| dc.description.abstract | In recent decades vector-borne diseases have become increasingly prevalent as global
warming continues, allowing vectors to expand into previously unoccupied regions. Since
its emergence in Germany in 2011, Schmallenberg virus has spread throughout Europe.
Initially, the spread was extremely rapid with the virus being detected in most European
member countries one-year post-emergence.
Culicoides biting midges were discovered to be the putative, biological vector for SBV.
Transmission of the virus between countries was primarily attributed to the dispersal of
vectors as a result of climatic conditions i.e. wind direction. Although, the transfer of
viraemic animals may have also contributed to the spread. The prevalence of SBV can be
monitored efficiently by bulk tank milk sampling and UV-trapping of Culicoides biting
midges.
Schmallenberg virus mainly causes acute, febrile symptoms in adult cows. In foetuses, it
primarily manifests as Arthrogryposis-Hydranencephaly Syndrome (AHS), although some
animals may present as anatomically normal with neurological defects. Economic losses are
caused as a result of a drop in milk yield or of animals foregone due to foetal malformation. | en_US |
