Information from the Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut on ‘Schmallenberg Virus’

After the discovery of the novel orthobunyavirus tentatively designated as ‚Schmallenberg Virus’ we received numerous requests for samples of the virus, for the protocol for our newly developed and in-house validated real-time RT-PCR as well as for disclosure of sequence information on the viral genome. After in-depth deliberation within the Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut (FLI) we have decided not to file any patents or other IP-related applications which could seriously delay and impair disclosure of information which is relevant to control this new infection and prevent harm for livestock farming. As a research institute core-funded by the Federal Government of Germany and, thus, by the public, we feel it is appropriate to distribute samples of virus, the protocol for genome detection as well as sequence information on the viral genome to all serious researchers interested in contributing to analyze and understand this new infection. Thus, we welcome requests for those reagents to be used for non-commercial (research) and commercial purposes respecting our material transfer agreement. With our resources we will do our best to satisfy the needs. Sequence information deposited in Genbank will be made available as soon as accession numbers are known.

On behalf of the FLI Schmallenberg Virus Study Group

Prof. Dr. Dr. h.c. Thomas C. Mettenleiter, President
PD Dr. Martin Beer, Director of Institute of Diagnostic Virology

Riems, 10th January 2012