Shamonda virus confirmed on two Cork farms
SHAV is spread by biting midges, and predominantly affects cattle, sheep and goats but has also been detected in horses in Europe.
A private laboratory has confirmed the presence of Shamonda virus (SHAV) from samples sourced from two farms in Co Cork.
Agriculture minister Martin Heydon confirmed the detection by the private lab, noting this was the first time the virus had been detected in Ireland.
“A private laboratory has reported a positive test for Shamonda virus in bovine samples from two farms in Co Cork.
"My department’s laboratory services are aware of this result and are engaging with the private laboratory to carry out follow-up investigations. This is the first time this emergent virus has been detected in Ireland.”
SHAV is spread by biting midges, and the virus is closely related to the Schmallenberg virus. SHAV predominantly affects cattle, sheep and goats but has also been found in horses in Europe.
“My department has been monitoring its spread across Europe since the summer,” Mr Heydon said.
The disease is not notifiable in Ireland or the EU; as a result, there are no movement or trade restrictions applied if SHAV is detected.
Infected cattle have displayed clinical signs such as fever, diarrhoea, and a decrease in milk production. The main concern is the disease’s effect on pregnant animals, as it can cause abortions or foetal malformations similar to the Schmallenberg virus.
There is currently no vaccine or treatment available in Ireland. Advised control measures for farmers include protecting their herds from the vector, biting midges, to reduce the risk of infection.
Farmers and horse owners with concerns should contact their private veterinary practitioner for further advice,” Mr Heydon said.
SHAV has been detected in France, Switzerland, Germany, Belgium, Austria, Jersey and the Netherlands.
Farmers in Northern Ireland are being advised to monitor herds and be alert for symptoms following the detection of the virus in Cork and a recently confirmed case of the virus in Jersey in September.
In an appeal to farmers, Department for Agriculture minister, Andrew Muir said: “The announcement by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine of the presence of Shamonda virus is notable.
"Coming on the back of the emergence of bluetongue last year, which is another midge-borne virus, it is essential farmers and horse owners are alive to both viruses and familiarise themselves with the symptoms.”
“Whilst there is no evidence of the virus in Northern Ireland, farmers and horse owners should remain aware of unusual illness in their animals and contact their private veterinary practitioner if they have concerns,” Mr Muir added.
