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Koolhof IS, Beeton N, Bettiol S, Charleston M, Firestone SM, Gibney K, Neville P, Jardine A, Markey P, Kurucz N, Warchot A, Krause V, Onn M, Rowe S, Franklin L, Fricker S, Williams C, Carver S. Testing the intrinsic mechanisms driving the dynamics of Ross River Virus across Australia. PLoS Pathog 2024; 20:e1011944. [PMID: 38358961 PMCID: PMC10868856 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1011944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024] Open
Abstract
The mechanisms driving dynamics of many epidemiologically important mosquito-borne pathogens are complex, involving combinations of vector and host factors (e.g., species composition and life-history traits), and factors associated with transmission and reporting. Understanding which intrinsic mechanisms contribute most to observed disease dynamics is important, yet often poorly understood. Ross River virus (RRV) is Australia's most important mosquito-borne disease, with variable transmission dynamics across geographic regions. We used deterministic ordinary differential equation models to test mechanisms driving RRV dynamics across major epidemic centers in Brisbane, Darwin, Mandurah, Mildura, Gippsland, Renmark, Murray Bridge, and Coorong. We considered models with up to two vector species (Aedes vigilax, Culex annulirostris, Aedes camptorhynchus, Culex globocoxitus), two reservoir hosts (macropods, possums), seasonal transmission effects, and transmission parameters. We fit models against long-term RRV surveillance data (1991-2017) and used Akaike Information Criterion to select important mechanisms. The combination of two vector species, two reservoir hosts, and seasonal transmission effects explained RRV dynamics best across sites. Estimated vector-human transmission rate (average β = 8.04x10-4per vector per day) was similar despite different dynamics. Models estimate 43% underreporting of RRV infections. Findings enhance understanding of RRV transmission mechanisms, provide disease parameter estimates which can be used to guide future research into public health improvements and offer a basis to evaluate mitigation practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iain S. Koolhof
- College of Health and Medicine, Tasmanian School of Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
- College of Sciences and Engineering, School of Natural Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | | | - Silvana Bettiol
- College of Health and Medicine, Tasmanian School of Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Michael Charleston
- College of Sciences and Engineering, School of Natural Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Simon M. Firestone
- Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Katherine Gibney
- Victorian Department of Health and Human Services, Communicable Disease Epidemiology and Surveillance, Health Protection Branch, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Peter Neville
- Department of Health, Western Australia, Environmental Health Directorate, Public and Aboriginal Health Division, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Andrew Jardine
- Department of Health, Western Australia, Environmental Health Directorate, Public and Aboriginal Health Division, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Peter Markey
- Centre for Disease Control, Northern Territory Department of Health, Northern Territory, Darwin, Australia
| | - Nina Kurucz
- Centre for Disease Control, Northern Territory Department of Health, Northern Territory, Darwin, Australia
| | - Allan Warchot
- Centre for Disease Control, Northern Territory Department of Health, Northern Territory, Darwin, Australia
| | - Vicki Krause
- Centre for Disease Control, Northern Territory Department of Health, Northern Territory, Darwin, Australia
| | - Michael Onn
- Brisbane City Council, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Stacey Rowe
- Victorian Department of Health and Human Services, Communicable Disease Epidemiology and Surveillance, Health Protection Branch, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lucinda Franklin
- Victorian Department of Health and Human Services, Communicable Disease Epidemiology and Surveillance, Health Protection Branch, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Stephen Fricker
- Australian Centre for Precision Health, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Craig Williams
- Australian Centre for Precision Health, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Scott Carver
- College of Sciences and Engineering, School of Natural Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
- Odum School of Ecology, University of Georgia, Georgia, United States of America
- Center for the Ecology of Infectious Diseases, University of Georgia, Georgia, United States of America
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Ross River Virus Infection: A Cross-Disciplinary Review with a Veterinary Perspective. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10030357. [PMID: 33802851 PMCID: PMC8002670 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10030357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Revised: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Ross River virus (RRV) has recently been suggested to be a potential emerging infectious disease worldwide. RRV infection remains the most common human arboviral disease in Australia, with a yearly estimated economic cost of $4.3 billion. Infection in humans and horses can cause chronic, long-term debilitating arthritogenic illnesses. However, current knowledge of immunopathogenesis remains to be elucidated and is mainly inferred from a murine model that only partially resembles clinical signs and pathology in human and horses. The epidemiology of RRV transmission is complex and multifactorial and is further complicated by climate change, making predictive models difficult to design. Establishing an equine model for RRV may allow better characterization of RRV disease pathogenesis and immunology in humans and horses, and could potentially be used for other infectious diseases. While there are no approved therapeutics or registered vaccines to treat or prevent RRV infection, clinical trials of various potential drugs and vaccines are currently underway. In the future, the RRV disease dynamic is likely to shift into temperate areas of Australia with longer active months of infection. Here, we (1) review the current knowledge of RRV infection, epidemiology, diagnostics, and therapeutics in both humans and horses; (2) identify and discuss major research gaps that warrant further research.
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Johnson BJ, Robbins A, Gyawali N, Ong O, Loader J, Murphy AK, Hanger J, Devine GJ. The environmental and ecological determinants of elevated Ross River Virus exposure in koalas residing in urban coastal landscapes. Sci Rep 2021; 11:4419. [PMID: 33627779 PMCID: PMC7904799 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-83919-1] [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: 08/28/2020] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Koala populations in many areas of Australia have declined sharply in response to habitat loss, disease and the effects of climate change. Koalas may face further morbidity from endemic mosquito-borne viruses, but the impact of such viruses is currently unknown. Few seroprevalence studies in the wild exist and little is known of the determinants of exposure. Here, we exploited a large, spatially and temporally explicit koala survey to define the intensity of Ross River Virus (RRV) exposure in koalas residing in urban coastal environments in southeast Queensland, Australia. We demonstrate that RRV exposure in koalas is much higher (> 80%) than reported in other sero-surveys and that exposure is uniform across the urban coastal landscape. Uniformity in exposure is related to the presence of the major RRV mosquito vector, Culex annulirostris, and similarities in animal movement, tree use, and age-dependent increases in exposure risk. Elevated exposure ultimately appears to result from the confinement of remaining coastal koala habitat to the edges of permanent wetlands unsuitable for urban development and which produce large numbers of competent mosquito vectors. The results further illustrate that koalas and other RRV-susceptible vertebrates may serve as useful sentinels of human urban exposure in endemic areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian J. Johnson
- grid.1049.c0000 0001 2294 1395Mosquito Control Laboratory, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD 4006 Australia
| | - Amy Robbins
- Endeavour Veterinary Ecology Pty Ltd, 1695 Pumicestone Rd, Toorbul, QLD 4510 Australia
| | - Narayan Gyawali
- grid.1049.c0000 0001 2294 1395Mosquito Control Laboratory, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD 4006 Australia
| | - Oselyne Ong
- grid.1049.c0000 0001 2294 1395Mosquito Control Laboratory, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD 4006 Australia
| | - Joanne Loader
- Endeavour Veterinary Ecology Pty Ltd, 1695 Pumicestone Rd, Toorbul, QLD 4510 Australia
| | - Amanda K. Murphy
- grid.1049.c0000 0001 2294 1395Mosquito Control Laboratory, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD 4006 Australia ,grid.1024.70000000089150953School of Public Health and Social Work, Queensland University of Technology, Kelvin Grove, QLD 4059 Australia
| | - Jon Hanger
- Endeavour Veterinary Ecology Pty Ltd, 1695 Pumicestone Rd, Toorbul, QLD 4510 Australia
| | - Gregor J. Devine
- grid.1049.c0000 0001 2294 1395Mosquito Control Laboratory, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD 4006 Australia
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Ong OTW, Skinner EB, Johnson BJ, Old JM. Mosquito-Borne Viruses and Non-Human Vertebrates in Australia: A Review. Viruses 2021; 13:265. [PMID: 33572234 PMCID: PMC7915788 DOI: 10.3390/v13020265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Mosquito-borne viruses are well recognized as a global public health burden amongst humans, but the effects on non-human vertebrates is rarely reported. Australia, houses a number of endemic mosquito-borne viruses, such as Ross River virus, Barmah Forest virus, and Murray Valley encephalitis virus. In this review, we synthesize the current state of mosquito-borne viruses impacting non-human vertebrates in Australia, including diseases that could be introduced due to local mosquito distribution. Given the unique island biogeography of Australia and the endemism of vertebrate species (including macropods and monotremes), Australia is highly susceptible to foreign mosquito species becoming established, and mosquito-borne viruses becoming endemic alongside novel reservoirs. For each virus, we summarize the known geographic distribution, mosquito vectors, vertebrate hosts, clinical signs and treatments, and highlight the importance of including non-human vertebrates in the assessment of future disease outbreaks. The mosquito-borne viruses discussed can impact wildlife, livestock, and companion animals, causing significant changes to Australian ecology and economy. The complex nature of mosquito-borne disease, and challenges in assessing the impacts to non-human vertebrate species, makes this an important topic to periodically review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oselyne T. W. Ong
- Children’s Medical Research Institute, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia;
- Mosquito Control Laboratory, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, QLD 4006, Australia;
| | - Eloise B. Skinner
- Environmental Futures Research Institute, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD 4222, Australia;
- Biology Department, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Brian J. Johnson
- Mosquito Control Laboratory, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, QLD 4006, Australia;
| | - Julie M. Old
- School of Science, Western Sydney University, Hawkesbury, Locked bag 1797, Penrith, NSW 2751, Australia
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Liu W, Kizu JR, Le Grand LR, Moller CG, Carthew TL, Mitchell IR, Gubala AJ, Aaskov JG. Localized Outbreaks of Epidemic Polyarthritis among Military Personnel Caused by Different Sublineages of Ross River Virus, Northeastern Australia, 2016-2017. Emerg Infect Dis 2020; 25:1793-1801. [PMID: 31538560 PMCID: PMC6759257 DOI: 10.3201/eid2510.181610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Two outbreaks of epidemic polyarthritis occurred among Australian Defence Force personnel during and following short military exercises in the Shoalwater Bay Training Area, northeastern Australia, in 2016 and 2017. Ross River virus (RRV) IgM was detected in acute-phase serum samples from most patients (28/28 in 2016 and 25/31 in 2017), and RRV was recovered from 4/38 serum samples assayed (1/21 in 2016 and 3/17 in 2017). Phylogenetic analyses of RRV envelope glycoprotein E2 and nonstructural protein nsP3 nucleotide sequences segregated the RRV isolates obtained in 2016 and 2017 outbreaks into 2 distinct sublineages, suggesting that each outbreak was caused by a different strain of RRV. The spatiotemporal characteristics of the 2016 outbreak suggested that some of the infections involved human-mosquito-human transmission without any intermediate host. These outbreaks highlight the importance of personal protective measures in preventing vectorborne diseases for which no vaccine or specific prophylaxis exists.
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El-Hage CM, Bamford NJ, Gilkerson JR, Lynch SE. Ross River Virus Infection of Horses: Appraisal of Ecological and Clinical Consequences. J Equine Vet Sci 2020; 93:103143. [PMID: 32972681 DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2020.103143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Revised: 05/17/2020] [Accepted: 05/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Ross River virus (RRV) is a mosquito-borne arbovirus of the genus Alphavirus that causes disease in humans and horses in Australia. A temporal association of RRV infection in horses with clinical signs including pyrexia, malaise, and polyarthralgia has been reported, along with reduced athletic performance, often for extended periods. Despite these reports, disease due to RRV remains somewhat controversial as experimental infection of horses has resulted in obvious viraemia yet minimal signs of clinical disease. The relatively high viraemia demonstrated by horses infected with RRV has led to speculation that they could act as an important reservoir host of the virus, although this remains unclear. This review sought to appraise the existing literature relating to RRV infection of horses and to summarize the ecological and clinical consequences of RRV of relevance to the equine industry and to public health more broadly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles M El-Hage
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Nicholas J Bamford
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - James R Gilkerson
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Stacey E Lynch
- Agriculture Victoria Research, AgriBio Centre for AgriBioscience, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia.
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Tall JA, Gatton ML. Flooding and Arboviral Disease: Predicting Ross River Virus Disease Outbreaks Across Inland Regions of South-Eastern Australia. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2020; 57:241-251. [PMID: 31310648 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjz120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Flood frequency is expected to increase across the globe with climate change. Understanding the relationship between flooding and arboviral disease can reduce disease risk and associated costs. South-eastern Australia is dominated by the flood-prone Murray-Darling River system where the incidence of Australia's most common arboviral disease, Ross River virus (RRV), is high. This study aimed to determine the relationship between riverine flooding and RRV disease outbreaks in inland south-eastern Australia, specifically New South Wales (NSW). Each study month from 1991 to 2013, for each of 37 local government areas (LGAs) was assigned 'outbreak/non-outbreak' status based on long-term trimmed-average age-standardized RRV notification rates and 'flood/non-flood' status based on riverine overflow. LGAs were grouped into eight climate zones with the relationship between flood and RRV outbreak modeled using generalized estimating equations. Modeling adjusted for rainfall in the previous 1-3 mo. Spring-summer flooding increased the odds of summer RRV outbreaks in three climate zones before and after adjusting for rainfall 1, 2, and 3 mo prior to the outbreak. Flooding at any time of the year was not predictive of RRV outbreaks in the remaining five climate zones. Predicting RRV disease outbreaks with flood events can assist with more targeted mosquito spraying programs, thereby reducing disease transmission and mosquito resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie A Tall
- School of Public Health and Social Work, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, O Block, Kelvin Grove, Queensland, Australia
| | - Michelle L Gatton
- School of Public Health and Social Work, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, O Block, Kelvin Grove, Queensland, Australia
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8
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Gyawali N, Taylor-Robinson AW, Bradbury RS, Potter A, Aaskov JG. Infection of Western Gray Kangaroos ( Macropus fuliginosus) with Australian Arboviruses Associated with Human Infection. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2019; 20:33-39. [PMID: 31556842 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2019.2467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
More than 75 arboviruses (arthropod-borne viruses) have been identified in Australia. While Alfuy virus (ALFV), Barmah Forest virus (BFV), Edge Hill virus (EHV), Kokobera virus (KOKV), Murray Valley encephalitis virus (MVEV), Sindbis virus (SINV), Ross River virus (RRV), Stratford virus (STRV), and West Nile virus strain Kunjin (KUNV) have been associated with human infection, there remains a paucity of data regarding their respective transmission cycles and any potential nonhuman vertebrate hosts. It is likely that these viruses are maintained in zoonotic cycles involving native animals rather than solely by human-to-human transmission. A serosurvey (n = 100) was undertaken to determine the prevalence of neutralizing antibodies against a panel of Australian arboviruses in western gray kangaroos (Macropus fuliginosus) obtained from 11 locations in the midwest to southwest of Western Australia. Neutralizing antibodies against RRV were detected in 25%, against BFV in 14%, and antibodies to both viruses in 34% of serum samples. The prevalence of antibodies against these two viruses was the same in males and females, but higher in adult than in subadult kangaroos (p < 0.05). Twenty-one percent of samples had neutralizing antibodies against any one or more of the flaviviruses ALFV, EHV, KOKV, MVEV, and STRV. No neutralizing antibodies against SINV and KUNV were detected. If this sample of kangaroo sera was representative of the broader Australian population of macropods, it suggests that they are common hosts for RRV and BFV. The absence or low seroprevalence of antibodies against the remaining arboviruses suggests that they are not prevalent in the region or that kangaroos are not commonly infected with them. The detection of neutralizing antibodies to MVEV requires further investigation as this virus has not been identified previously so far south in Western Australia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Narayan Gyawali
- School of Health, Medical & Applied Sciences, Central Queensland University, Rockhampton, Australia.,Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Andrew W Taylor-Robinson
- School of Health, Medical & Applied Sciences, Central Queensland University, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Richard S Bradbury
- School of Health, Medical & Applied Sciences, Central Queensland University, Rockhampton, Australia
| | - Abbey Potter
- Environmental Health Directorate, Public and Aboriginal Health Division, WA Department of Health, Perth, Australia
| | - John G Aaskov
- Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
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Walker LJ, Selvey LA, Jardine A, Johansen CA, Lindsay MDA. Mosquito and Virus Surveillance as a Predictor of Human Ross River Virus Infection in South-West Western Australia: How Useful Is It? Am J Trop Med Hyg 2019; 99:1066-1073. [PMID: 30182918 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.18-0459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Mosquito and virus surveillance systems are widely used in Western Australia (WA) to support public health efforts to reduce mosquito-borne disease. However, these programs are costly to maintain on a long-term basis. Therefore, we aimed to assess the validity of mosquito numbers and Ross River virus (RRV) isolates from surveillance trap sites as predictors of human RRV cases in south-west WA between 2003 and 2014. Using negative binomial regression modeling, mosquito surveillance was found to be a useful tool for predicting human RRV cases. In eight of the nine traps, when adjusted for season, there was an increased risk of RRV cases associated with elevated mosquito numbers detected 1 month before the onset of human cases for at least one quartile compared with the reference group. The most predictive urban trap sites were located near saltmarsh mosquito habitat, bushland that could sustain macropods and densely populated residential suburbs. This convergence of environments could allow enzootic transmission of RRV to spillover and infect the human population. Close proximity of urban trap sites to each other suggested these sites could be reduced. Ross River virus isolates were infrequent at some trap sites, so ceasing RRV isolation from mosquitoes at these sites or where isolates were not predictive of human cases could be considered. In future, trap sites could be reduced for routine surveillance, allowing other environments to be monitored to broaden the understanding of RRV ecology in the region. A more cost-effective and efficient surveillance program may result from these modifications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liz J Walker
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Linda A Selvey
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Andrew Jardine
- Environmental Health Hazards Unit, Environmental Health Directorate, Public and Aboriginal Health Division, Department of Health Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Cheryl A Johansen
- The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia and PathWest Laboratory Medicine Western Australia, Department of Health Western Australia, Nedlands, Australia
| | - Michael D A Lindsay
- Environmental Health Hazards Unit, Environmental Health Directorate, Public and Aboriginal Health Division, Department of Health Western Australia, Perth, Australia
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10
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Clean bill of health? Towards an understanding of health risks posed by urban ibis. JOURNAL OF URBAN ECOLOGY 2019. [DOI: 10.1093/jue/juz006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
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Levi LI, Vignuzzi M. Arthritogenic Alphaviruses: A Worldwide Emerging Threat? Microorganisms 2019; 7:microorganisms7050133. [PMID: 31091828 PMCID: PMC6560413 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms7050133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2019] [Revised: 05/09/2019] [Accepted: 05/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Arthritogenic alphaviruses are responsible for a dengue-like syndrome associated with severe debilitating polyarthralgia that can persist for months or years and impact life quality. Chikungunya virus is the most well-known member of this family since it was responsible for two worldwide epidemics with millions of cases in the last 15 years. However, other arthritogenic alphaviruses that are as of yet restrained to specific territories are the cause of neglected tropical diseases: O'nyong'nyong virus in Sub-Saharan Africa, Mayaro virus in Latin America, and Ross River virus in Australia and the Pacific island countries and territories. This review evaluates their emerging potential in light of the current knowledge for each of them and in comparison to chikungunya virus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura I Levi
- Populations Virales et Pathogenèse, Institut Pasteur, CNRS UMR 3569, 75015 Paris, France.
- Ecole doctorale BioSPC, Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, 75013 Paris, France.
| | - Marco Vignuzzi
- Populations Virales et Pathogenèse, Institut Pasteur, CNRS UMR 3569, 75015 Paris, France.
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Gyawali N, Taylor-Robinson AW, Bradbury RS, Huggins DW, Hugo LE, Lowry K, Aaskov JG. Identification of the source of blood meals in mosquitoes collected from north-eastern Australia. Parasit Vectors 2019; 12:198. [PMID: 31053094 PMCID: PMC6500030 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-019-3455-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2018] [Accepted: 04/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background More than 70 arboviruses have been identified in Australia and the transmission cycles of most are poorly understood. While there is an extensive list of arthropods from which these viruses have been recovered, far less is known about the non-human hosts that may be involved in the transmission cycles of these viruses and the relative roles of different mosquito species in cycles of transmission involving different hosts. Some of the highest rates of human infection with zoonotic arboviruses, such as Ross River (RRV) and Barmah Forest (BFV) viruses, occur in coastal regions of north-eastern Australia. Methods Engorged mosquitoes collected as a part of routine surveillance using CO2-baited light traps in the Rockhampton Region and the adjoining Shire of Livingstone in central Queensland, north-eastern Australia, were analysed for the source of their blood meal. A 457 or 623 nucleotide region of the cytochrome b gene in the blood was amplified by PCR and the amplicons sequenced. The origin of the blood was identified by comparing the sequences obtained with those in GenBank®. Results The most common hosts for the mosquitoes sampled were domestic cattle (26/54) and wild birds (14/54). Humans (2/54) were an infrequent host for this range of mosquitoes that are known to transmit arboviruses causing human disease, and in an area where infections with human pathogens like RRV and BFV are commonly recorded. The blood meals identified in the most abundant vector analysed, Culex annulirostris, were from 10 different vertebrate hosts. The notable detection of chimpanzee blood in two mosquitoes, presumably obtained from a nearby zoo, extends the known range of hosts for this species. Culex quinquefasciatus and Cx. sitiens fed almost exclusively on a variety of bird species. Conclusions While human-mosquito-human transmission of arboviruses like RRV can occur, this study highlights the potential importance of zoonotic cycles of transmission, including avian species, of arboviruses that are indigenous to Australia. Further studies on larger samples of blood-engorged mosquitoes are required to validate the trends observed herein. Moreover, serological and virological evidence that the hosts on which the mosquitoes are feeding are being infected with arboviruses of interest are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Narayan Gyawali
- School of Health, Medical & Applied Sciences, Central Queensland University, Rockhampton, QLD, 4701, Australia. .,Institute of Health & Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, 4059, Australia. .,Mosquito Control Laboratory, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, 4006, Australia.
| | - Andrew W Taylor-Robinson
- School of Health, Medical & Applied Sciences, Central Queensland University, Brisbane, QLD, 4000, Australia
| | - Richard S Bradbury
- School of Health, Medical & Applied Sciences, Central Queensland University, Rockhampton, QLD, 4701, Australia
| | - David W Huggins
- Public Environments, Livingstone Shire Council, Yeppoon, QLD, 4703, Australia
| | - Leon E Hugo
- Mosquito Control Laboratory, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, 4006, Australia
| | - Kym Lowry
- Institute of Health & Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, 4059, Australia
| | - John G Aaskov
- Institute of Health & Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, 4059, Australia
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13
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Walsh MG. Ecological and life history traits are associated with Ross River virus infection among sylvatic mammals in Australia. BMC Ecol 2019; 19:2. [PMID: 30646881 PMCID: PMC6334474 DOI: 10.1186/s12898-019-0220-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2018] [Accepted: 01/10/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Ross River virus (RRV) is Australia’s most important arbovirus given its annual burden of disease and the relatively large number of Australians at risk for infection. This mosquito-borne arbovirus is also a zoonosis, making its epidemiology and infection ecology complex and cryptic. Our grasp of enzootic, epizootic, and zoonotic RRV transmission dynamics is imprecise largely due to a poor understanding of the role of wild mammalian hosts in the RRV system. Methods The current study applied a piecewise structural equation model (PSEM) toward an interspecific comparison of sylvatic Australian mammals to characterize the ecological and life history profile of species with a history of RRV infection relative to those species with no such history among all wild mammalian species surveyed for RRV infection. The effects of species traits were assessed through multiple causal pathways within the PSEM framework. Results Sylvatic mammalian species with a history of RRV infection tended to express dietary specialization and smaller population density. These species were also characterized by a longer gestation length. Conclusions This study provides the first interspecific comparison of wild mammals for RRV infection and identifies some potential targets for future wildlife surveys into the infection ecology of this important arbovirus. An applied RRV macroecology may prove invaluable to the epidemiological modeling of RRV epidemics across diverse sylvatic landscapes, as well as to the development of human and animal health surveillance systems. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12898-019-0220-5) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael G Walsh
- Marie Bashir Institute for Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia. .,Westmead Institute for Medical Research, The University of Sydney, 176 Hawkesbury Road, Westmead, NSW, 2145, Australia.
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Mackenzie JS, Lindsay MDA, Smith DW, Imrie A. The ecology and epidemiology of Ross River and Murray Valley encephalitis viruses in Western Australia: examples of One Health in Action. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg 2018; 111:248-254. [PMID: 29044370 PMCID: PMC5914307 DOI: 10.1093/trstmh/trx045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2017] [Accepted: 07/27/2017] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Arboviruses are maintained and transmitted through an alternating biological cycle in arthropods and vertebrates, with largely incidental disease in humans and animals. As such, they provide excellent examples of One Health, as their health impact is inextricably linked to their vertebrate hosts, their arthropod vectors and the environment. Prevention and control requires a comprehensive understanding of these interactions, and how they may be effectively and safely modified. This review concentrates on human disease due to Ross River and Murray Valley encephalitis viruses, the two major arboviral pathogens in Australia. It describes how their pattern of infection and disease is influenced by natural climatic and weather patterns, and by anthropogenic activities. The latter includes human-mediated environmental manipulations, such as water impoundment infrastructures, human movements and migration, and community and social changes, such as urban spread into mosquito larval habitats. Effective interventions need to be directed at the environmental precursors of risk. This can best be achieved using One Health approaches to improve collaboration and coordination between different disciplines and cross-sectoral jurisdictions in order to develop more holistic mitigation and control procedures, and to address poorly understood ecological issues through multidisciplinary research.
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Affiliation(s)
- John S Mackenzie
- Department of Microbiology, PathWest Laboratory Medicine WA, QEII Medical Centre, Nedlands, WA 6009
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, GPO Box U1987, Perth, WA 6845
- Corresponding author: Present address: 5E, 16 Kings Park Avenue, Crawley, WA 6009; Tel: +61 439 875 697; E-mail:
| | - Michael D A Lindsay
- Public and Aboriginal Health Division, Department of Health, Grace Vaughan House, Shenton Park, Western Australia, WA 6008
| | - David W Smith
- Department of Microbiology, PathWest Laboratory Medicine WA, QEII Medical Centre, Nedlands, WA 6009
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Allison Imrie
- Department of Microbiology, PathWest Laboratory Medicine WA, QEII Medical Centre, Nedlands, WA 6009
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia
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15
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Walsh MG, Webb C. Hydrological features and the ecological niches of mammalian hosts delineate elevated risk for Ross River virus epidemics in anthropogenic landscapes in Australia. Parasit Vectors 2018; 11:192. [PMID: 29554980 PMCID: PMC5859420 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-018-2776-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2018] [Accepted: 03/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The current understanding of the landscape epidemiology of Ross River virus (RRV), Australia’s most common arthropod-borne pathogen, is fragmented due to gaps in surveillance programs and the relatively narrow focus of the research conducted to date. This leaves public health agencies with an incomplete understanding of the spectrum of infection risk across the diverse geography of the Australian continent. The current investigation sought to assess the risk of RRV epidemics based on abiotic and biotic landscape features in anthropogenic landscapes, with a particular focus on the influence of water and wildlife hosts. Methods Abiotic features, including hydrology, land cover and altitude, and biotic features, including the distribution of wild mammalian hosts, were interrogated using a Maxent model to discern the landscape suitability to RRV epidemics in anthropogenically impacted environments across Australia. Results Water-soil balance, proximity to controlled water reservoirs, and the ecological niches of four species (Perameles nasuta, Wallabia bicolor, Pseudomys novaehollandiae and Trichosurus vulpecula) were important features identifying high risk landscapes suitable for the occurrence of RRV epidemics. Conclusions These results help to delineate human infection risk and thus provide an important perspective for geographically targeted vector, wildlife, and syndromic surveillance within and across the boundaries of local health authorities. Importantly, our analysis highlights the importance of the hydrology, and the potential role of mammalian host species in shaping RRV epidemic risk in peri-urban space. This study offers novel insight into wildlife hosts and RRV infection ecology and identifies those species that may be beneficial to future targeted field surveillance particularly in ecosystems undergoing rapid change. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13071-018-2776-x) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael G Walsh
- Marie Bashir Institute for Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, University of Sydney, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia.
| | - Cameron Webb
- Marie Bashir Institute for Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, University of Sydney, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia.,Department of Medical Entomology, NSW Health Pathology, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
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16
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Stephenson EB, Peel AJ, Reid SA, Jansen CC, McCallum H. The non-human reservoirs of Ross River virus: a systematic review of the evidence. Parasit Vectors 2018; 11:188. [PMID: 29554936 PMCID: PMC5859426 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-018-2733-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2017] [Accepted: 02/20/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding the non-human reservoirs of zoonotic pathogens is critical for effective disease control, but identifying the relative contributions of the various reservoirs of multi-host pathogens is challenging. For Ross River virus (RRV), knowledge of the transmission dynamics, in particular the role of non-human species, is important. In Australia, RRV accounts for the highest number of human mosquito-borne virus infections. The long held dogma that marsupials are better reservoirs than placental mammals, which are better reservoirs than birds, deserves critical review. We present a review of 50 years of evidence on non-human reservoirs of RRV, which includes experimental infection studies, virus isolation studies and serosurveys. We find that whilst marsupials are competent reservoirs of RRV, there is potential for placental mammals and birds to contribute to transmission dynamics. However, the role of these animals as reservoirs of RRV remains unclear due to fragmented evidence and sampling bias. Future investigations of RRV reservoirs should focus on quantifying complex transmission dynamics across environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eloise B Stephenson
- Environmental Futures Research Institute, Griffith University, Brisbane, Queensland, 4111, Australia.
| | - Alison J Peel
- Environmental Futures Research Institute, Griffith University, Brisbane, Queensland, 4111, Australia
| | - Simon A Reid
- The University of Queensland, School of Public Health, Herston, Brisbane, Queensland, 4006, Australia
| | - Cassie C Jansen
- Metro North Public Health Unit, Metro North Hospital and Health Service, Windsor, Brisbane, Queensland, 4030, Australia.,Communicable Diseases Branch, Department of Health, Queensland Government, Herston, Brisbane, Queensland, 4006, Australia
| | - Hamish McCallum
- Environmental Futures Research Institute, Griffith University, Brisbane, Queensland, 4111, Australia
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Clinical Presentation, Progression, and Management of Five Cases of Ross River Virus Infection in Performance Horses Located in Southeast Queensland: A Longitudinal Case Series. J Equine Vet Sci 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2016.12.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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18
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Toi CS, Webb CE, Haniotis J, Clancy J, Doggett SL. Seasonal activity, vector relationships and genetic analysis of mosquito-borne Stratford virus. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0173105. [PMID: 28253306 PMCID: PMC5333861 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0173105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2016] [Accepted: 02/15/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
There are many gaps to be filled in our understanding of mosquito-borne viruses, their relationships with vectors and reservoir hosts, and the environmental drivers of seasonal activity. Stratford virus (STRV) belongs to the genus Flavivirus and has been isolated from mosquitoes and infected humans in Australia but little is known of its vector and reservoir host associations. A total of 43 isolates of STRV from mosquitoes collected in New South Wales between 1995 and 2013 was examined to determine the genetic diversity between virus isolates and their relationship with mosquito species. The virus was isolated from six mosquito species; Aedes aculeatus, Aedes alternans, Aedes notoscriptus, Aedes procax, Aedes vigilax, and Anopheles annulipes. While there were distinct differences in temporal and spatial activity of STRV, with peaks of activity in 2006, 2010 and 2013, a sequence homology of 95.9%-98.4% was found between isolates and the 1961 STRV prototype with 96.2%-100% identified among isolates. Temporal differences but no apparent nucleotide divergence by mosquito species or geographic location was evident. The result suggests the virus is geographically widespread in NSW (albeit only from coastal regions) and increased local STRV activity is likely to be driven by reservoir host factors and local environmental conditions influencing vector abundance. While STRV may not currently be associated with major outbreaks of human disease, with the potential for urbanisation and climate change to increase mosquito-borne disease risks, and the possibility of genomic changes which could produce pathogenic strains, understanding the drivers of STRV activity may assist the development of strategic response to public health risks posed by zoonotic flaviviruses in Australia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheryl S. Toi
- Department of Medical Entomology, Centre for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology Laboratory Services, NSW Health Pathology, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Cameron E. Webb
- Department of Medical Entomology, Centre for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology Laboratory Services, NSW Health Pathology, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
- Marie Bashir Institute for Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity, University of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - John Haniotis
- Department of Medical Entomology, Centre for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology Laboratory Services, NSW Health Pathology, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
| | - John Clancy
- Department of Medical Entomology, Centre for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology Laboratory Services, NSW Health Pathology, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Stephen L. Doggett
- Department of Medical Entomology, Centre for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology Laboratory Services, NSW Health Pathology, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
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Epidemic host community contribution to mosquito-borne disease transmission: Ross River virus. Epidemiol Infect 2016; 145:656-666. [PMID: 27890043 DOI: 10.1017/s0950268816002739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Most vector-borne diseases infect multiple host species, but disentangling the relative importance of different host species to transmission can be complex. Here we study how host species' abundance and competence (duration and titre of parasitaemia) influence host importance during epidemic scenarios. We evaluate this theory using Ross River virus (RRV, family Togaviridae, genus Alphavirus), a multi-host mosquito-borne disease with significant human health impacts across Australia and Papua New Guinea. We used host contribution models to find the importance of key hosts (possums, wallabies, kangaroos, horses, humans) in typical mammal communities around five Australian epidemic centres. We found humans and possums contributed most to epidemic RRV transmission, owing to their high abundances, generally followed by macropods. This supports humans as spillover hosts, and that human-mosquito and possum-mosquito transmission is predominant during epidemics. Sensitivity analyses indicate these findings to be robust across epidemic centres. We emphasize the importance of considering abundance and competence in identifying key hosts (during epidemics in this case), and that competence alone is inadequate. Knowledge of host importance in disease transmission may help to equip health agencies to bring about greater effectiveness of disease mitigation strategies.
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Jardine A, Neville PJ, Lindsay MDA. Proximity to mosquito breeding habitat and Ross River virus risk in the Peel region of Western Australia. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2016; 15:141-6. [PMID: 25700045 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2014.1693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
It is intuitive that vector-borne disease exposure risk is related to proximity to sources of vector breeding, but this aspect rarely receives empirical testing. The population of Western Australia (WA) is increasing rapidly, with many new residential developments proposed in close proximity to mosquito breeding habitat. However, potential mosquito-borne disease risks for future residents are given little consideration by planning authorities. The Peel region is one of the fastest growing regions in WA and regularly experiences a large number of cases of the mosquito-borne Ross River virus (RRV) disease with epidemics occuring in the region every few years. A spatial analysis of RRV disease data in the Peel region was undertaken to determine the risk associated with proximity to a mosquito breeding habitat. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) software was used to create buffers between 1 and 6 km from the breeding habitat. The number of cases per 1000 dwellings in each buffer was calculated between 2002/03 to 2011/12 for years with >100 cases across all buffers (n=5) in addition to the cumulative rate over the entire period in each buffer. Residents living within 1 km of a mosquito breeding habitat had a significantly higher rate of RRV disease compared to the background rate across the Peel region in all individual years investigated. The cumulative data over the 10-year study period showed that residents in the 1- and 2-km buffers had a significantly higher rate, whereas those living between 3 and 6 km away did not. This study demonstrates an increased mosquito-borne disease risk associated with living in close proximity to a mosquito breeding habitat in a rapidly expanding region of WA and highlights the importance of considering mosquito-borne disease risks when planning authorities assess new residential development applications. Known mosquito breeding wetlands should be incorporated into land use planning scheme maps to ensure that they are accurately delineated and the implications are considered when planning decisions are made.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Jardine
- 1 Mosquito-Borne Disease Control, Environmental Health Hazards Unit , Environmental Health Directorate, Department of Health Western Australia, Western Australia , Australia
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Claflin SB, Webb CE. Ross River Virus: Many Vectors and Unusual Hosts Make for an Unpredictable Pathogen. PLoS Pathog 2015; 11:e1005070. [PMID: 26335937 PMCID: PMC4559463 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1005070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Suzi B. Claflin
- Department of Entomology, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States of America
| | - Cameron E. Webb
- Department of Medical Entomology, University of Sydney and Pathology West—ICPMR Westmead, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
- * E-mail:
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