First Human Case of Shamonda Virus Reported in France, WHO Confirms
The WHO has confirmed the first human case of the Shamonda virus in France, previously thought to only affect animals.
France, October 23 (Daily Kiran) : The World Health Organization (WHO) announced late last night on social media platform X that France has reported its first human case of the Shamonda virus. This information was provided by French authorities on October 20, 2026.
The Shamonda virus primarily affects animals, including cattle, sheep, goats, and horses. Until now, it was believed to be confined to animals, but the recent case in France indicates that it can also infect humans.
The virus is thought to spread among animals through bites from small flies known as midges. It does not transmit directly from one animal to another, except during pregnancy when an infected animal can pass the virus to its unborn offspring.
Investigations are ongoing to determine how the virus spreads to humans and whether it was indeed transmitted through midge bites. WHO officials and French health authorities are closely examining this aspect.
The Shamonda virus has already been present among animals in several African countries and Japan. However, since June 2026, it has been reported in Europe, with cases identified in countries such as Germany, Switzerland, Austria, Belgium, and France involving cattle and horses.
The case in France marks a new development in this ongoing situation, but it remains an isolated incident for now. The WHO has emphasized that it is monitoring the situation closely and will provide updates as new information becomes available. They are in contact with French authorities to ensure a thorough oversight of the circumstances.
