Panorama
First human case of shamondavirus infection confirmed in France
French health authorities have identified the first human case of shamondavirus; the patient, who had a compromised immune system, died in early October.
France has confirmed the first human case of shamondavirus infection. The patient had a weakened immune system and died in early October. According to French authorities, this is an exceptional case.
The shamondavirus was previously known only in farm animals. It was assumed that the virus could not be transmitted to humans. The case now demonstrates that human transmission is possible.
Investigations are ongoing to determine whether shamondavirus was the actual cause of death. The patient's health was already compromised by another condition, which likely played a role in the severity of the infection.
Based on current knowledge of the virus, French authorities say there is no health risk to the general population. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) is monitoring the case closely.
The likelihood of people contracting shamondavirus remains low. Nevertheless, the case has captured the attention of health authorities, not least because viruses can adapt and evolve.