Home / Health / New Virus Hits UK Livestock: Human Link Under Scrutiny
New Virus Hits UK Livestock: Human Link Under Scrutiny
2 Nov
Summary
- Shamonda virus, previously not transmissible to humans, found in UK livestock.
- Virus detected on dairy farms in England and Wales after prior European cases.
- Human risk is very low, though livestock keepers must monitor for symptoms.
Shamonda virus (SHAV), a virus previously considered non-transmissible to humans, has now been detected in British livestock. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) confirmed its presence on two dairy farms located in England and Wales. This marks the first detection of SHAV in UK animals.
While SHAV has been identified in 14 western European countries, including the Republic of Ireland, its presence in humans has been exceptionally rare. A single case was identified last month in a severely immunocompromised individual in Lyon, France. Health officials emphasized this was an unusual event due to the patient's weakened immune system.
The UKHSA has reassured the public that there is currently no evidence of wider human transmission and the risk to the general population is considered very low. Livestock keepers are instructed to watch for clinical signs such as fever, diarrhea, lethargy, and reduced milk production. The Food Standards Agency has also confirmed that SHAV poses no threat to food safety in Britain.
