Shamonda virus
Shamonda virus (SHAV) is a midge-borne orthobunyavirus in the same broad virus group as Schmallenberg virus. A genetically distinct Shamonda-like virus has been detected in western and central Europe during 2026. Transmission is understood to occur mainly through Culicoides biting midges and may also occur from an infected dam to her offspring during gestation.
APHA confirmed detection in cattle in Jersey in August 2026. DAFM in Ireland reported positive test results for SHAV from two farms in County Cork in October 2026. A recent DAERA press release can be found at https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/news/muir-notes-reported-shamonda-virus-findings-county-cork. Shamonda-like virus is not a notifiable disease in Northern Ireland (NI) and has never been detected in NI.
WOAH is working closely with WHO and our scientific network to better understand and monitor any potential human health risk.
Please see latest publication from WOAH Shamonda virus: what do we know about its effects on animals? - WOAH - World Organisation for Animal Health
For further information, please also see shamonda virus - GOV.UK.