in cattle, sheep, goats, and even a horse and an alpaca. Symptoms in livestock include fever, diarrhea, reduced milk production, and respiratory issues. In Switzerland, the virus was detected in the brain tissue of two deceased horses, potentially explaining recent neurological symptoms observed in the region.

In Austria, the virus has been identified in five federal states, including Vorarlberg. Because the disease is not currently subject to mandatory reporting, exact infection numbers are difficult to determine. While the virus poses a significant threat to livestock, health authorities like the Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut state there is currently no relevant infection risk to humans.