First human case of Shamonda virus detected in France, officials say
The disease, which usually affects cattle, has been identified in a patient who died in early October.
French health officials have announced the detection of the first human case of the Shamonda virus (Shav) in a patient who tragically passed away in early October. The individual, a severely immunocompromised individual, experienced neurological complications, which are believed to be linked to the virus. The patient received treatment in a hospital in Lyon.
Health authorities stated that the patient contracted the virus through a midge bite in eastern France, where animal cases were first identified in the spring. This marks a significant development, as Shav had previously been considered non-transmissible to humans, despite its presence in various animals in Africa and Asia for decades.
Dairy herds infected with Shav may suffer from fever, diarrhea, and reduced milk production. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) is currently monitoring the situation and collaborating with French and European partners to assess any potential public health implications of the infection. The first European cases of the virus were identified in late July and have since been detected in farm animals in several countries, including Ireland, Germany, Italy, Spain, and Jersey. This case has also been reported to the World Health Organization.
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