Shamonda Virus Detected in Cattle

The Shamonda virus has been detected in a cattle herd in the Saxon Switzerland-Osterzgebirge district. The district administration announced this, citing results from the State Institute for Health and Veterinary Medicine. The pathogen was first detected in cattle in Saxony at the end of August. At that time, the cases involved herds in the Erzgebirge and Vogtland regions. The virus poses no danger to humans.

There are two variants of the virus: one affects only cattle, while the other can also infect sheep, goats, alpacas, and horses. It is not clear which variant has now been detected in the Saxon Switzerland-Eastern Ore Mountains district, according to a spokeswoman for the District Administration Office.

No Vaccine, but Treatment Is Possible

Infected dairy cows develop a fever and produce less milk. Diarrhea and breathing difficulties can also affect the animals. In addition, infected cows may suffer miscarriages, and unborn calves may develop deformities. The symptoms can usually be effectively treated by a veterinarian. The animals recover after two to three weeks. There is currently no vaccine available. The virus is transmitted by mosquitoes (gnats) and spreads rapidly throughout herds. 

Owners of susceptible animal species are urgently asked by the Saxon Switzerland-Eastern Ore Mountains Food Safety and Veterinary Office to take protective measures against the insects. For example, they should use fine-mesh netting, insect repellents, and fans. Animals that may be infected should be isolated and examined by a veterinarian.