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Shamonda virus found in British cattle for the first time

HEALTH

A virus reaches British cattle

Shamonda virus has been found in British livestock for the first time.

HEALTH

Where it was found

Two dairy farms tested positive in October. One is in Powys, Wales. The other is in Shropshire, England.

HEALTH

Confirmed in the lab

Samples went to APHA laboratories in Weybridge. The announcement came on November 2.

HEALTH

Tiny midges carry it

The virus travels in Culicoides biting midges. One bite can pass it from animal to animal.

HEALTH

A European wave

14 western European countries have recorded cases this year, including Jersey and Ireland.

HEALTH

What it does to cattle

Sick cows may get fever, diarrhoea, and lethargy. Milk output can drop.

HEALTH

The pregnancy worry

Infection during pregnancy can cause abortions or birth defects, according to European reports.

HEALTH

The human question

One case was found in a severely immunosuppressed person in Lyon, France. Officials say the risk to people is very low.

HEALTH

Food stays safe

The Food Standards Agency says there is no evidence of a food safety risk.

HEALTH

No vaccine yet

There is no vaccine and no specific treatment. Vets can only give supportive care.

HEALTH

Winter helps

Midge activity slows in winter. That should slow the spread. The real test comes next spring.

HEALTH

Farmers told to watch

Farmers should check their animals and call a vet at the first sign of illness. Full story on Rive News.

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