An emerging Shamonda virus (SHAV) has been identified in cattle in Jersey, confirming its presence in the British Isles. The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) detected the virus in August 2026 in cattle showing clinical signs consistent with those observed elsewhere in Europe.
SHAV, believed to be primarily spread by Culicoides biting midges, has been found in several European countries during 2026. Its presence in Jersey highlights the potential for further spread across north-west Europe.
The virus belongs to the same group as Schmallenberg virus and mainly affects cattle, causing symptoms such as fever, diarrhoea, lethargy, and reduced milk production. Abortions have also been documented in infected cattle, and there are concerns about congenital abnormalities if infection occurs during pregnancy.
While primarily observed in cattle, SHAV has also been detected in sheep, goats, alpacas, and horses in various European countries. Notably, cases of neurological disease in horses, including in Germany and Switzerland, have been linked to SHAV, which could complicate investigations of other notifiable equine diseases.
SHAV is not a notifiable disease in the UK, but APHA encourages investigations of livestock and equine cases with compatible clinical signs. Diagnostic testing is available through APHA to support these investigations.