1
|
Cai M, Liu H, Jiang F, Sun Y, Wang W, An Y, Zhang M, Li X, Liu D, Li Y, Yu Y, Huang W, Wang Y. Analysis of the evolution, infectivity and antigenicity of circulating rabies virus strains. Emerg Microbes Infect 2022; 11:1474-1487. [PMID: 35570580 PMCID: PMC9176641 DOI: 10.1080/22221751.2022.2078742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Rabies virus has existed for thousands of years and is circulating in many species. In the present study, a total of 2896 rabies viruses isolated worldwide were phylogenetically classified into ten clusters based on the G gene sequence, and these clusters showed a close relationship with the hosts and regions that they were isolated from. Eighty-three representative G sequences were selected from ten clusters and were used to construct pseudoviruses using the VSV vector. The phylogenetic relationships, infectivity and antigenicity of the representative 83 pseudotyped rabies viruses were comprehensively analyzed. Eighty three pseudoviruses were divided into four antigentic clusters (GAgV), of which GAgV4 showed poor neutralization to all immunized sera. Further analysis showed that almost all strains in the GAgV4 were isolated from wild animals in the America, especially bats and skunks. No significant relationship in terms of phylogeny, infectivity and antigenicity was proved. Amino acid mutations at residues 231and 436 can affect the infectivity, while mutations at residues 113, 164 and 254 may affect the sensitivity to immunized animal sera, especially residue 254. We recommend close monitoring of infectivity and antigenicity, which should be more precise than simple genetic analysis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Meina Cai
- Division of HIV/AIDS and Sex-Transmitted Virus Vaccines, Institute for Biological Product Control, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control (NIFDC), Beijing, People's Republic of China.,Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Haizhou Liu
- National Virus Resource Center, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, People's Republic of China.,CAS Key Laboratory of Special Pathogens and Biosafety, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Center for Biosafety Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, People's Republic of China
| | - Fei Jiang
- Division of HIV/AIDS and Sex-Transmitted Virus Vaccines, Institute for Biological Product Control, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control (NIFDC), Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yeqing Sun
- Division of HIV/AIDS and Sex-Transmitted Virus Vaccines, Institute for Biological Product Control, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control (NIFDC), Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenbo Wang
- Division of Monoclonal Antibody Products, Institute for Biological Product Control, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control (NIFDC), Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yimeng An
- Division of HIV/AIDS and Sex-Transmitted Virus Vaccines, Institute for Biological Product Control, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control (NIFDC), Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Mengyi Zhang
- Division of HIV/AIDS and Sex-Transmitted Virus Vaccines, Institute for Biological Product Control, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control (NIFDC), Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Xueli Li
- Division of HIV/AIDS and Sex-Transmitted Virus Vaccines, Institute for Biological Product Control, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control (NIFDC), Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Di Liu
- National Virus Resource Center, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, People's Republic of China.,CAS Key Laboratory of Special Pathogens and Biosafety, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Center for Biosafety Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuhua Li
- Department of Arboviral Vaccine, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, (NIFDC), Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yongxin Yu
- Department of Arboviral Vaccine, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, (NIFDC), Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Weijin Huang
- Division of HIV/AIDS and Sex-Transmitted Virus Vaccines, Institute for Biological Product Control, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control (NIFDC), Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Youchun Wang
- Division of HIV/AIDS and Sex-Transmitted Virus Vaccines, Institute for Biological Product Control, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control (NIFDC), Beijing, People's Republic of China.,Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Jacquot M, Wallace MA, Streicker DG, Biek R. Geographic Range Overlap Rather than Phylogenetic Distance Explains Rabies Virus Transmission among Closely Related Bat Species. Viruses 2022; 14:v14112399. [PMID: 36366496 PMCID: PMC9697534 DOI: 10.3390/v14112399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2022] [Revised: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
The cross-species transmission (CST) of pathogens can have dramatic consequences, as highlighted by recent disease emergence events affecting human, animal and plant health. Understanding the ecological and evolutionary factors that increase the likelihood of disease agents infecting and establishing in a novel host is therefore an important research area. Previous work across different pathogens, including rabies virus (RABV), found that increased evolutionary distance between hosts reduces the frequency of cross-species transmission and of permanent host shifts. However, whether this effect of host relatedness still holds for transmission among recently diverged hosts is not well understood. We aimed to ask if high host relatedness can still increase the probability of a host shift between more recently diverged hosts, and the importance of this effect relative to ecological predictors. We first addressed this question by quantifying the CST frequency of RABV between North American bat species within the genus Myotis, using a multi-decade data set containing 128 nucleoprotein (N) RABV sequences from ten host species. We compared RABV CST frequency within Myotis to the rates of CST between nine genera of North American bat species. We then examined whether host relatedness or host range overlap better explains the frequency of CST seen between Myotis species. We found that at the within genus scale, host range overlap, rather than host relatedness best explains the frequency of CST events. Moreover, we found evidence of CST occurring among a higher proportion of species, and CST more frequently resulting in sustained transmission in the novel host in the Myotis dataset compared to the multi-genus dataset. Our results suggest that among recently diverged species, the ability to infect a novel host is no longer restricted by physiological barriers but instead is limited by physical contact. Our results improve predictions of where future CST events for RABV might occur and clarify the relationship between host divergence and pathogen emergence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maude Jacquot
- School of Biodiversity, One Health and Veterinary Medicine, Boyd Orr Centre for Population and Ecosystem Health, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, UK
- Correspondence: (M.J.); (R.B.)
| | - Megan A. Wallace
- School of Biodiversity, One Health and Veterinary Medicine, Boyd Orr Centre for Population and Ecosystem Health, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, UK
| | - Daniel G. Streicker
- School of Biodiversity, One Health and Veterinary Medicine, Boyd Orr Centre for Population and Ecosystem Health, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, UK
- Centre for Virus Research, MRC-University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK
| | - Roman Biek
- School of Biodiversity, One Health and Veterinary Medicine, Boyd Orr Centre for Population and Ecosystem Health, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, UK
- Correspondence: (M.J.); (R.B.)
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Ma X, Monroe BP, Wallace RM, Orciari LA, Gigante CM, Kirby JD, Chipman RB, Fehlner-Gardiner C, Cedillo VG, Petersen BW, Olson V, Bonwitt J. Rabies surveillance in the United States during 2019. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2021; 258:1205-1220. [PMID: 33978439 DOI: 10.2460/javma.258.11.1205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To provide epidemiological information on animal and human cases of rabies occurring in the United States during 2019 and summaries of 2019 rabies surveillance for Canada and Mexico. ANIMALS All animals submitted for laboratory diagnosis of rabies in the United States during 2019. PROCEDURES State and territorial public health departments and USDA Wildlife Services provided data on animals submitted for rabies testing in the United States during 2019. Data were analyzed temporally and geographically to assess trends in domestic and wildlife rabies cases. RESULTS During 2019, 53 jurisdictions submitted 97,523 animal samples for rabies testing, of which 94,770 (97.2%) had a conclusive (positive or negative) test result. Of these, 4,690 tested positive for rabies, representing a 5.3% decrease from the 4,951 cases reported in 2018. Texas (n = 565 [12.0%]), New York (391 [8.3%]), Virginia (385 [8.2%]), North Carolina (315 [6.7%]), California (276 [5.9%]), and Maryland (269 [5.7%]) together accounted for almost half of all animal rabies cases reported in 2019. Of the total reported rabid animals, 4,305 (91.8%) were wildlife, with raccoons (n = 1,545 [32.9%]), bats (1,387 [29.6%]), skunks (915 [19.5%]), and foxes (361 [7.7%]) as the primary species confirmed with rabies. Rabid cats (n = 245 [5.2%]) and dogs (66 [1.4%]) accounted for > 80% of rabies cases involving domestic animals in 2019. No human rabies cases were reported in 2019. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE The overall number of animal rabies cases decreased from 2018 to 2019. Laboratory diagnosis of rabies in animals is critical to ensure that human rabies postexposure prophylaxis is administered judiciously.
Collapse
|
4
|
Huettmann F, Hueffer K. The ecological niche of reported rabies cases in Canada is similar to Alaska. Zoonoses Public Health 2021; 68:677-683. [PMID: 33955689 PMCID: PMC8453923 DOI: 10.1111/zph.12835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2020] [Revised: 03/03/2021] [Accepted: 04/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
The ecology of rabies in the circumpolar North is still not well understood. We use machine learning, a geographic information system and data explicit in time and space obtained for reported rabies cases and predictors in Canada to develop an ecological niche model for the distribution of reported rabies cases in the American north (Alaska and Canada). The ecological niche model based on reported rabies cases in Canada predicted reported rabies cases in Alaska, suggesting a rather robust inference and even similar drivers on a continental scale. As found in Alaska, proximity to human infrastructure—specifically along the coast—was a strong predictor in the detection of rabies cases in Canada. Also, this finding highlights the need for a more systematic landscape sampling for rabies infection model predictions to better understand and tackle the ecology of this important zoonotic disease on a landscape scale at some distance from human infrastructure in wilderness areas.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Falk Huettmann
- EWHALE lab- Inst of Arctic Biology, Department of Biology & Wildlife, University of Alaska, Fairbanks, AK, USA
| | - Karsten Hueffer
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Alaska, Fairbanks, AK, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Affiliation(s)
- Marcione B. De Oliveira
- Graduate Program in Zoology, National Museum, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Quinta da Boa Vista s/n, São Cristóvão, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 20940-040, Brazil
| | - Cibele R. Bonvicino
- Graduate Program in Zoology, National Museum, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Quinta da Boa Vista s/n, São Cristóvão, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 20940-040, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Gigante CM, Yale G, Condori RE, Costa NC, Long NV, Minh PQ, Chuong VD, Tho ND, Thanh NT, Thin NX, Hanh NTH, Wambura G, Ade F, Mito O, Chuchu V, Muturi M, Mwatondo A, Hampson K, Thumbi SM, Thomae BG, de Paz VH, Meneses S, Munyua P, Moran D, Cadena L, Gibson A, Wallace RM, Pieracci EG, Li Y. Portable Rabies Virus Sequencing in Canine Rabies Endemic Countries Using the Oxford Nanopore MinION. Viruses 2020; 12:v12111255. [PMID: 33158200 PMCID: PMC7694271 DOI: 10.3390/v12111255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Revised: 10/21/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
As countries with endemic canine rabies progress towards elimination by 2030, it will become necessary to employ techniques to help plan, monitor, and confirm canine rabies elimination. Sequencing can provide critical information to inform control and vaccination strategies by identifying genetically distinct virus variants that may have different host reservoir species or geographic distributions. However, many rabies testing laboratories lack the resources or expertise for sequencing, especially in remote or rural areas where human rabies deaths are highest. We developed a low-cost, high throughput rabies virus sequencing method using the Oxford Nanopore MinION portable sequencer. A total of 259 sequences were generated from diverse rabies virus isolates in public health laboratories lacking rabies virus sequencing capacity in Guatemala, India, Kenya, and Vietnam. Phylogenetic analysis provided valuable insight into rabies virus diversity and distribution in these countries and identified a new rabies virus lineage in Kenya, the first published canine rabies virus sequence from Guatemala, evidence of rabies spread across an international border in Vietnam, and importation of a rabid dog into a state working to become rabies-free in India. Taken together, our evaluation highlights the MinION's potential for low-cost, high volume sequencing of pathogens in locations with limited resources.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Crystal M. Gigante
- Poxvirus and Rabies Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA; (C.M.G.); (R.E.C.); (R.M.W.); (E.G.P.)
| | - Gowri Yale
- Mission Rabies, Tonca, Panjim, Goa 403001, India;
| | - Rene Edgar Condori
- Poxvirus and Rabies Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA; (C.M.G.); (R.E.C.); (R.M.W.); (E.G.P.)
| | - Niceta Cunha Costa
- Disease Investigation Unit, Directorate of Animal Health and Veterinary Services, Patto, Panjim, Goa 403001, India;
| | - Nguyen Van Long
- Vietnam Department of Animal Health, Hanoi 100000, Vietnam; (N.V.L.); (P.Q.M.); (V.D.C.)
| | - Phan Quang Minh
- Vietnam Department of Animal Health, Hanoi 100000, Vietnam; (N.V.L.); (P.Q.M.); (V.D.C.)
| | - Vo Dinh Chuong
- Vietnam Department of Animal Health, Hanoi 100000, Vietnam; (N.V.L.); (P.Q.M.); (V.D.C.)
| | - Nguyen Dang Tho
- National Center for Veterinary Diseases, Hanoi 100000, Vietnam;
| | - Nguyen Tat Thanh
- Sub-Department of Animal Health, Phú Thọ Province 35000, Vietnam; (N.T.T.); (N.X.T.); (N.T.H.H.)
| | - Nguyen Xuan Thin
- Sub-Department of Animal Health, Phú Thọ Province 35000, Vietnam; (N.T.T.); (N.X.T.); (N.T.H.H.)
| | - Nguyen Thi Hong Hanh
- Sub-Department of Animal Health, Phú Thọ Province 35000, Vietnam; (N.T.T.); (N.X.T.); (N.T.H.H.)
| | - Gati Wambura
- Center for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi 00100, Kenya; (G.W.); (F.A.); (O.M.); (V.C.); (S.M.T.)
| | - Frederick Ade
- Center for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi 00100, Kenya; (G.W.); (F.A.); (O.M.); (V.C.); (S.M.T.)
| | - Oscar Mito
- Center for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi 00100, Kenya; (G.W.); (F.A.); (O.M.); (V.C.); (S.M.T.)
| | - Veronicah Chuchu
- Center for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi 00100, Kenya; (G.W.); (F.A.); (O.M.); (V.C.); (S.M.T.)
- Department of Public Health, Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Nairobi, Nairobi 00100, Kenya
| | - Mathew Muturi
- Zoonotic Disease Unit, Ministry of Health, Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries, Nairobi 00100, Kenya; (M.M.); (A.M.)
| | - Athman Mwatondo
- Zoonotic Disease Unit, Ministry of Health, Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries, Nairobi 00100, Kenya; (M.M.); (A.M.)
| | - Katie Hampson
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, UK;
| | - Samuel M. Thumbi
- Center for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi 00100, Kenya; (G.W.); (F.A.); (O.M.); (V.C.); (S.M.T.)
- University of Nairobi Institute of Tropical and Infectious Diseases, Nairobi 00100, Kenya
- Paul G. Allen School for Global Animal Health, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164, USA
| | - Byron G. Thomae
- Ministry of Agriculture Livestock and Food, Guatemala City 01013, Guatemala;
| | - Victor Hugo de Paz
- National Health Laboratory, MSPAS, Villa Nueva 01064, Guatemala; (V.H.d.P.); (S.M.)
| | - Sergio Meneses
- National Health Laboratory, MSPAS, Villa Nueva 01064, Guatemala; (V.H.d.P.); (S.M.)
| | - Peninah Munyua
- Division of Global Health Protection, Centers for Disease Control, Nairobi 00100, Kenya;
| | - David Moran
- University del Valle de Guatemala, Guatemala City 01015, Guatemala;
| | - Loren Cadena
- Division of Global Health Protection, Centers for Disease Control, Guatemala City 01001, Guatemala;
| | - Andrew Gibson
- The Roslin Institute and The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, Division of Genetics and Genomics, The University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush Veterinary Centre, Roslin, Midlothian EH25 9RG, UK;
| | - Ryan M. Wallace
- Poxvirus and Rabies Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA; (C.M.G.); (R.E.C.); (R.M.W.); (E.G.P.)
| | - Emily G. Pieracci
- Poxvirus and Rabies Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA; (C.M.G.); (R.E.C.); (R.M.W.); (E.G.P.)
| | - Yu Li
- Poxvirus and Rabies Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA; (C.M.G.); (R.E.C.); (R.M.W.); (E.G.P.)
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Abstract
Bats are susceptible to rabies. Although bats may appear to be asymptomatic carriers of rabies for a few days, eventually they fall ill to the viral infection and die. Two of at least four bat-specific variants of rabies virus in Canada have killed humans. Rabies is usually transmitted by biting, but bats are small mammals so their bites may go unnoticed. People exposed to rabid animals should receive postexposure prophylaxis (PEP). With 60 known human deaths from 1950 to 2009, rabies is rare in Canada and the United States of America compared with India where it kills over 100 people annually. In Asia and Africa, most human rabies is acquired from dog bites. In Brazil, dog and bat bites together account for >80% of human rabies. In Canada, rabies is a disease primarily confined to wildlife (foxes, racoons, skunks, and bats). The public image of bats is negatively affected by their association with diseases. Too often bats are victimized by allegations of their role in deadly diseases such as rabies, Ebola, severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), and Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS). In general, bats are not dangerous, but humans should seek treatment if they are bitten by one. (Graphical abstract shows a 4-g elegant myotis biting MBF’s finger—photo by Sherri and Brock Fenton.)
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M. Brock Fenton
- Department of Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 5B7, Canada
| | - Alan C. Jackson
- Department of Internal Medicine (Neurology), University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3A 1R9, Canada
| | - Paul A. Faure
- Department of Psychology, Neuroscience & Behaviour, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 4K1, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Pieracci EG, Brown JA, Bergman DL, Gilbert A, Wallace RM, Blanton JD, Velasco-Villa A, Morgan CN, Lindquist S, Chipman RB. Evaluation of species identification and rabies virus characterization among bat rabies cases in the United States. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2020; 256:77-84. [PMID: 31841089 PMCID: PMC11351906 DOI: 10.2460/javma.256.1.77] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate species identification and rabies virus (RABV) characterization among samples from bats submitted for rabies testing in the United States and assess whether a standardized approach to specimen selection for RABV characterization could enhance detection of a sentinel event in virus dissemination among bats. SAMPLE United States public health rabies surveillance system data collected in January 2010 through December 2015. PROCEDURES The number of rabies-tested bats for which species was reported and the number of RABV-positive samples for which virus characterization would likely provide information regarding introduction of novel RABV variants and translocation and host-shift events were calculated. These specimens were designated as specimens of epizootiological importance (SEIs). Additionally, the estimated test load that public health laboratories could expect if all SEIs underwent RABV characterization was determined. RESULTS Species was reported for 74,928 of 160,017 (47%) bats submitted for rabies testing. Identified SEIs were grouped in 3 subcategories, namely nonindigenous bats; bats in southern border states, Florida, Puerto Rico, and the US Virgin Islands; and bats of species that are not commonly found to be inflected with RABV. Annually, 692 (95% CI, 600 to 784) SEIs were identified, of which only 295 (95% CI, 148 to 442) underwent virus characterization. Virus characterization of all SEIs would be expected to increase public health laboratories' overall test load by 397 (95% CI, 287 to 506) samples each year. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Species identification and RABV characterization may aid detection of a sentinel event in bat RABV dissemination. With additional resources, RABV characterization of all SEIs as a standardized approach to testing could contribute to knowledge of circulating bat RABV variants.
Collapse
|
9
|
Menozzi BD, da Paz GS, Paiz LM, Garces HG, Adorno BMV, Almeida-Silva F, Zancope Oliveira RM, Richini-Pereira VB, Chechi JL, Bagagli E, Bosco SDMG, Langoni H. Rabies virus and Histoplasma suramericanum coinfection in a bat from southeastern Brazil. Zoonoses Public Health 2019; 67:138-147. [PMID: 31750629 DOI: 10.1111/zph.12663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2019] [Revised: 10/18/2019] [Accepted: 10/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Bats are essential to the global ecosystem, but their ability to harbour a range of pathogens has been widely discussed, as well as their role in the emergence and re-emergence of infectious diseases. This paper describes the first report of coinfection by two zoonotic agents, rabies virus (RABV) and the fungus Histoplasma suramericanum in a bat. The bat was from the Molossus molossus species, and it was found during the daytime in the hallway of a public psychiatric hospital in a municipality in São Paulo State, southeastern Brazil. RABV infection was diagnosed by the direct fluorescent antibody test and mouse inoculation test. The fungus was isolated by in vitro culture. Both diagnoses were confirmed by molecular techniques. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the fungus isolate had proximity to H. suramericanum in the Lam B clade, while the RABV isolate was characterized in the Lasiurus cinereus lineage. Since the M. molossus bat was found in a peri-urban transition area (urban/peri-urban), the possibility of cross-species transmission of this RABV lineage becomes more plausible, considering that this scenario may provide shelter for both M. molossus and L. cinereus. These are relevant findings since there has been an increase in bat populations in urban and peri-urban areas, particularly due to environmental modifications and anthropogenic impacts on their habitat. Thus, the detection of two zoonotic agents in a bat found in a public hospital should raise awareness regarding the importance of systematic surveillance actions directed towards bats in urban areas.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Giselle Souza da Paz
- São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, Brazil
- Municipal Health Department, Botucatu, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Helio Langoni
- São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Nadin-Davis SA. Rapid identification of the raccoon rabies virus variant using a real-time reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. J Virol Methods 2019; 273:113713. [PMID: 31404575 DOI: 10.1016/j.jviromet.2019.113713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2019] [Revised: 06/27/2019] [Accepted: 08/08/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The raccoon-associated variant of rabies virus (RRV) is enzootic throughout the eastern seaboard of the United States with frequent incursions into Canada. Many wildlife management agencies are actively engaged in control programmes targeting elimination of this disease and rapid identification of raccoon rabies cases is crucial to the success of these operations. This report documents the development of a reverse transcriptase real-time PCR (RT-qPCR) that specifically identifies this rabies virus variant (RRV RT-qPCR) and which can be readily multiplexed with a generic rabies virus RT-qPCR for use as a typing tool. Using a large collection of rabies virus samples representative of the variants circulating around the world, but with a focus on those occurring in the Americas, the RRV RT-qPCR was 100% sensitive and 99.31% specific. To further apply these assays for diagnostic purposes, addition of an RT-qPCR targeting the host β-actin mRNA, which serves as an internal amplification control, in a triplex format was shown to yield highly comparable results using a subset of our viral collection. Use of these assays for early and accurate identification of this viral variant will help to optimize the utilization of resources required for control of this disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S A Nadin-Davis
- Animal Health Microbiology Research, Ottawa Laboratory Fallowfield, Canadian Food Inspection Agency, Room A222, 3851 Fallowfield Rd., P.O. Box 11300, Station H, K2H 8P9, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Of bats and livestock: The epidemiology of rabies in Trinidad, West Indies. Vet Microbiol 2019; 228:93-100. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetmic.2018.11.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2018] [Revised: 11/17/2018] [Accepted: 11/19/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
|
12
|
Seetahal JFR, Vokaty A, Carrington CVF, Adesiyun AA, Mahabir R, Hinds AQJ, Rupprecht CE. The History of Rabies in Trinidad: Epidemiology and Control Measures. Trop Med Infect Dis 2017; 2:E27. [PMID: 30270885 PMCID: PMC6082105 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed2030027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2017] [Revised: 06/26/2017] [Accepted: 07/03/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Vampire bat-transmitted rabies was first recognized in Trinidad during a major outbreak reported in 1925. Trinidad is the only Caribbean island with vampire bat-transmitted rabies. We conducted a literature review to describe the changing epidemiology of rabies in Trinidad and give a historical perspective to rabies prevention and control measures on the island. The last human case of rabies occurred in 1937 and although no case of canine-transmitted rabies was reported since 1914, sporadic outbreaks of bat-transmitted rabies still occur in livestock to date. Over the last century, seven notable epidemics were recorded in Trinidad with the loss of over 3000 animals. During the 1950s, several measures were effectively adopted for the prevention and control of the disease which led to a significant reduction in the number of cases. These measures include: vampire bat population control, livestock vaccination, and animal surveillance. However, due to lapses in these measures over the years (e.g., periods of limited vampire control and incomplete herd vaccination), epidemics have occurred. In light of the significant negative impact of rabies on animal production and human health, rabies surveillance in Trinidad should be enhanced and cases evaluated towards the design and implementation of more evidence-based prevention and control programs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Janine F R Seetahal
- Department of Preclinical Sciences, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine Campus, St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago.
| | - Alexandra Vokaty
- Pan American Health Organization, Trinidad and Tobago Country Office, St. Clair, Trinidad and Tobago.
| | - Christine V F Carrington
- Department of Preclinical Sciences, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine Campus, St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago.
| | - Abiodun A Adesiyun
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine Campus, St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago.
| | - Ron Mahabir
- Department of Geography and Geoinformation Science, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA 22030, USA.
| | - Avery Q J Hinds
- Caribbean Public Health Agency, 16⁻18 Jamaica Boulevard, Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago.
| | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
The phylogeography of Myotis bat-associated rabies viruses across Canada. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2017; 11:e0005541. [PMID: 28542160 PMCID: PMC5453604 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0005541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2017] [Revised: 06/01/2017] [Accepted: 03/30/2017] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
As rabies in carnivores is increasingly controlled throughout much of the Americas, bats are emerging as a significant source of rabies virus infection of humans and domestic animals. Knowledge of the bat species that maintain rabies is a crucial first step in reducing this public health problem. In North America, several bat species are known to be rabies virus reservoirs but the role of bats of the Myotis genus has been unclear due to the scarcity of laboratory confirmed cases and the challenges encountered in species identification of poorly preserved diagnostic submissions by morphological traits alone. This study has employed a collection of rabid bat specimens collected across Canada over a 25 year period to clearly define the role of particular Myotis species as rabies virus reservoirs. The virus was characterised by partial genome sequencing and host genetic barcoding, used to confirm species assignment of specimens, proved crucial to the identification of certain bat species as disease reservoirs. Several variants were associated with Myotis species limited in their Canadian range to the westernmost province of British Columbia while others were harboured by Myotis species that circulate across much of eastern and central Canada. All of these Myotis-associated viral variants, except for one, clustered as a monophyletic MYCAN clade, which has emerged from a lineage more broadly distributed across North America; in contrast one distinct variant, associated with the long-legged bat in Canada, represents a relatively recent host jump from a big brown bat reservoir. Together with evidence from South America, these findings demonstrate that rabies virus has emerged in the Myotis genus independently on multiple occasions and highlights the potential for emergence of new viral-host associations within this genus. Reducing the public health burden of rabies is most effectively achieved by elimination of the disease from its hosts. While the role of dogs and many wild carnivore species in maintaining and transmitting rabies virus is well established, our understanding of the role of many bat species in this regard is still incomplete. Several North American bat species are known to be rabies virus reservoirs, but the role of bats of the Myotis genus has been unclear due to the very limited number of laboratory confirmed rabies cases detected in these bats and the challenge in assigning species to poorly preserved bat carcasses. Our study utilised a collection of rabid bats collected across Canada over 25 years to address this issue. Genetic barcoding was used to identify the specimens to species and the virus was characterised by partial genome sequencing. Host barcoding proved to be crucial for correct species assignment to many specimens and allowed the identification of certain Myotis species as reservoirs for several genetically distinct variants of the rabies virus. The geographical distribution of these viral variants, and its correlation with the ecological and taxonomic properties of the hosts, are described. While most of these variants belong to a single rabies virus lineage, one variant associated with the long-legged bat appears to have emerged relatively recently following transmission from a big brown bat reservoir. Consistent with this observation, comparison of the rabies viruses associated with Myotis bats in North and South America clearly shows that rabies has emerged in members of this genus on several separate occasions.
Collapse
|
14
|
Abstract
Recent studies have clearly shown that bats are the reservoir hosts of a wide diversity of novel viruses with representatives from most of the known animal virus families. In many respects bats make ideal reservoir hosts for viruses: they are the only mammals that fly, thus assisting in virus dispersal; they roost in large numbers, thus aiding transmission cycles; some bats hibernate over winter, thus providing a mechanism for viruses to persist between seasons; and genetic factors may play a role in the ability of bats to host viruses without resulting in clinical disease. Within the broad diversity of viruses found in bats are some important neurological pathogens, including rabies and other lyssaviruses, and Hendra and Nipah viruses, two recently described viruses that have been placed in a new genus, Henipaviruses in the family Paramyxoviridae. In addition, bats can also act as alternative hosts for the flaviviruses Japanese encephalitis and St Louis encephalitis viruses, two important mosquito-borne encephalitogenic viruses, and bats can assist in the dispersal and over-wintering of these viruses. Bats are also the reservoir hosts of progenitors of SARS and MERS coronaviruses, although other animals act as spillover hosts. This chapter presents the physiological and ecological factors affecting the ability of bats to act as reservoirs of neurotropic viruses, and describes the major transmission cycles leading to human infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carol Shoshkes Reiss
- Departments of Biology and Neural Science, New York University, New York, New York USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Ngoepe E, Fehlner-Gardiner C, Wandeler A, Sabeta C. Antigenic characterisation of lyssaviruses in South Africa. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 81:711. [PMID: 25685866 DOI: 10.4102/ojvr.v81i1.711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2013] [Revised: 04/25/2014] [Accepted: 05/06/2014] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
There are at least six Lyssavirus species that have been isolated in Africa, which include classical rabies virus, Lagos bat virus, Mokola virus, Duvenhage virus, Shimoni bat virus and Ikoma lyssavirus. In this retrospective study, an analysis of the antigenic reactivity patterns of lyssaviruses in South Africa against a panel of 15 anti-nucleoprotein monoclonal antibodies was undertaken. A total of 624 brain specimens, collected between 2005 and 2009, confirmed as containing lyssavirus antigen by direct fluorescent antibody test, were subjected to antigenic differentiation. The lyssaviruses were differentiated into two species, namely rabies virus (99.5%) and Mokola virus (0.5%). Furthermore, rabies virus was further delineated into two common rabies biotypes in South Africa: canid and mongoose. Initially, it was found that the canid rabies biotype had two reactivity patterns; differential staining was observed with just one monoclonal antibody. This difference was likely to have been an artefact related to sample quality, as passage in cell culture restored staining. Mongoose rabies viruses were more heterogeneous, with seven antigenic reactivity patterns detected. Although Mokola viruses were identified in this study, prevalence and reservoir host species are yet to be established. These data demonstrate the usefulness of monoclonal antibody typing panels in lyssavirus surveillance with reference to emergence of new species or spread of rabies biotypes to new geographic zones.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ernest Ngoepe
- Agriculture Research Council-Onderstepoort Veterinary Research, University of Pretoria.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Lyssaviruses and bats: emergence and zoonotic threat. Viruses 2014; 6:2974-90. [PMID: 25093425 PMCID: PMC4147683 DOI: 10.3390/v6082974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2014] [Revised: 07/21/2014] [Accepted: 07/22/2014] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The continued detection of zoonotic viral infections in bats has led to the microbial fauna of these mammals being studied at a greater level than ever before. Whilst numerous pathogens have been discovered in bat species, infection with lyssaviruses is of particular significance from a zoonotic perspective as, where human infection has been reported, it is invariably fatal. Here we review the detection of lyssaviruses within different bat species and overview what is understood regarding their maintenance and transmission following both experimental and natural infection. We discuss the relevance of these pathogens as zoonotic agents and the threat of newly discovered viruses to human populations.
Collapse
|
17
|
Smith C, Skelly C, Kung N, Roberts B, Field H. Flying-fox species density--a spatial risk factor for Hendra virus infection in horses in eastern Australia. PLoS One 2014; 9:e99965. [PMID: 24936789 PMCID: PMC4061024 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0099965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2014] [Accepted: 05/20/2014] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Hendra virus causes sporadic but typically fatal infection in horses and humans in eastern Australia. Fruit-bats of the genus Pteropus (commonly known as flying-foxes) are the natural host of the virus, and the putative source of infection in horses; infected horses are the source of human infection. Effective treatment is lacking in both horses and humans, and notwithstanding the recent availability of a vaccine for horses, exposure risk mitigation remains an important infection control strategy. This study sought to inform risk mitigation by identifying spatial and environmental risk factors for equine infection using multiple analytical approaches to investigate the relationship between plausible variables and reported Hendra virus infection in horses. Spatial autocorrelation (Global Moran's I) showed significant clustering of equine cases at a distance of 40 km, a distance consistent with the foraging 'footprint' of a flying-fox roost, suggesting the latter as a biologically plausible basis for the clustering. Getis-Ord Gi* analysis identified multiple equine infection hot spots along the eastern Australia coast from far north Queensland to central New South Wales, with the largest extending for nearly 300 km from southern Queensland to northern New South Wales. Geographically weighted regression (GWR) showed the density of P. alecto and P. conspicillatus to have the strongest positive correlation with equine case locations, suggesting these species are more likely a source of infection of Hendra virus for horses than P. poliocephalus or P. scapulatus. The density of horses, climate variables and vegetation variables were not found to be a significant risk factors, but the residuals from the GWR suggest that additional unidentified risk factors exist at the property level. Further investigations and comparisons between case and control properties are needed to identify these local risk factors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Craig Smith
- Queensland Centre for Emerging Infectious Diseases, Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Chris Skelly
- Biosecurity Intelligence Unit, Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- GIS People Pty Ltd, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Nina Kung
- Queensland Centre for Emerging Infectious Diseases, Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Billie Roberts
- Griffith School of Environment, Griffith University, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Hume Field
- Queensland Centre for Emerging Infectious Diseases, Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- EcoHealth Alliance, New York, New York, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Condori-Condori RE, Streicker DG, Cabezas-Sanchez C, Velasco-Villa A. Enzootic and epizootic rabies associated with vampire bats, peru. Emerg Infect Dis 2014; 19:1463-69. [PMID: 23969087 DOI: 10.3201/eid1809.130083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
During the past decade, incidence of human infection with rabies virus (RABV) spread by the common vampire bat (Desmodus rotundus) increased considerably in South America, especially in remote areas of the Amazon rainforest, where these bats commonly feed on humans. To better understand the epizootiology of rabies associated with vampire bats, we used complete sequences of the nucleoprotein gene to infer phylogenetic relationships among 157 RABV isolates collected from humans, domestic animals, and wildlife, including bats, in Peru during 2002-2007. This analysis revealed distinct geographic structuring that indicates that RABVs spread gradually and involve different vampire bat subpopulations with different transmission cycles. Three putative new RABV lineages were found in 3 non-vampire bat species that may represent new virus reservoirs. Detection of novel RABV variants and accurate identification of reservoir hosts are critically important for the prevention and control of potential virus transmission, especially to humans.
Collapse
|
19
|
Condori-Condori RE, Streicker DG, Cabezas-Sanchez C, Velasco-Villa A. Enzootic and epizootic rabies associated with vampire bats, peru. Emerg Infect Dis 2014. [PMID: 23969087 PMCID: PMC3810916 DOI: 10.3201/eid1909.130083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
During the past decade, incidence of human infection with rabies virus (RABV) spread by the common vampire bat (Desmodus rotundus) increased considerably in South America, especially in remote areas of the Amazon rainforest, where these bats commonly feed on humans. To better understand the epizootiology of rabies associated with vampire bats, we used complete sequences of the nucleoprotein gene to infer phylogenetic relationships among 157 RABV isolates collected from humans, domestic animals, and wildlife, including bats, in Peru during 2002-2007. This analysis revealed distinct geographic structuring that indicates that RABVs spread gradually and involve different vampire bat subpopulations with different transmission cycles. Three putative new RABV lineages were found in 3 non-vampire bat species that may represent new virus reservoirs. Detection of novel RABV variants and accurate identification of reservoir hosts are critically important for the prevention and control of potential virus transmission, especially to humans.
Collapse
|
20
|
Isolation of a phylogenetically distinct rabies virus from a tufted capuchin monkey (Cebus apella) in Brazil. Virus Res 2013; 178:535-8. [PMID: 24055656 DOI: 10.1016/j.virusres.2013.09.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2013] [Revised: 09/10/2013] [Accepted: 09/10/2013] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
A rabies virus isolate (BRmk1358 strain) was discovered from a rabid tufted capuchin monkey in Brazil. The present study determined the nucleotide sequence of the BRmk1358 strain and compared with the rabies viruses isolated from marmosets and other animals in the Americas. Phylogenetic analyses showed that the BRmk1358 strain formed a lineage distant from that of marmoset rabies virus within the Chiroptera-related rabies virus cluster. This result suggests that the source of rabies infection in the tufted capuchin monkey may have been bat, and that they have a risk to act as rabies reservoir in Brazil.
Collapse
|
21
|
Seetahal JFR, Velasco-Villa A, Allicock OM, Adesiyun AA, Bissessar J, Amour K, Phillip-Hosein A, Marston DA, McElhinney LM, Shi M, Wharwood CA, Fooks AR, Carrington CVF. Evolutionary history and phylogeography of rabies viruses associated with outbreaks in Trinidad. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2013; 7:e2365. [PMID: 23991230 PMCID: PMC3749974 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0002365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2013] [Accepted: 07/01/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Bat rabies is an emerging disease of public health significance in the Americas. The Caribbean island of Trinidad experiences periodic outbreaks within the livestock population. We performed molecular characterisation of Trinidad rabies virus (RABV) and used a Bayesian phylogeographic approach to investigate the extent to which outbreaks are a result of in situ evolution versus importation of virus from the nearby South American mainland. Trinidadian RABV sequences were confirmed as bat variant and clustered with Desmodus rotundus (vampire bat) related sequences. They fell into two largely temporally defined lineages designated Trinidad I and II. The Trinidad I lineage which included sequences from 1997-2000 (all but two of which were from the northeast of the island) was most closely related to RABV from Ecuador (2005, 2007), French Guiana (1990) and Venezuela (1993, 1994). Trinidad II comprised sequences from the southwest of the island, which clustered into two groups: Trinidad IIa, which included one sequence each from 2000 and 2007, and Trinidad IIb including all 2010 sequences. The Trinidad II sequences were most closely related to sequences from Brazil (1999, 2004) and Uruguay (2007, 2008). Phylogeographic analyses support three separate RABV introductions from the mainland from which each of the three Trinidadian lineages arose. The estimated dates for the introductions and subsequent lineage expansions suggest periods of in situ evolution within Trinidad following each introduction. These data also indicate co-circulation of Trinidad lineage I and IIa during 2000. In light of these findings and the likely vampire bat origin of Trinidadian RABV, further studies should be conducted to investigate the relationship between RABV spatiotemporal dynamics and vampire bat population ecology, in particular any movement between the mainland and Trinidad.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Janine F. R. Seetahal
- Department of Preclinical Sciences, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago
- Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, Ministry of Food Production, Champs Fleurs, Trinidad and Tobago
| | - Andres Velasco-Villa
- Rabies Program, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Orchid M. Allicock
- Department of Preclinical Sciences, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago
| | - Abiodun A. Adesiyun
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago
| | - Joseph Bissessar
- Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, Ministry of Food Production, Champs Fleurs, Trinidad and Tobago
| | - Kirk Amour
- National Animal Disease Centre, Centeno, Trinidad and Tobago
| | | | - Denise A. Marston
- Wildlife Zoonoses and Vector-Borne Diseases Research Group, Animal Health and Veterinary Laboratories Agency (AHVLA), Addlestone, Surrey, United Kingdom
| | - Lorraine M. McElhinney
- Wildlife Zoonoses and Vector-Borne Diseases Research Group, Animal Health and Veterinary Laboratories Agency (AHVLA), Addlestone, Surrey, United Kingdom
| | - Mang Shi
- Rabies Program, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | | | - Anthony R. Fooks
- Wildlife Zoonoses and Vector-Borne Diseases Research Group, Animal Health and Veterinary Laboratories Agency (AHVLA), Addlestone, Surrey, United Kingdom
| | - Christine V. F. Carrington
- Department of Preclinical Sciences, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Microarray for Identification of the Chiropteran Host Species of Rabies Virus in Canada. MICROARRAYS 2013; 2:153-69. [PMID: 27605186 PMCID: PMC5003475 DOI: 10.3390/microarrays2020153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2013] [Revised: 05/17/2013] [Accepted: 05/17/2013] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Species identification through genetic barcoding can augment traditional taxonomic methods, which rely on morphological features of the specimen. Such approaches are especially valuable when specimens are in poor condition or comprise very limited material, a situation that often applies to chiropteran (bat) specimens submitted to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency for rabies diagnosis. Coupled with phenotypic plasticity of many species and inconclusive taxonomic keys, species identification using only morphological traits can be challenging. In this study, a microarray assay with associated PCR of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene was developed for differentiation of 14 bat species submitted to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency from 1985–2012 for rabies diagnosis. The assay was validated with a reference collection of DNA from 153 field samples, all of which had been barcoded previously. The COI gene from 152 samples which included multiple specimens of each target species were successfully amplified by PCR and accurately identified by the microarray. One sample that was severely decomposed failed to amplify with PCR primers developed in this study, but amplified weakly after switching to alternate primers and was accurately typed by the microarray. Thus, the chiropteran microarray was able to accurately differentiate between the 14 species of Canadian bats targeted. This PCR and microarray assay would allow unequivocal identification to species of most, if not all, bat specimens submitted for rabies diagnosis in Canada.
Collapse
|
23
|
Guarino H, Castilho JG, Souto J, Oliveira RDN, Carrieri ML, Kotait I. Antigenic and genetic characterization of rabies virus isolates from Uruguay. Virus Res 2013; 173:415-20. [PMID: 23318595 DOI: 10.1016/j.virusres.2012.12.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2012] [Revised: 12/12/2012] [Accepted: 12/13/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
After 25 years without any reported cases of rabies in Uruguay, the northern region of the country experienced an epizootic of bovine paralytic rabies in October 2007. The outbreak affected bovines and equines, and the main source of infection was the bat Desmodus rotundus, the only hematophagous species in the country. From October 2007 to July 2008, 42 bovine, 3 equine and 120 chiropteran samples were submitted to the National Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory for rabies testing. A total of 12 samples (7 bovine, 2 equine and 3 from D. rotundus) were positive by the fluorescent antibody test, and viruses were isolated by the mouse inoculation test. The objective of this study was to compare the antigenic and genetic characteristics of these isolates and three isolates from insectivorous bats from other regions. Antigenic typing using a panel of eight monoclonal antibodies identified all 12 viruses as variant 3 (AgV3), a variant associated with D. rotundus. Two isolates from insectivorous bats (Tadarida brasiliensis and Molossus sp.) were characterized as antigenic variant 4 (AgV4) while the third, from Myotis sp., could not be characterized using this panel as its reactivity pattern did not match that of any of the known antigenic variants. Partial N-gene sequences (nt 149-1420) of these isolates were aligned with homologous sequences derived from GenBank by the CLUSTAL/W method and used to build a neighbor-joining distance tree with the Kimura 2-parameter model. All 12 isolates were genetically grouped into the D. rotundus cluster as they shared 100% identity. In the phylogenetic analysis, the three isolates from insectivorous bats segregated into three clusters: one related to T. brasiliensis, one to Myotis sp. and the other to Lasiurus sp., although the isolate associated with the latter came from a Molossus sp. specimen. These results indicate that AgV3 was associated with the outbreak of bovine paralytic rabies in Uruguay. This is the first report of rabies virus having been detected in non-hematophagous bats in this country.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Helena Guarino
- National Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, M.C. Rubino, Ruta 8 km 17.500, Montevideo, Uruguay.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Abstract
The lyssaviruses are a diverse group of viruses capable of causing rabies, which is an invariably fatal encephalitic disease in both humans and animals. Currently, the lyssavirus genus consists of 12 species with 11 of these distinct species having been isolated from bats. The basis for the apparent geographical segregation of bat lyssavirus infection between the Old and New World is poorly understood. In the New World species of insectivorous, frugivorous, and hematophagous bats, all represent important reservoirs of rabies virus. In contrast, rabies virus has never been detected in Old World bat populations, despite being endemic in terrestrial mammals. Instead, both insectivorous and frugivorous bat species across the Old World appear to act as reservoirs for the non-rabies lyssaviruses. In this chapter, we describe the association of the different lyssaviruses with different bat species across the world, classifying bat species by their feeding behavior.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ashley C. Banyard
- Wildlife Zoonoses and Vector Borne Diseases Research Group, Department of Virology, Animal Health and Veterinary Laboratories Agency, Weybridge, New Haw, Addlestone, Surrey, KT15 3NB, UK
| | - David T.S. Hayman
- Wildlife Zoonoses and Vector Borne Diseases Research Group, Department of Virology, Animal Health and Veterinary Laboratories Agency, Weybridge, New Haw, Addlestone, Surrey, KT15 3NB, UK,Cambridge Infectious Diseases Consortium, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Madingley Road, Cambridge, CB3 0ES, UK,Department of Biology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
| | - Conrad M. Freuling
- Institute of Molecular Biology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, D-17493 Greifswald - Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Thomas Müller
- Institute of Molecular Biology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, D-17493 Greifswald - Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Anthony R. Fooks
- Wildlife Zoonoses and Vector Borne Diseases Research Group, Department of Virology, Animal Health and Veterinary Laboratories Agency, Weybridge, New Haw, Addlestone, Surrey, KT15 3NB, UK,National Consortium for Zoonosis Research, University of Liverpool, Leahurst, Chester High Road, Neston, Wirral, CH64 7TE, UK
| | - Nicholas Johnson
- Wildlife Zoonoses and Vector Borne Diseases Research Group, Department of Virology, Animal Health and Veterinary Laboratories Agency, Weybridge, New Haw, Addlestone, Surrey, KT15 3NB, UK
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Piñero C, Gury Dohmen F, Beltran F, Martinez L, Novaro L, Russo S, Palacios G, Cisterna DM. High diversity of rabies viruses associated with insectivorous bats in Argentina: presence of several independent enzootics. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2012; 6:e1635. [PMID: 22590657 PMCID: PMC3348165 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0001635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2011] [Accepted: 03/20/2012] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Rabies is a fatal infection of the central nervous system primarily transmitted by rabid animal bites. Rabies virus (RABV) circulates through two different epidemiological cycles: terrestrial and aerial, where dogs, foxes or skunks and bats, respectively, act as the most relevant reservoirs and/or vectors. It is widely accepted that insectivorous bats are not important vectors of RABV in Argentina despite the great diversity of bat species and the extensive Argentinean territory. Methods We studied the positivity rate of RABV detection in different areas of the country, and the antigenic and genetic diversity of 99 rabies virus (RABV) strains obtained from 14 species of insectivorous bats collected in Argentina between 1991 and 2008. Results Based on the analysis of bats received for RABV analysis by the National Rabies system of surveillance, the positivity rate of RABV in insectivorous bats ranged from 3.1 to 5.4%, depending on the geographic location. The findings were distributed among an extensive area of the Argentinean territory. The 99 strains of insectivorous bat-related sequences were divided into six distinct lineages associated with Tadarida brasiliensis, Myotis spp, Eptesicus spp, Histiotus montanus, Lasiurus blosseviilli and Lasiurus cinereus. Comparison with RABV sequences obtained from insectivorous bats of the Americas revealed co-circulation of similar genetic variants in several countries. Finally, inter-species transmission, mostly related with Lasiurus species, was demonstrated in 11.8% of the samples. Conclusions This study demonstrates the presence of several independent enzootics of rabies in insectivorous bats of Argentina. This information is relevant to identify potential areas at risk for human and animal infection. In Argentina, successful vaccination and control of terrestrial rabies in the 1980s revealed the importance of the aerial route in RABV transmission. Current distribution of cases shows a predominance of rabies by hematophagous bats in the Northern regions where rabies is a major public health concern; in contrast, in Central and Southern regions where rabies is not a major public health concern, little surveillance is performed. Based on the analysis of insectivorous bats received for RABV analysis by the National Rabies system of surveillance, the positivity rate of RABV in insectivorous bats in these regions ranged from 3.1 to 5.4%. This rate is comparable to other nations such as the United States (9–10%) where insectivorous bats are an important cause of concern for RABV surveillance systems. Antigenic and genetic analysis of a wide collection of rabies strains shows the presence of multiple endemic cycles associated with six bat insectivorous species distributed among an extensive area of the Argentinean territory and several countries of the Americas. Finally, inter-species transmission, mostly related with Lasiurus species, was demonstrated in 11.8% of the samples. Increased public education about the relationship between insectivorous bats and rabies are essential to avoid human cases and potential spread to terrestrial mammals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Piñero
- Servicio de Neurovirosis, Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Administración Nacional de Laboratorios e Institutos de Salud (ANLIS) “Dr. Carlos G. Malbran,” Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | - Fernando Beltran
- Instituto de Zoonosis “Dr. Luis Pasteur,” Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Leila Martinez
- Servicio de Neurovirosis, Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Administración Nacional de Laboratorios e Institutos de Salud (ANLIS) “Dr. Carlos G. Malbran,” Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Laura Novaro
- Dirección de Laboratorio y Control Técnico, Servicio Nacional de Sanidad y Calidad Agroalimentaria, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Susana Russo
- Dirección de Laboratorio y Control Técnico, Servicio Nacional de Sanidad y Calidad Agroalimentaria, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Gustavo Palacios
- National Center for Biodefense and Infectious Diseases, George Mason University, Manassas, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Daniel M. Cisterna
- Servicio de Neurovirosis, Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Administración Nacional de Laboratorios e Institutos de Salud (ANLIS) “Dr. Carlos G. Malbran,” Buenos Aires, Argentina
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Allendorf SD, Cortez A, Heinemann MB, Harary CMA, Antunes JMAP, Peres MG, Vicente AF, Sodré MM, da Rosa AR, Megid J. Rabies virus distribution in tissues and molecular characterization of strains from naturally infected non-hematophagous bats. Virus Res 2012; 165:119-25. [PMID: 22349147 DOI: 10.1016/j.virusres.2012.01.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2011] [Revised: 01/20/2012] [Accepted: 01/22/2012] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Bats are main reservoirs for Lyssavirus worldwide, which is an important public health issue because it constitutes one of the big challenges in rabies control. Yet, little is known about how the virus is maintained among bats, and the epidemiological relationships remain poorly understood. The aim of the present study was to investigate the distribution of the rabies virus (RABV) in bat tissues and organs and to genetically characterize virus isolates from naturally infected non-hematophagous bats. The heminested reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (hnRT-PCR) and sequencing using primers to the nucleoprotein coding gene were performed. The results showed a dissemination of the RABV in different tissues and organs, particularly in the salivary glands, tongue, lungs, kidneys, bladder, intestine and feces, suggesting other possible forms of RABV elimination and the possibility of transmission among these animals. The phylogenetic analysis confirmed that different variants of RABV are maintained by non-hematophagous bats in nature and have similar tissue distribution irrespective of bat species and phylogenetic characterization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Susan Dora Allendorf
- UNESP, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Departamento de Higiene Veterinária e Saúde Pública, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Queiroz LH, Favoretto SR, Cunha EMS, Campos ACA, Lopes MC, de Carvalho C, Iamamoto K, Araújo DB, Venditti LLR, Ribeiro ES, Pedro WA, Durigon EL. Rabies in southeast Brazil: a change in the epidemiological pattern. Arch Virol 2011; 157:93-105. [DOI: 10.1007/s00705-011-1146-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2011] [Accepted: 10/10/2011] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
|
28
|
Nadin-Davis SA, Real LA. Molecular phylogenetics of the lyssaviruses--insights from a coalescent approach. Adv Virus Res 2011; 79:203-38. [PMID: 21601049 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-387040-7.00011-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Technical improvements over the past 2 decades have enormously facilitated the generation of nucleotide sequence data for lyssavirus collections. These databases are amenable to methods of phylogenetic analysis, which attempt to define the taxonomic structure of this genus and predict the evolutionary relationships of current circulating strains. Coupled with a range of mathematical tools to explore the appropriateness of nucleotide substitution models and test for positive selection, the evolutionary process is being explored in detail. Despite the potential for high viral mutation levels, the operation of purifying selection appears to effectively constrain lyssavirus evolution. The recent development of coalescent theory has provided additional approaches to data analysis whereby the time frame of emergence of viral lineages can be most reliably estimated. Such studies suggest that all currently circulating rabies viruses have emerged within the past 1500 years. Moreover, through the capability of analyzing viral population dynamics and determining patterns of population size variation, coalescent approaches can provide insight into the demographics of viral outbreaks. Whereas human-assisted movement of reservoir host species has clearly facilitated transfer of rabies between continents, topographical landscape features significantly influence the rate and extent of contiguous disease spread. Together with empirical studies on virus diversity, the application of coalescent approaches will help to better understand lyssavirus emergence, evolution, and spread. In particular, such methods are presently facilitating exploration of the factors operating to limit the ability of lyssaviruses to establish new persistent virus-host associations and ultimately control the emergence of new species of this genus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Susan A Nadin-Davis
- Centre of Expertise for Rabies, Ottawa Laboratory Fallowfield, Canadian Food Inspection Agency, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
Abstract
Numerous bat species have been identified as important reservoirs of zoonotic viral pathogens. Rabies and rabies-related viruses constitute one of the most important viral zoonoses and pose a significant threat to public health across the globe. Whereas rabies virus (RABV) appears to be restricted to bats of the New World, related lyssavirus species have not been detected in the Americas and have only been detected in bat populations across Africa, Eurasia, and Australia. Currently, 11 distinct species of lyssavirus have been identified, 10 of which have been isolated from bat species and all of which appear to be able to cause encephalitis consistent with that seen with RABV infection of humans. In contrast, whereas lyssaviruses are apparently able to cause clinical disease in bats, it appears that these lyssaviruses may also be able to circulate within bat populations in the absence of clinical disease. This feature of these highly encephalitic viruses, alongside many other aspects of lyssavirus infection in bats, is poorly understood. Here, we review what is known of the complex relationship between bats and lyssaviruses, detailing both natural and experimental infections of these viruses in both chiropteran and nonchiropteran models. We also discuss potential mechanisms of virus excretion, transmission both to conspecifics and spill-over of virus into nonvolant species, and mechanisms of maintenance within bat populations. Importantly, we review the significance of neutralizing antibodies reported within bat populations and discuss the potential mechanisms by which highly neurovirulent viruses such as the lyssaviruses are able to infect bat species in the absence of clinical disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ashley C Banyard
- Rabies and Wildlife Zoonoses Group, Department of Virology, Veterinary Laboratories Agency, Weybridge, New Haw, Addlestone, Surrey, United Kingdom
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Rees EE, Bélanger D, Lelièvre F, Coté N, Lambert L. Targeted surveillance of raccoon rabies in Québec, Canada. J Wildl Manage 2011. [DOI: 10.1002/jwmg.178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
|
31
|
Kuzmin IV, Bozick B, Guagliardo SA, Kunkel R, Shak JR, Tong S, Rupprecht CE. Bats, emerging infectious diseases, and the rabies paradigm revisited. EMERGING HEALTH THREATS JOURNAL 2011; 4:7159. [PMID: 24149032 PMCID: PMC3168224 DOI: 10.3402/ehtj.v4i0.7159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2011] [Revised: 05/31/2011] [Accepted: 05/31/2011] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
The significance of bats as sources of emerging infectious diseases has been increasingly appreciated, and new data have been accumulated rapidly during recent years. For some emerging pathogens the bat origin has been confirmed (such as lyssaviruses, henipaviruses, coronaviruses), for other it has been suggested (filoviruses). Several recently identified viruses remain to be ‘orphan’ but have a potential for further emergence (such as Tioman, Menangle, and Pulau viruses). In the present review we summarize information on major bat-associated emerging infections and discuss specific characteristics of bats as carriers of pathogens (from evolutionary, ecological, and immunological positions). We also discuss drivers and forces of an infectious disease emergence and describe various existing and potential approaches for control and prevention of such infections at individual, populational, and societal levels.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ivan V Kuzmin
- Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA;
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
Re-assessment of direct fluorescent antibody negative brain tissues with a real-time PCR assay to detect the presence of raccoon rabies virus RNA. J Virol Methods 2011; 174:110-6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jviromet.2011.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2011] [Revised: 03/28/2011] [Accepted: 04/07/2011] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
|
33
|
Szanto AG, Nadin-Davis SA, Rosatte RC, White BN. Genetic tracking of the raccoon variant of rabies virus in eastern North America. Epidemics 2011; 3:76-87. [PMID: 21624778 DOI: 10.1016/j.epidem.2011.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2010] [Revised: 01/14/2011] [Accepted: 02/04/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Abstract
To gain insight into the incursion of the raccoon variant of rabies into the raccoon population in three Canadian provinces, a collection of 192 isolates of the raccoon rabies virus (RRV) strain was acquired from across its North American range and was genetically characterized. A 516-nucleotide segment of the non-coding region between the G and L protein open reading frames, corresponding to the most variable region of the rabies virus genome, was sequenced. This analysis identified 119 different sequences, and phylogenetic analysis of the dataset supports the documented history of RRV spread. Three distinct geographically restricted RRV lineages were identified. Lineage 1 was found in Florida, Alabama and Georgia and appears to form the ancestral lineage of the raccoon variant of rabies. Lineage 2, represented by just two isolates, was found only in Florida, while the third lineage appears broadly distributed throughout the rest of the eastern United States and eastern Canada. In New York State, two distinct spatially segregated variants were identified; the one occupying the western and northern portions of the state was responsible for an incursion of raccoon rabies into the Canadian province of Ontario. Isolates from New Brunswick and Quebec form distinct, separate clusters, consistent with their independent origins from neighboring areas of the United States. The data are consistent with localized northward incursion into these three separate areas with no evidence of east-west viral movement between the three Canadian provinces.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Annamaria G Szanto
- DNA and Forensic Science Research Centre, Trent University, Peterborough, Ontario, Canada.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
34
|
Almeida MFD, Favoretto SR, Martorelli LFA, Trezza-Netto J, Campos ACDA, Ozahata CH, Sodré MM, Kataoka APAG, Sacramento DRV, Durigon EL. Characterization of rabies virus isolated from a colony of Eptesicus furinalis bats in Brazil. Rev Inst Med Trop Sao Paulo 2011; 53:31-7. [DOI: 10.1590/s0036-46652011000100006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2009] [Accepted: 10/08/2010] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Some bat species have adapted to the expanding human population by acquiring the ability to roost in urban buildings, increasing the exposure risk for people and domestic animals, and consequently, the likelihood of transmitting rabies. Three dead bats were found in the yard of a house in an urban area of Jundiaí city in the state of São Paulo in southeast Brazil. Two of the three bats tested positive for rabies, using Fluorescent Antibody and Mouse Inoculation techniques. A large colony of Eptesicus furinalis was found in the house's attic, and of the 119 bats captured, four more tested positive for rabies. The objectives of this study were to report the rabies diagnosis, characterize the isolated virus antigenically and genetically, and study the epidemiology of the colony.
Collapse
|
35
|
NADIN-DAVIS SUSANA, FENG YUQIN, MOUSSE DELPHINE, WANDELER ALEXANDERI, ARIS-BROSOU STÉPHANE. Spatial and temporal dynamics of rabies virus variants in big brown bat populations across Canada: footprints of an emerging zoonosis. Mol Ecol 2010; 19:2120-36. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-294x.2010.04630.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
|
36
|
Sodré MM, Gama ARD, Almeida MFD. Updated list of bat species positive for rabies in Brazil. Rev Inst Med Trop Sao Paulo 2010; 52:75-81. [DOI: 10.1590/s0036-46652010000200003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2009] [Accepted: 02/03/2010] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
This paper presents an updated list of bat species positive for rabies in Brazil. It was developed based on database research via the internet, of international and national literature and annals of the most important technical and scientific meetings related to rabies and chiroptera in Brazil from 1996 to 2009. The new list of rabies positive bats consists of 41 species, belonging to 25 genera and three families: Phyllostomidae 43.9%, Vespertilionidae 29.3% and Molossidae 26.8%. In addition, questions were raised regarding the lack of data, including sex, age, circumstances and location of bat capture and incomplete and outdated species identification. Results of genetic and antigenic studies performed on Brazilian rabies positive bats were shown.
Collapse
|
37
|
Nadin-Davis SA, Sheen M, Wandeler AI. Development of real-time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction methods for human rabies diagnosis. J Med Virol 2009; 81:1484-97. [PMID: 19551825 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.21547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
To improve timely ante-mortem human rabies diagnosis, methods to detect viral RNA by TaqMan-based quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reactions (qRT-PCRs) have been developed. Three sets of two primers and one internal dual-labeled probe for each primer set that target distinct conserved regions of the rabies virus N gene were designed and evaluated. Using a collection of 203 isolates representative of the world-wide diversity of rabies virus, all three primers/probe sets were shown to detect a wide range of rabies virus strains with very few detection failures; the RABVD1 set in particular was the most broadly reactive. These qRT-PCR assays were shown to be quantitative over a wide range of viral titer and were 100-1,000 times more sensitive than nested RT-PCR; however, both the standard and real-time PCR methods yielded concordant results when used to test a collection of archived human suspect samples. The qRT-PCR assay was employed to monitor virus load in the saliva of a rabies virus-infected patient undergoing the Milwaukee treatment protocol. However in this case it would appear that reduction of the viral load in the patient's saliva over time did not appear to correlate well with clearance of viral components from the brain.
Collapse
|
38
|
A unique substitution at position 333 on the glycoprotein of rabies virus street strains isolated from non-hematophagous bats in Brazil. Virus Genes 2008; 38:74-9. [PMID: 18941881 DOI: 10.1007/s11262-008-0290-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2008] [Accepted: 09/23/2008] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
The amino acid R or K at position 333 on the glycoprotein of the rabies virus is considered necessary for virulence in adult mice. Although some exceptions exist, substitution at this position causes expression of a phenotype that is either less pathogenic or non-virulent. To date, such substitutions have only been found in fixed strains of rabies virus. In this study, the authors found 333H, 333N, and 333Q substitutions at this position in rabies virus street strains isolated from non-hematophagous bats in Brazil. These strains showed pathogenicity and lethality on passage using adult mice with the intracerebral route and were confirmed rabies-positive by immunofluorescent assay. This suggests that these strains maintain virulence. Our findings indicate that rabies virus street strains with these substitutions exist in the field and may result in infection cycles.
Collapse
|
39
|
|
40
|
Castilho JG, Canello FM, Scheffer KC, Achkar SM, Carrieri ML, Kotait I. Antigenic and genetic characterization of the first rabies virus isolated from the bat Eumops perotis in Brazil. Rev Inst Med Trop Sao Paulo 2008; 50:95-9. [PMID: 18488088 DOI: 10.1590/s0036-46652008000200006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2007] [Accepted: 02/18/2008] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Although the main transmitters of rabies in Brazil are dogs and vampire bats, the role of other species such as insectivorous and frugivorous bats deserves special attention, as the rabies virus has been isolated from 36 bat species. This study describes the first isolation of the rabies virus from the insectivorous bat Eumops perotis. The infected animal was found in the city of Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo. The virus was identified by immunofluorescence antibody test (FAT) in central nervous system (CNS) samples, and the isolation was carried out in N2A cell culture and adult mice. The sample was submitted to antigenic typing using a panel of monoclonal antibodies (CDC/Atlanta/USA). The DNA sequence of the nucleoprotein gene located between nucleotides 102 and 1385 was aligned with homologous sequences from GenBank using the CLUSTAL/W method, and the alignment was used to build a neighbor-joining distance-based phylogenetic tree with the K-2-P model. CNS was negative by FAT, and only one mouse died after inoculation with a suspension from the bat's CNS. Antigenic typing gave a result that was not compatible with the patterns defined by the panel. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the virus isolated segregated into the same cluster related to other viruses isolated from insectivorous bats belonging to genus Nyctinomops ssp. (98.8% nucleotide identity with each other).
Collapse
|
41
|
Neubaum MA, Shankar V, Douglas MR, Douglas ME, O’Shea TJ, Rupprecht CE. An analysis of correspondence between unique rabies virus variants and divergent big brown bat (Eptesicus fuscus) mitochondrial DNA lineages. Arch Virol 2008; 153:1139-42. [DOI: 10.1007/s00705-008-0081-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2007] [Accepted: 02/27/2008] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
|
42
|
Markotter W, Kuzmin I, Rupprecht CE, Nel LH. Phylogeny of Lagos bat virus: challenges for lyssavirus taxonomy. Virus Res 2008; 135:10-21. [PMID: 18359532 DOI: 10.1016/j.virusres.2008.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2007] [Revised: 01/31/2008] [Accepted: 02/02/2008] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Lagos bat virus (LBV) belongs to genotype 2 of the Lyssavirus genus. The complete nucleoprotein (N), phosphoprotein (P), matrixprotein (M) and glycoprotein (G) genes of 13 LBV isolates were sequenced and phylogenetically compared with other lyssavirus representatives. The results identified three different lineages of LBV. One of these lineages demonstrated sufficient sequence diversity to be considered a new lyssavirus genotype (Dakar bat lyssavirus). The suggested quantitative separation of lyssavirus genotypes using the N, P, M and G genes was also investigated using P-distances matrixes. Results indicated that the current criteria should be revised since overlaps between intergenotypic and intragenotypic variation occur.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- W Markotter
- Department of Microbiology and Plant Pathology, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0002, South Africa.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
43
|
Freuling C, Grossmann E, Conraths FJ, Schameitat A, Kliemt J, Auer E, Greiser-Wilke I, Müller T. First isolation of EBLV-2 in Germany. Vet Microbiol 2008; 131:26-34. [PMID: 18424021 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetmic.2008.02.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2007] [Revised: 02/14/2008] [Accepted: 02/26/2008] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
In Europe, rabies in bats is caused by European Bat Lyssavirus (EBLV) type 1 (EBLV-1) or type 2 (EBLV-2) which form two distinct genotypes (gt 5 and 6) within the genus Lyssavirus of the family of Rhadoviridae. Spill-over infections of EBLV in humans have caused fatal rabies encephalitis and highlighted the relevance of this wildlife disease for public health. The vast majority of the 831 European bat rabies cases reported between 1977 and 2006 were identified as EBLV-1. Only few virus isolates originating from Switzerland, The Netherlands and the United Kingdom were characterized as EBLV-2. Here we report the first EBLV-2 case detected in Germany in a Daubenton's bat (Myotis daubentonii) in August 2007. The bat showed clinical signs of disorders of the central nervous system and subsequently tested positive for rabies. The virus was isolated and characterized as EBLV-2 based on its antigen pattern and by nucleotide sequencing. Phylogenetic analysis indicated an association to EBLV-2 isolates from Switzerland which correlates with the origin of the bat close to the Swiss border.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Conrad Freuling
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institute, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, WHO Collaborating Centre for Rabies Surveillance and Research, 16868 Wusterhausen, Germany.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
44
|
Abstract
During lyssavirus surveillance, 1,221 bats of at least 30 species were collected from 25 locations in Kenya. One isolate of Lagos bat virus (LBV) was obtained from a dead Eidolon helvum fruit bat. The virus was most similar phylogenetically to LBV isolates from Senegal (1985) and from France (imported from Togo or Egypt; 1999), sharing with these viruses 100% nucleoprotein identity and 99.8 to 100% glycoprotein identity. This genome conservancy across space and time suggests that LBV is well adapted to its natural host species and that populations of reservoir hosts in eastern and western Africa have sufficient interactions to share pathogens. High virus concentrations, in addition to being detected in the brain, were detected in the salivary glands and tongue and in an oral swab, suggesting that LBV is transmitted in the saliva. In other extraneural organs, the virus was generally associated with innervations and ganglia. The presence of infectious virus in the reproductive tract and in a vaginal swab implies an alternative opportunity for transmission. The isolate was pathogenic for laboratory mice by the intracerebral and intramuscular routes. Serologic screening demonstrated the presence of LBV-neutralizing antibodies in E. helvum and Rousettus aegyptiacus fruit bats. In different colonies the seroprevalence ranged from 40 to 67% and 29 to 46% for E. helvum and R. aegyptiacus, respectively. Nested reverse transcription-PCR did not reveal the presence of viral RNA in oral swabs of bats in the absence of brain infection. Several large bat roosts were identified in areas of dense human populations, raising public health concerns for the potential of lyssavirus infection.
Collapse
|
45
|
Barbosa TFS, Medeiros DBDA, Travassos da Rosa ES, Casseb LMN, Medeiros R, Pereira ADS, Vallinoto ACR, Vallinoto M, Begot AL, Lima RJDS, Vasconcelos PFDC, Nunes MR. Molecular epidemiology of rabies virus isolated from different sources during a bat-transmitted human outbreak occurring in Augusto Correa municipality, Brazilian Amazon. Virology 2007; 370:228-36. [PMID: 17996263 DOI: 10.1016/j.virol.2007.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2007] [Revised: 08/14/2007] [Accepted: 10/05/2007] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
We genetically characterize rabies virus (RABV) strains isolated from human cases, domestic and wild animals during a human outbreak of bat-transmitted rabies in Augusto Correa municipality, Pará state, Brazilian Amazon in 2005. Partial nucleotide sequences of the N gene (491 bp) were obtained for all strains, and phylogenetic analysis grouped these into two major clades (Pará and Central-Southeast) and identified them as bat-related viruses genotype I, Desmodus rotundus antigenic variant 3 (AgV3). A molecular clock was used to estimate the time of emergence for each RABV isolate. The molecular data from this study suggest the association of vampire bats with human and domestic animal cases reported in the outbreak, the circulation of at least two predominant lineages in the Pará state, and also a geographic association to lineages dispersion.
Collapse
|
46
|
Kobayashi Y, Sato G, Kato M, Itou T, Cunha EMS, Silva MV, Mota CS, Ito FH, Sakai T. Genetic diversity of bat rabies viruses in Brazil. Arch Virol 2007; 152:1995-2004. [PMID: 17680325 DOI: 10.1007/s00705-007-1033-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2007] [Accepted: 06/14/2007] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Thirty-three Brazilian bat rabies viruses (RVs) were studied by sequence analysis and were compared against sequences of bat-related RVs from other regions of the Americas. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that bat-related RVs formed several monophyletic lineages and that these were associated with bat species. Brazilian bat RVs were found to include nine major lineages, one of which grouped with RVs isolated from Lasiurus spp. from different regions of the Americas. These results suggest that there is considerable diversity among Brazilian bat RV variants and that some of these RV variants may be associated with bats from other countries.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Y Kobayashi
- Nihon University Veterinary Research Center, Kanagawa, Japan
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
47
|
Shankar V, Orciari LA, De Mattos C, Kuzmin IV, Pape WJ, O'Shea TJ, Rupprecht CE. Genetic divergence of rabies viruses from bat species of Colorado, USA. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2007; 5:330-41. [PMID: 16417429 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2005.5.330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Molecular epidemiological studies have linked many cryptic human rabies cases in the United States with exposure to rabies virus (RV) variants associated with insectivorous bats. In Colorado, bats accounted for 98% of all reported animal rabies cases between 1977 and 1996. The genetic divergence of RV was investigated in bat and terrestrial animal specimens that were submitted for rabies diagnosis to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE), Colorado, USA. RV isolates from animal specimens across the United States were also included in the analysis. Phylogenetic analyses were performed on partial nucleoprotein (N) gene sequences, which revealed seven principal clades. RV associated with the colonial big brown bat, Eptesicus fuscus, an bats of the genus Myotis were found to segregate into two distinct clades (I and IV). Clade I was harbored by E. fuscus and Myotis species, but was also identified in terrestrial animals such as domestic cats and striped skunks (Mephitis mephitis). Clade IV was divided into subclades IVA, IVB, and IVC; IVA was identified in E. fuscus, and Myotis species bats, and also in a fox; subclades IVB and IVC circulated predominantly in E. fuscus. Clade II was formed by big free-tailed bat (Nyctinomops macrotis) and striped skunk (Mephitis mephitis) samples. Clade III included RVs that are maintained by generally solitary, migratory bats such as the silver-haired bat (Lasionycteris noctivagans) and bats of the genus Lasiurus. Big brown bats were found to harbor this RV variant. None of the Colorado specimens segregated with clades V and VII that harbor RVs associated with terrestrial animals. Different species of bats had the same RV variant, indicating active inter-species rabies transmission. In Colorado, animal rabies occurs principally in bats, and the identification of bat RVs in cat, gray fox Urocyon cinereoargenteus), and striped skunks demonstrated the importance of rabies spillover from bats to domestic and terrestrial wildlife species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vidya Shankar
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
48
|
Wong S, Lau S, Woo P, Yuen K. Bats as a continuing source of emerging infections in humans. Rev Med Virol 2007; 17:67-91. [PMID: 17042030 PMCID: PMC7169091 DOI: 10.1002/rmv.520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 212] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2006] [Revised: 08/08/2006] [Accepted: 08/29/2006] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Amongst the 60 viral species reported to be associated with bats, 59 are RNA viruses, which are potentially important in the generation of emerging and re-emerging infections in humans. The prime examples of these are the lyssaviruses and Henipavirus. The transmission of Nipah, Hendra and perhaps SARS coronavirus and Ebola virus to humans may involve intermediate amplification hosts such as pigs, horses, civets and primates, respectively. Understanding of the natural reservoir or introductory host, the amplifying host, the epidemic centre and at-risk human populations are crucial in the control of emerging zoonosis. The association between the bat coronaviruses and certain lyssaviruses with particular bat species implies co-evolution between specific viruses and bat hosts. Cross-infection between the huge number of bat species may generate new viruses which are able to jump the trans-mammalian species barrier more efficiently. The currently known viruses that have been found in bats are reviewed and the risks of transmission to humans are highlighted. Certain families of bats including the Pteropodidae, Molossidae, Phyllostomidae, and Vespertilionidae are most frequently associated with known human pathogens. A systematic survey of bats is warranted to better understand the ecology of these viruses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samson Wong
- Department of Microbiology, Research Centre of Infection and Immunology, The University of Hong Kong, 4/F University Pathology Building, Queen Mary Hospital, 102 Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong
| | - Susanna Lau
- Department of Microbiology, Research Centre of Infection and Immunology, The University of Hong Kong, 4/F University Pathology Building, Queen Mary Hospital, 102 Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong
| | - Patrick Woo
- Department of Microbiology, Research Centre of Infection and Immunology, The University of Hong Kong, 4/F University Pathology Building, Queen Mary Hospital, 102 Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong
| | - Kwok‐Yung Yuen
- Department of Microbiology, Research Centre of Infection and Immunology, The University of Hong Kong, 4/F University Pathology Building, Queen Mary Hospital, 102 Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Picard-Meyer E, Barrat J, Cliquet F. Use of filter paper (FTA) technology for sampling, recovery and molecular characterisation of rabies viruses. J Virol Methods 2006; 140:174-82. [PMID: 17157394 DOI: 10.1016/j.jviromet.2006.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2006] [Revised: 11/08/2006] [Accepted: 11/08/2006] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
This study evaluates the feasibility of the use of the FTA Gene Guard System (a commercial product consisting of filter paper impregnated with patented chemicals supplied by the Whatman company) for the shipment, storage and detection of RNA rabies viruses by a simplified hemi-nested reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. HnRT-PCR of the rabies virus nucleoprotein gene with specific primers showed that viral RNA extracted from crude infected tissues remained stable after fixation on the filter paper under diverse environmental conditions for at least 35 days. The sequence analysis of the products amplified from five out of the seven known genotypes of Lyssaviruses showed the stability of viral RNA viruses after fixation on the filter paper. Furthermore, the sensitivity of the hnRT-PCR following RNA fixation on the filter paper was equivalent to that of standard hnRT-PCR. In conclusion, the stability of viral RNA and the inactivation of infectivity make the FTA technology useful for the storage, transport, collection and subsequent molecular analysis of viral rabies RNA, facilitating epidemiological investigations in the field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- E Picard-Meyer
- National Laboratory of Research on Rabies and Wildlife Diseases, Community Reference Institute for Rabies Serology, AFSSA Nancy, BP 40009, F-54220 Malzéville, France.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
50
|
Nagarajan T, Mohanasubramanian B, Seshagiri EV, Nagendrakumar SB, Saseendranath MR, Satyanarayana ML, Thiagarajan D, Rangarajan PN, Srinivasan VA. Molecular epidemiology of rabies virus isolates in India. J Clin Microbiol 2006; 44:3218-24. [PMID: 16954251 PMCID: PMC1594703 DOI: 10.1128/jcm.00801-06] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
In India, rabies is enzootic and is a serious public health and economic problem. India has a large population of stray dogs which, together with a lack of effective control strategies, might have led to the persistence of rabies virus (RV) in the canine population. Our objective was to study the molecular epidemiology of RV isolates in India based on nucleotide sequence analysis of 29 RV isolates originating from different species of animals in four states. Here we have analyzed two sets of sequence data based upon a 132-nucleotide region of the cytoplasmic domain (CD) of the G gene (G-CD) and a 549-nucleotide region (Psi-L) that combines the noncoding G-L intergenic region (Psi) and a fragment of the polymerase gene (L). Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the RV isolates belong to genotype 1 and that they were related geographically but were not related according to host species. Five different genetic clusters distributed among three geographical regions were identified. Comparison of the deduced amino acid sequences of G-CD between RV isolates revealed three amino acid changes (amino acid 462G [aa462G], aa465H, and aa468K) that distinguished the Indian RVs from RV isolates in other parts of the world. Analysis of the data indicated that the dog rabies virus variants are the major circulating viruses in India that transmit the disease to other domestic animals and humans as well.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- T Nagarajan
- Indian Immunologicals Limited, Gachibowli, Hyderabad 500 032, India
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|