Farmers in Northern Ireland are being advised to be alert
following reported findings of Shamonda virus in the Irish
Republic.
DAERA Minister appealed for vigilance after
the Irish Government reported positive test results for Shamonda
virus from two farms in Co Cork following a recent confirmed case
in Jersey.
The Shamonda virus is a midge borne virus that mainly affects
cattle but it has also been detected across Europe in sheep,
goats, horses and alpacas.
Affected cattle may develop fever, diarrhoea, lethargy, reduced
milk production and mild respiratory signs. Abortions and
congenital defects are also possible, similar to Schmallenberg
virus.
The Shamonda virus is not a notifiable disease and is not subject
to government disease controls. There are no movement
restrictions or impacts on trade and there is no known human
health impacts associated with it.
There is also currently no vaccine or treatment available for
Shamonda which emerged in western and central Europe this summer.
Minister Muir said: The announcement by the Department of
Agriculture, Food and the Marine of the presence of Shamonda
virus is notable. Coming on the back of the emergence of
Bluetongue last year, which is another midge borne virus, it is
essential farmers and horse owners are alive to both viruses and
familiarise themselves with the symptoms.
Whilst there is no evidence of the virus in Northern Ireland,
farmers and horse owners should remain aware of unusual illness
in their animals and contact their private veterinary
practitioner if they have concerns.
Notes to editors:
- On September 24, 2026 the Animal and Plant Health Agency in
the UK confirmed the first case of
the Shamonda virus in Jersey.
- The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine announced the first positive
test in the Irish Republic for Shamonda virus on October 2,
2026.
