| Schmallenburg Virus Disease |
| The Schmallenberg Virus, named after the town in Germany where it was first isolated, in 2011, is an Orthobunyavirus that infects large and small ruminants resulting in several pathological effects, including digestive, reproductive, neurological and teratogenic problems. It is transmitted by biting flies - so-called midges of the genus Culicoides - the same flies that transmit Blue Tongue. Maternal-foetal transmission may also occur.
Clinical effects include reduced milk production, loss of appetite, diarrhoea, loss of condition. Abortions, stillbirths and mummified foetuses may occur. Congenital deformities may occur in young animals including arthrogryposis, hydranencephaly, spinal deformities and blindness. Neurological problems such as ataxia and paralysis may occur.
There is no specific treatment or vaccine at this time and the disease has thus far been confined to Europe. The Schmallenberg Virus does not infect humans.
For details on the Schmallenberg Virus, please click HERE.
Acknowledgements: Dr. Patrick Craig
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