Shamonda Virus Claims First Human Life in France
Immunocompromised patient dies in Lyon as authorities downplay wider public health risk from livestock virus.
Sarah Connor
French health authorities reported the first known human case of Shamonda virus, resulting in death.
The patient received treatment for a serious illness at a hospice. Initial investigations suggest cerebral complications seen before his death directly linked to the Shamonda virus infection.
Shamonda virus, known as Shav, primarily affects livestock. Cattle, sheep, and goats are the main carriers.
The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control confirmed the French patient represented the first recognized human infection. Shav has since spread; farm animals in Ireland, Germany, Italy, Spain, and Jersey now carry the virus.
Farmers in Northern Ireland received advice to be alert. This followed reported findings of Shamonda virus in the Irish Republic. The UK’s Animal and Plant Health Agency claims infection during pregnancy could result in congenital abnormalities, similar to those seen with other related viruses.
French health and agricultural authorities currently see no risk to the general population. Health officials described it as an "exceptional case in a severely immunocompromised patient." They stated there was currently no risk to the public.
While this discovery warrants further scientific investigation and continued surveillance, it does not currently suggest a significant new public health threat to the UK.
Ben Brennan addressed the situation. He said, "While this discovery warrants further scientific investigation and continued surveillance, it does not currently suggest a significant new public health threat to the UK."
He added, "For most people, there is no reason to change their normal activities or take additional precautions."
The virus has not been detected in the UK to date. The British Agriculture Bureau claims the virus was not thought to be fatal in cattle. Paul Hunter claims the disease is primarily a problem in less economically developed countries.