Chamonda virus detected in a human for the first time in France; the infected individual has died.

For the first time, the animal-borne Shamonda virus has been detected in a human in France. French authorities have reported that a patient infected with the virus has died. However, officials have reassured the public that, based on current information, there is no identified public health risk to the general population.

According to an October 22 report by the Italian news outlet Rai News, the individual had a pre-existing compromised immune system. Before death, the patient developed neurological complications, which are suspected to be linked to the Shamonda virus infection.

How does the Shamonda virus spread?

The Shamonda virus is a type of orthobunyavirus, belonging to the Simbu serogroup. It is primarily transmitted by small, blood-feeding insects—specifically, biting midges of the genus *Culicoides*.

The virus was first identified in Nigeria in the mid-1960s. Since then, it has been detected sporadically in animals across various regions in Africa, Australia, and Japan.

Presence in European countries

In the summer of 2026, the Shamonda virus was detected for the first time in several Western and Central European countries, including Germany, France, Switzerland, the Netherlands, Belgium, Liechtenstein, and Austria.

In September, the virus was also identified in cattle at dairy farms in the Italian provinces of Trento and Bolzano. Prior to its detection in humans, the virus was known primarily for infecting livestock.

What is the level of risk to the general public?

According to an initial assessment by French authorities, there is no evidence of a widespread public health risk to the general population based on this single case. Nevertheless, further information is required to determine the specific source of the infection and the virus's impact on the human body. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has stated that it is in contact with French authorities and European partners to assess the potential public health implications of this first human infection.

This development is significant for experts, as no prior cases of human infection with the Chamonda virus have been documented. Further investigation is required to determine how the virus entered the human body and whether it could pose any public health risks in the future.

Source: Rai News