JMM Profile: Louping ill virus

Louping ill virus (LIV) is a single-stranded, positive- sense RNA virus within the genus Flavivirus that is transmitted to verte-brate hosts by bites from infected ticks, the arthropod vector. The virus affects livestock in upland areas of Great Britain and Ireland, resulting in a febrile illness that can progress to fatal encephalitis. Prevention of the disease is facilitated by combining acaricide treatment, land management and vaccination strategies. However, vaccines have been discontinued in recent years. Although rare, LIV can be transmitted to and cause disease in humans. Consequently, LIV infection is a threat to human and veterinary health and can impact on the rural economy.

Automated summary

Louping ill virus is a flavivirus that infects livestock in upland areas, causing febrile illness and potentially fatal encephalitis. Vaccination and prevention measures are crucial for controlling its spread, but vaccines have been discontinued in recent years.