Shamonda Virus

Context

In October 2026, France reported the first documented human infection with Shamonda virus in a severely immunocompromised patient who later died. So far, no human-to-human transmission or wider public-health risk has been identified.

Virus Profile

1. Shamonda virus (SHAV) belongs to the genus Orthobunyavirus, family Peribunyaviridae, and the Simbu serogroup.
2. It was first isolated from cattle in Nigeria in 1965.
3. It has subsequently been detected in parts of Africa, Asia and Europe.

Transmission and Animal Impact

1. The virus is mainly transmitted through Culicoides biting midges.
2. Cattle are the principal hosts; infections have also been reported in sheep, goats, horses and alpacas.
3. In livestock, infection may cause fever, diarrhoea and reduced milk production.
4. Infection during pregnancy can result in abortions and congenital malformations.
5. Neurological disease has occasionally been reported in horses.

Significance

1. Zoonotic spillover: The first human case shows that a virus previously known mainly in animals can infect humans, though such cases remain extremely rare.
2. One Health surveillance: Since the virus involves animals, vectors and humans, coordinated veterinary, public-health and vector monitoring is important.
3. Vector monitoring: Culicoides midges transmit the virus; tracking their distribution can help identify areas of possible transmission.
4. Clinical preparedness: The first human case involved a severely immunocompromised patient with neurological complications, highlighting the need for awareness in unusual cases.
5. Research gap: With only one known human case and no specific vaccine or treatment, more research is needed on transmission, diagnosis and human health risk.

FAQs

Q1. What type of virus is Shamonda virus?
It is an Orthobunyavirus belonging to the Simbu serogroup.

Q2. When and where was it first detected?
It was first isolated from cattle in Nigeria in 1965.

Q3. How is Shamonda virus transmitted?
Mainly through Culicoides biting midges.

Q4. Which animals are mainly affected?
Primarily cattle, but also sheep, goats, horses and alpacas.

Q5. Has human-to-human transmission been reported?
No; no person-to-person transmission has been identified so far.