A newly identified virus is causing concern in the Netherlands, Belgium and Germany. The virus, outbreaks of which have been reported since summer 2011, affects cows, sheep and other ruminants.

The Schmallenberg virus can cause abortions and fetal abnormalities in ruminants it affects; the clinical signs of the disease are fever (over 40oC), reduced milk yield (up to 50 per cent), inappetance, loss of condition and, in some cases, diarrhoea. The clinical signs reportedly disappear after a few days.

Infections of early stage foetuses can lead to abortion or congenital disorders. Defra has said there is currently no evidence of cases in Great Britain, but farmers have been asked to remain vigilant for any abnormal signs or clinical symptoms of disease amongst ruminants.

Schmallenberg virus, named after the town where it was first reported, has been discovered in cattle and sheep in Germany; 20 cattle farms and six sheep farms have been affected. Belgium has reported finding virus-positive lambs with congenital deformities on 14 sheep farms in the North Western region of Antwerp, although other farms have reported deformities. 177 farms in the Netherlands have also reported deformed lambs, calves kid goats. Of these, 51 of the 104 sheep farms and one of the seven goat farms have tested positive for the disease, but none of the 66 cattle farms have identified the cause for certain.

There are no official controls or trade restrictions on affected farms, as much about the virus remains unknown, although officials have said it is “highly likely” that the virus is insect borne. It is currently believed that a species of Culicoides midge is implicated, however, the midge has yet to be confirmed as a vector.

It is not yet known whether the disease affects camelids, such as llamas and alpacas and there is no vaccine available for the virus. Although there have been no reports of the disease as yet, Defra said Eastern parts of the UK and France may be at risk due to midge movement. Farmers buying livestock from regions where outbreaks have been reported are advised to contact their vet prior to so doing.

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