Schmallenberg Virus
Schmallenberg virus (SBV) is an emerging infectious disease of ruminants, first identified in Germany in 2011. It is spread by biting midges and has been linked to severe birth defects and abortions in cows, sheep and goats. It is an RNA virus belonging to the family Bunyaviridae, and is closely related to the Akabane and Aino viruses, which cause disease in animals in other parts of the world. SBV is of economic importance due to losses in livestock production, and an effective approach to controlling the virus is yet to be developed. Vaccines are available that protect against SBV, and raising awareness of the disease and implementing mosquito control programs can help to reduce the risk of infection.
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