UAE Experts Identify Virus Behind Ethiopia's Mysterious Camel Deaths

The UAE's ADAFSA has identified the Wesselsbron virus as a potential cause of mysterious camel deaths in Ethiopia, marking a significant scientific breakthrough. This discovery, presented during a conference in Ethiopia, highlights the UAE's role in global animal health efforts and underscores the importance of international collaboration.

A team of experts from the UAE's Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA) has identified the Wesselsbron virus as a probable pathogen behind mysterious camel deaths in Ethiopia. The announcement was made at the 26th Conference of the WOAH Regional Commission for Africa, held in Ethiopia from February 4-7, 2025.

This breakthrough discovery, resulting from field investigations and lab analyses conducted by ADAFSA's experts, has significant implications. The identification of the flavivirus marks the first time it has been linked to the camel mortality crisis, which has caused severe economic and social impacts over two decades.

The findings have drawn international attention, bolstering the UAE's reputation in veterinary research. The collaboration between ADAFSA and Ethiopia's Ministry of Agriculture aims to deepen scientific understanding of Wesselsbron virus in camels and improve regional and global biosecurity through future research and epidemiological studies.

(With inputs from agencies.)