Shamonda-like virus variants detected in cattle across Netherlands and Germany

Two distinct variants of the ‘Shamonda-like’ virus have been identified in cattle across Northwest Europe, including the Netherlands and Germany. Genetic analysis suggests these variants stem from multiple independent introduction events into the region.

In the Netherlands, Royal GD reported that one variant matches types previously seen in southern Germany, France, and Switzerland, while a second variant, common in northern Germany, has spread across much of the country. The virus was detected in a one-day-old calf exhibiting developmental abnormalities and limb defects. While a direct causal link has not been confirmed, experts note that viruses in the Simbu group can be transmitted via the placenta, potentially leading to abortion, stillbirth, or congenital defects.

In Germany, the Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut (FLI) has classified the two genetically different strains as Shamonda-Virus Europe 1 (SHAV-EU1) and Shamonda-Virus Europe 2 (SHAV-EU2). The virus, an Orthobunyavirus, is believed to be transmitted primarily by biting midges of the genus Culicoides. Infections in Germany have been documented across several states, including Baden-Württemberg, Bavaria, Hesse, Rhineland-Palatinate, Saarland, and Saxony.