# Detection of Novel Orthobunyavirus Reassortants in Fatal Neurologic Case in Horse and Culicoides Biting Midges, South Africa

## TL;DR

Researchers found new combinations of viruses in horses and midges in South Africa, highlighting the need for ongoing surveillance.

## Contribution

The study reports the detection of novel orthobunyavirus reassortants in horses and Culicoides midges in South Africa.

## Key findings

- Shuni virus was detected in horses and ovine fetuses.
- Shamonda and Caimito virus reassortants were identified in Culicoides midges.
- Genomic surveillance is crucial for tracking orthobunyavirus infections in Africa.

## Abstract

We detected Shuni virus in horses and ovine fetuses and Shamonda virus in a caprine fetus in South Africa. We identified a Shuni/Shamonda virus reassortant in a horse and Shuni/Caimito, Shamonda/Caimito, and Shamonda/Sango virus reassortants in Culicoides midges. Continued genomic surveillance will be needed to detect orthobunyavirus infections in Africa.