Schmallenberg virus: EFSA provides an overview of the latest scientific research
The Schmallenberg virus (SBV) is transmitted by insects and was first detected in Europe in cattle, sheep and goats in 2011. The report reviews current knowledge in the areas of genotypingA method of visualising one or more genes in a living organism. It is often used as a means to understand a particular trait, transmission routes, spread models, prevalenceThe proportion of a population found to have a condition, susceptible speciesA subdivision of the genus, a species is a group of closely related and similar-looking organisms; for example, in the case of Homo sapiens (humans), the second part of the name (sapiens) represents the species and impact on animal health. EFSA recommends further research to fully characterise SBV and to better understand the mechanisms of transmission. This will help the EU to be better prepared to deal with new disease threats.