Shamonda Virus, First Human Case in France, Symptoms, Preventions

Shamonda virus has come into focus after France reported the first documented human Shamonda virus infection in October 2026. The patient, who had a severely weakened immune system and was receiving treatment for a serious illness, died in early October. Health authorities are investigating how the infection occurred and whether the virus contributed to the death. However, no risk to the general population has been identified so far, according to French health authorities.

What is Shamonda Virus?

Shamonda virus (SHAV) is a virus that primarily affects livestock, including cattle, sheep, goats and horses. It belongs to the Orthobunyavirus group and is mainly transmitted among animals through the bites of infected Culicoides midges, which are small, biting insects.

The virus was first detected in cattle in Nigeria in the mid-1960s and was subsequently reported in parts of Africa and Japan. Before the French case in 2026, no human infection had been documented.

Shamonda virus is related to other animal-associated viruses, including the Schmallenberg virus, which is known for causing reproductive problems and developmental abnormalities in livestock.

How Does Shamonda Virus Spread?

The Shamonda virus spreads mainly through the bites of infected Culicoides midges. These tiny insects can transmit the virus between susceptible animals.

The main points about its transmission are:

• Infected midges: Biting midges are considered the primary route of transmission among animals.
• Animal hosts: Cattle are the main hosts, although infections have also been detected in sheep, goats, horses and alpacas.
• Possible human infection: The first documented human case in France is suspected to have involved a midge bite, but investigations into the exact transmission route are continuing.
• Human-to-human transmission: There is currently no established evidence that Shamonda virus spreads between people.
• Food safety: Current evidence does not establish transmission through meat, milk or dairy products. Advice from relevant health and veterinary authorities should be followed.

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What Are the Symptoms of Shamonda Virus?

The symptoms of Shamonda virus are better documented in animals than in humans. Since only one human case has been documented, the typical symptoms and severity of human Shamonda virus infection remain unclear.

• Fever: Increased body temperature in infected animals.
• Diarrhoea: Digestive problems that may cause weakness.
• Loss of appetite: Reduced food intake and activity.
• Reduced milk production: A decline in milk yield among dairy cattle.
• Weakness and lethargy: Reduced energy and movement.
• Reproductive complications: Abortions and fetal abnormalities may occur in infected livestock.
• Neurological complications: Neurological symptoms were reported in the first documented human case, but more evidence is needed to establish the full range of symptoms in humans.

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Where Has Shamonda Virus Been Detected?

Shamonda virus was first detected in Nigeria in the 1960s. Before 2026, it had been reported sporadically in parts of Africa and Japan, primarily in cattle.

In summer 2026, the virus was detected in European livestock for the first time. By October 2026, animal infections had been reported in more than a dozen European countries and territories, including:

• France
• Germany
• Switzerland
• Austria
• Belgium
• Ireland
• Italy
• Luxembourg
• The Netherlands
• Portugal
• Spain
• Liechtenstein
• Jersey

How Can Shamonda Virus Be Prevented?

There are no established human-specific prevention guidelines developed specifically for Shamonda virus. However, reducing exposure to biting midges and following veterinary advice can help limit exposure in areas where the virus circulates among animals. Recommended precautions include:

• Reduce insect exposure: Use suitable insect repellents and protective clothing in areas with biting midges.
• Control breeding sites: Manage stagnant water and other suitable insect-breeding environments around farms.
• Protect livestock: Follow veterinary guidance on insect control and animal health monitoring.
• Monitor animal symptoms: Report unexplained fever, diarrhoea, reduced milk production or reproductive problems to a veterinarian.
• Follow official guidance: Keep up with updates from public health and veterinary authorities in affected areas.