# Unbiased Sequencing Identifies Batai Virus as an Emerging Orthobunyavirus in Hungarian Cattle

## TL;DR

Batai virus, an emerging Orthobunyavirus, was unexpectedly found in Hungarian cattle using unbiased sequencing, highlighting the need for improved surveillance.

## Contribution

The first identification of Batai virus in Hungarian cattle using unbiased sequencing during routine BVDV surveillance.

## Key findings

- Batai virus was detected in cattle during routine BVDV surveillance using next-generation sequencing.
- The detection underscores the importance of unbiased sequencing in identifying emerging pathogens.
- The virus's presence in livestock highlights the need for integrated surveillance at the human–animal–environment interface.

## Abstract

This case report describes the unexpected identification and genomic characterization of Batai virus (BATV), an Orthobunyavirus, during routine bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) surveillance on a cattle farm in Hungary. The discovery was facilitated by next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies and highlights the importance of unbiased sequencing in pathogen surveillance. Although BATV currently exhibits limited zoonotic impact, its detection in livestock underscore the critical need for integrated surveillance at the human–animal–environment interface and the adoption of proper diagnostic tools to identify potential threats before they escalate.