The first-ever human case of the Shamonda virus has been confirmed. Previously only found in animals, the virus has been blamed for the death of a patient in France—and scientists are concerned of what more could come.
The virus is transmitted by a biting insect and, until recently, was thought only to affect livestock, especially cattle. Now, however, health officials are working to determine whether the virus caused or contributed to the patient's death, and how they died. But what, exactly, is Shamonda virus, and why is it spreading rapidly throughout Europe?
In this gallery, we examine the circumstances surrounding this worrying news and chart the progress of this hitherto little-known virus. Click on to continue reading.