Shamonda Virus Raises Animal Health Concerns Following European Cases

The Shamonda virus, first identified in cattle in Nigeria in 1965, is drawing renewed attention following its detection in European livestock and the first reported human infection in France in October 2026.

The virus is spread through the bites of infected Culicoides midges and affects cattle, sheep, goats, horses and other animals. Reported symptoms include fever, diarrhoea, reduced milk production and reproductive problems.

Animal health authorities have also reported abortions and severe foetal abnormalities in some affected animals during the 2026 European outbreaks. However, the full impact of the virus and the behaviour of its European variants remain uncertain.

The World Organisation for Animal Health says laboratory testing is necessary to confirm infection because the clinical signs are not specific to the disease. There is currently no commercially available vaccine against the virus.

Measures to reduce infection risks include controlling midge breeding sites, monitoring vector activity and using protective barriers around animal housing.

Investigations are ongoing into the reported human infection in France, including how the patient became infected and whether the virus contributed to the death.

WOAH is working with the World Health Organization and scientific partners to improve surveillance and understanding of the virus.