The Shamonda-like virus identified earlier this summer in cattle in France, Germany and Switzerland continues to spread across Europe, with new countries, regions and species now involved.
Geographical spread continues
In France, 18 departments were affected by 24 August, with detections now reaching the western departments of Manche and Calvados. In Switzerland, the virus has been detected in 22 cantons, while Germany has reported cases in additional Länder, including Hesse and Rhineland-Palatinate. Cases have also been confirmed in Liechtenstein, the Netherlands, Belgium and Austria.
Now also found in horses
The virus has also been detected in other species. In Switzerland, it was found in horses with neurological disease as well as in aborted bovine foetuses, supporting the possibility of transplacental infection. In Belgium, detection of the virus in sheep has been reported and is being investigated further.
Veterinary surveillance remains essential
With Culicoides midges considered the vector, continued clinical vigilance and timely sampling are important. The emerging disease is currently not notifiable, and veterinary surveillance remains essential.
(photo ©Daiga Ellaby/Unsplash)