Government sounds alarm over harmful diarrhoea bug present in British Isles for first time
The Government has released an official warning after bug that causes grim diarrhoea and birth problems in cows was recorded for the first time
The virus has been found in cows for the first time in the British Isles
A dangerous virus that causes grim diarrhoea and birth problems in cows has been recorded in the British Isles for the first time.
Health officials at the Government’s Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) have confirmed that Shamonda virus was found in cattle on Jersey back in August, causing fears that the disease could cause animal deaths and impact the island’s important dairy industry.
The virus, which is transferred via midge bites, leads to bad fever, diarrhoea and lethargy, alongside a fall in milk production. Abortions have also been recorded in infected cows, while scientists believe infection during pregnancy could cause birth defects in calves.
The virus impacts dairy cows, as well as horses (Image: Matt Porteous/Getty)
Cow deaths and less milk production could have drastic consequences for the rest of the UK, which relies heavily on Jersey’s dairy industry.
As well as providing fresh milk to islanders and tourists, Jersey Dairy also provides huge quantities of its world famous produce to several huge companies in the UK and abroad, including M&S and Hotel Chocolat to name just a few, as well as its iconic Jersey ice-cream.
In 2025 alone, the small island exported 4.1 million litres of its milk and milk-related products to the rest of the British Isles.
Dairy farmers will be concerned about the dangerous virus (Image: jerseycowgirl/Instagram)
According to a government spokesperson, Shamonda can also be suffered by goats, sheep, and horses, and can lead to terrible health defects in all three.
In a statement, they wrote: “An emerging virus, known as Shamonda virus (SHAV), which is thought to be primarily spread by Culicoides biting midges, has been identified in several European countries during 2026.”
In August 2026, APHA detected Shamonda virus (SHAV) in cattle in Jersey that showed clinical signs consistent with those seen elsewhere in Europe.”
Jersey is famous for its delicious ice cream
This confirms the virus is present in the British Isles and in close proximity to Great Britain, highlighting the potential for further spread across north-west Europe.”
Shamonda virus is not believed to be dangerous to humans, and is not thought to be transferable via milk or other dairy products. The main worry when it comes to the virus is that stock numbers will decrease due to animal mortality and a decrease in production rates.
If you suspect a notifiable disease in your animals, you must report it immediately to APHA by calling 03000 200 301. In Wales, call 0300 303 8268. In Scotland, contact your local Field Services Office. Failure to do so is an offence.
