The World Health Organization (WHO) announced on Thursday the registration of the first case of human infection with the Shamonda virus in France. The patient, who had a weakened immune system, lost their life after contracting this virus.
Impact of the Shamonda virus on humans
Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the Director-General of the World Health Organization, announced this news in a statement and expressed condolences to the patient's family. He added, "The Shamonda virus, which was previously identified only in animals, has now recorded its first case of human infection in France. The patient was at greater risk of severe illness due to their weakened immune system and unfortunately passed away."
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Need for further research
This virus primarily affects animals including cattle, sheep, goats, and horses, and appears to be transmitted among animals through the bites of midges, which are small fly-like insects. Tedros also noted that the patient lived in an area where the Shamonda virus was circulating among animals and where culicoides midges were present.
The World Health Organization stated that it is engaging with French authorities to gather more information about this case and identify the source of the infection. Tedros added, "We are working with French authorities who are collecting information to better understand the source of infection in the first human patient, potential transmission pathways, and any public health risks."
The WHO statement emphasized the need for further research to identify the source of the infection, determine transmission pathways, and assess any potential implications for public health. More research is needed to better understand this virus and its effects on humans.
Meanwhile, Nigeria has also confirmed a case of the Bundibugyo Ebola virus in the Federal Capital Territory. This case makes Nigeria the fifth country to detect this virus. According to the Nigerian Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, the patient is a woman who recently traveled from Uganda to Nigeria, and her symptoms began on October 7.
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