Abstract: A newly identified virus, called Schmallenberg, appears to cause hyperthermia, diarrhoea, a drop in production, and abortion in cattle and congenital malformations in sheep. These enzootic problems have been seen in Holland, Northwest Germany and near the Belgium border since last summer. An experimental reproduction of the virus has been achieved. The virus is a orthobunyavirus similar to the famous Akabane virus transmitted by Culicoides and other biting insects. Surveillance procedures have already been put in place in France.