The Schmallenberg virus, which leads to deformities and stillborn young among goats, sheep and cows, has now been diagnosed at 96 Dutch farms.

In a letter to parliament Deputy Agriculture Minister Henk Bleker says the virus has been found at three cattle farms, 88 sheep farms and five goat farms. Another 450 farms have reported symptoms which could indicate infections with the virus.

The National Institute for Public Health and the Environment says that, according to available data, there is very little risk of humans becoming infected with the virus.

(gsh/mw/tf)

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