France Confirms First Human Case of Shamonda Virus, Previously Found in Animals Only

French health authorities have confirmed the first known human case of the Shamonda virus in a severely immunocompromised patient in Lyon who passed away in early October. 

The virus, which primarily affects livestock such as cattle, had previously been considered non-transmissible to humans. 

Officials emphasized that despite the unprecedented detection, there is currently no identified health risk to the general population.

The deceased patient was undergoing treatment for a serious illness at the Hospices Civils de Lyon when the infection was identified. 

Epidemiological investigations suggest the individual was likely infected via a bite from a Culicoides midge, a species of tiny biting fly, while in eastern France. 

According to a statement from the French Agriculture Ministry, recent investigations indicate that the severe brain complications the patient experienced prior to death were very likely linked to the Shamonda virus.

The Shamonda virus was first discovered in Nigeria during the mid-1960s and has historically appeared sporadically among cattle populations in West, East, and Southern Africa, as well as in Japan. 

It made its first documented appearance in Western Europe only this summer, with animal cases reported across France, southern Germany, Switzerland, and the Netherlands. 

While cattle serve as the primary hosts, sporadic infections have also been noted in horses and small ruminants. In adult cattle, symptoms typically include fever, lethargy, diarrhea, and a sudden drop in milk production among dairy cows.

French authorities continue to conduct clinical, laboratory, and epidemiological research to better understand the circumstances surrounding the infection. 

They remain in direct communication with international public health agencies, including the World Health Organization and the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control.

Source: magnific.com