|
1
|
Duerlund LS, Nielsen H, Bodilsen J. Current epidemiology of infectious encephalitis: a narrative review. Clin Microbiol Infect 2025; 31:515-521. [PMID: 39725074 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmi.2024.12.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2024] [Revised: 12/05/2024] [Accepted: 12/18/2024] [Indexed: 12/28/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infectious encephalitis poses a global health challenge with high mortality and severe neurological consequences in survivors. Emerging pathogens and outbreaks are reshaping the patterns of the disease. OBJECTIVES The objective of this study is to understand the current epidemiology for improving prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. SOURCES Medline/PubMed was searched using 'encephalitis' and related MeSH terms from 2020 to September 2024. Population-based and case-control studies on encephalitis were searched without time restrictions. Other studies known by the authors were also included. CONTENT The incidence of infectious encephalitis ranged from 1.4 to 13.8 cases per 100 000 per year with a bimodal peak in infants and older adults. Herpes viruses remain the most common causes of sporadic encephalitis with herpes simplex virus type 1 and varicella zoster virus reported most frequently. In endemic regions, arboviruses such as Japanese encephalitis virus and West Nile virus contribute significantly to the disease burden. Climate change is adding to the spread of these vector-borne viruses thereby both altering the geographical distribution of causative agents and increasing the frequency of outbreaks. Evidence on risk factors associated with encephalitis is scarce and hampered by the absence of population-based case-control studies. The prognosis of infectious encephalitis remains unchanged during recent decades with high case-fatality rates and may vary according to, e.g. aetiology, age, and presence of immunocompromising conditions or other comorbidities. Importantly, a substantial proportion of survivors are left with disabling neurological sequelae. IMPLICATIONS The findings underscore the importance of public health surveillance and prevention strategies to address the changing epidemiology of encephalitis. This can be pursued through vaccination programmes and vector control efforts. Future research should focus on identifying risk factors, improving diagnostic tools, optimizing current treatment as well as exploring novel therapies for patients with encephalitis. Timely treatment and specialised post-hospital rehabilitation remain essential for patient management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lærke Storgaard Duerlund
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark; European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases Study Group of Infections of the Brain (ESGIB), Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Henrik Nielsen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark; European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases Study Group of Infections of the Brain (ESGIB), Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jacob Bodilsen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark; European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases Study Group of Infections of the Brain (ESGIB), Basel, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
|
2
|
Schopf F, Sadeghi B, Bergmann F, Fischer D, Rahner R, Müller K, Günther A, Globig A, Keller M, Schwehn R, Guddorf V, Reuschel M, Fischer L, Krone O, Rinder M, Schütte K, Schmidt V, Heenemann K, Schwarzer A, Fast C, Sauter-Louis C, Staubach C, Lühken R, Schmidt-Chanasit J, Brandes F, Lierz M, Korbel R, Vahlenkamp TW, Groschup MH, Ziegler U. Circulation of West Nile virus and Usutu virus in birds in Germany, 2021 and 2022. Infect Dis (Lond) 2025; 57:256-277. [PMID: 39520671 DOI: 10.1080/23744235.2024.2419859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2024] [Revised: 10/16/2024] [Accepted: 10/17/2024] [Indexed: 11/16/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Usutu virus (USUV) and West Nile virus (WNV) are zoonotic arthropod-borne orthoflaviviruses. The enzootic transmission cycles of both include Culex mosquitoes as vectors and birds as amplifying hosts. For more than 10 years, these viruses have been monitored in birds in Germany by a multidisciplinary network. While USUV is present nationwide, WNV used to be restricted to the central-east. METHODS In 2021 and 2022, over 2300 live bird blood samples and organs from over 3000 deceased birds were subjected to molecular and serological analysis regarding the presence of WNV and USUV. The samples were collected at sites all over Germany. RESULTS Circulation of both viruses increased in 2022. For USUV, the nationwide presence of lineages Africa 3 and Europe 3 reported in previous years was confirmed. Lineage Europe 2, formerly restricted to the German east, was able to expand westward. Nonetheless, USUV neutralizing antibody (nAb) detection rates remained low (< 9%). Years 2021 and 2022 were characterized by stable enzootic circulation of WNV lineage 2, dominated by one previously identified subcluster (95% of generated sequences). In 2022, >20% of birds in the endemic region in eastern Germany carried nAb against WNV. Serological data also indicate expanding WNV circulation west and south of the known hotspots in Germany. CONCLUSIONS USUV circulates enzootically nationwide. Emergence of WNV at several new locations in Germany with a potential increase in human infections may be imminent. In this context, wild bird monitoring serves as a capable early warning system in a One Health setting.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Franziska Schopf
- Institute of Novel and Emerging Infectious Diseases, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
- German Center of Infection Research (DZIF), Partner site Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel-Riems, Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Balal Sadeghi
- Institute of Novel and Emerging Infectious Diseases, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Felicitas Bergmann
- Institute of Novel and Emerging Infectious Diseases, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Dominik Fischer
- Clinic for Birds, Reptiles, Amphibians and Fish, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
- Der Grüne Zoo Wuppertal, Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Ronja Rahner
- Clinic for Birds, Reptiles, Amphibians and Fish, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Kerstin Müller
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Small Animal Clinic, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Anne Günther
- Institute of Diagnostic Virology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Anja Globig
- Institute of International Animal Health/One Health, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Markus Keller
- Institute of Novel and Emerging Infectious Diseases, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Rebekka Schwehn
- Department of Small Mammal, Reptile and Avian Diseases, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover Foundation, Hannover, Germany
- Seehundstation Nationalpark-Haus Norden-Norddeich, Norden, Germany
| | - Vanessa Guddorf
- Seehundstation Nationalpark-Haus Norden-Norddeich, Norden, Germany
| | - Maximilian Reuschel
- Department of Small Mammal, Reptile and Avian Diseases, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | - Luisa Fischer
- Wildlife Research Institute, State Agency for Nature, Environment and Consumer Protection North Rhine-Westphalia, Bonn, Germany
| | - Oliver Krone
- Department of Wildlife Diseases, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW), Berlin, Germany
| | - Monika Rinder
- Clinic for Birds, Small Mammals, Reptiles and Ornamental Fish, Centre for Clinical Veterinary Medicine, Ludwig Maximilians University Munich, Oberschleißheim, Germany
| | - Karolin Schütte
- Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Centre, Sachsenhagen, Germany
| | - Volker Schmidt
- Clinic for Birds and Reptiles, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Kristin Heenemann
- Institute of Virology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Anne Schwarzer
- Institute of Novel and Emerging Infectious Diseases, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Christine Fast
- Institute of Novel and Emerging Infectious Diseases, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Carola Sauter-Louis
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Institute of Epidemiology, Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Christoph Staubach
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Institute of Epidemiology, Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Renke Lühken
- Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Hamburg, Germany
| | | | - Florian Brandes
- Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Centre, Sachsenhagen, Germany
| | - Michael Lierz
- Clinic for Birds, Reptiles, Amphibians and Fish, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Rüdiger Korbel
- Clinic for Birds, Small Mammals, Reptiles and Ornamental Fish, Centre for Clinical Veterinary Medicine, Ludwig Maximilians University Munich, Oberschleißheim, Germany
| | - Thomas W Vahlenkamp
- Institute of Virology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Martin H Groschup
- Institute of Novel and Emerging Infectious Diseases, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
- German Center of Infection Research (DZIF), Partner site Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel-Riems, Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Ute Ziegler
- Institute of Novel and Emerging Infectious Diseases, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
- German Center of Infection Research (DZIF), Partner site Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel-Riems, Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
|
3
|
Gobbo F, Chiarello G, Sgubin S, Toniolo F, Gradoni F, Danca LI, Carlin S, Capello K, De Conti G, Bortolami A, Varotto M, Favero L, Brichese M, Russo F, Mutinelli F, Vogiatzis S, Pacenti M, Barzon L, Montarsi F. Integrated One Health Surveillance of West Nile Virus and Usutu Virus in the Veneto Region, Northeastern Italy, from 2022 to 2023. Pathogens 2025; 14:227. [PMID: 40137712 PMCID: PMC11945005 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens14030227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2025] [Revised: 02/18/2025] [Accepted: 02/24/2025] [Indexed: 03/29/2025] Open
Abstract
West Nile virus (WNV) and Usutu virus (USUV) are neurotropic mosquito-borne orthoflaviviruses maintained in an enzootic cycle, in which birds are amplifying/reservoir hosts, while humans and equids are dead-end hosts. As northern Italy, especially the Veneto Region, is considered an endemic area for WNV and USUV circulation, a surveillance plan based on a One Health approach has been implemented since 2008. This work reports the results of entomological, veterinary and human surveillances for WNV and USUV in the Veneto Region in 2022 and 2023, through virological and/or serological examinations. In 2022, 531 human WNV infections were recorded, and 93,213 mosquitoes and 2193 birds were virologically tested, showing infection rates (IRs) of 4.85% and 8.30%, respectively. The surveillance effort in 2023 provided these results: 56 human WNV infections were confirmed, and 133,648 mosquitoes and 1812 birds were virologically tested, showing IRs of 1.78% and 4.69%, respectively. This work highlights the exceptional circulation of WNV in the Veneto Region, due to the new re-introduction of WNV lineage 1 and co-circulation with WNV lineage 2. This paper confirms the efficacy of integrated surveillance for early warning of viral circulation and gives new insights about avian hosts involved in the enzootic cycle of orthoflavivirus in the endemic region of Italy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Federica Gobbo
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Viale dell’Università 10, 35020 Legnaro, Italy; (G.C.); (S.S.); (F.T.); (F.G.); (L.I.D.); (S.C.); (K.C.); (G.D.C.); (A.B.); (M.V.); (F.M.); (F.M.)
| | - Giulia Chiarello
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Viale dell’Università 10, 35020 Legnaro, Italy; (G.C.); (S.S.); (F.T.); (F.G.); (L.I.D.); (S.C.); (K.C.); (G.D.C.); (A.B.); (M.V.); (F.M.); (F.M.)
| | - Sofia Sgubin
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Viale dell’Università 10, 35020 Legnaro, Italy; (G.C.); (S.S.); (F.T.); (F.G.); (L.I.D.); (S.C.); (K.C.); (G.D.C.); (A.B.); (M.V.); (F.M.); (F.M.)
| | - Federica Toniolo
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Viale dell’Università 10, 35020 Legnaro, Italy; (G.C.); (S.S.); (F.T.); (F.G.); (L.I.D.); (S.C.); (K.C.); (G.D.C.); (A.B.); (M.V.); (F.M.); (F.M.)
| | - Francesco Gradoni
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Viale dell’Università 10, 35020 Legnaro, Italy; (G.C.); (S.S.); (F.T.); (F.G.); (L.I.D.); (S.C.); (K.C.); (G.D.C.); (A.B.); (M.V.); (F.M.); (F.M.)
| | - Lidia Iustina Danca
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Viale dell’Università 10, 35020 Legnaro, Italy; (G.C.); (S.S.); (F.T.); (F.G.); (L.I.D.); (S.C.); (K.C.); (G.D.C.); (A.B.); (M.V.); (F.M.); (F.M.)
| | - Sara Carlin
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Viale dell’Università 10, 35020 Legnaro, Italy; (G.C.); (S.S.); (F.T.); (F.G.); (L.I.D.); (S.C.); (K.C.); (G.D.C.); (A.B.); (M.V.); (F.M.); (F.M.)
| | - Katia Capello
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Viale dell’Università 10, 35020 Legnaro, Italy; (G.C.); (S.S.); (F.T.); (F.G.); (L.I.D.); (S.C.); (K.C.); (G.D.C.); (A.B.); (M.V.); (F.M.); (F.M.)
| | - Giacomo De Conti
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Viale dell’Università 10, 35020 Legnaro, Italy; (G.C.); (S.S.); (F.T.); (F.G.); (L.I.D.); (S.C.); (K.C.); (G.D.C.); (A.B.); (M.V.); (F.M.); (F.M.)
| | - Alessio Bortolami
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Viale dell’Università 10, 35020 Legnaro, Italy; (G.C.); (S.S.); (F.T.); (F.G.); (L.I.D.); (S.C.); (K.C.); (G.D.C.); (A.B.); (M.V.); (F.M.); (F.M.)
| | - Maria Varotto
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Viale dell’Università 10, 35020 Legnaro, Italy; (G.C.); (S.S.); (F.T.); (F.G.); (L.I.D.); (S.C.); (K.C.); (G.D.C.); (A.B.); (M.V.); (F.M.); (F.M.)
| | - Laura Favero
- Department of Prevention, Food Safety and Veterinary, Veneto Region, 30123 Venice, Italy; (L.F.); (M.B.); (F.R.)
| | - Michele Brichese
- Department of Prevention, Food Safety and Veterinary, Veneto Region, 30123 Venice, Italy; (L.F.); (M.B.); (F.R.)
| | - Francesca Russo
- Department of Prevention, Food Safety and Veterinary, Veneto Region, 30123 Venice, Italy; (L.F.); (M.B.); (F.R.)
| | - Franco Mutinelli
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Viale dell’Università 10, 35020 Legnaro, Italy; (G.C.); (S.S.); (F.T.); (F.G.); (L.I.D.); (S.C.); (K.C.); (G.D.C.); (A.B.); (M.V.); (F.M.); (F.M.)
| | - Stefania Vogiatzis
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua, Via A. Gabelli 63, 35121 Padova, Italy; (S.V.); (M.P.); (L.B.)
| | - Monia Pacenti
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua, Via A. Gabelli 63, 35121 Padova, Italy; (S.V.); (M.P.); (L.B.)
| | - Luisa Barzon
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua, Via A. Gabelli 63, 35121 Padova, Italy; (S.V.); (M.P.); (L.B.)
| | - Fabrizio Montarsi
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Viale dell’Università 10, 35020 Legnaro, Italy; (G.C.); (S.S.); (F.T.); (F.G.); (L.I.D.); (S.C.); (K.C.); (G.D.C.); (A.B.); (M.V.); (F.M.); (F.M.)
| |
Collapse
|
|
4
|
Dziadek K, Niczyporuk JS, Styś-Fijoł N, Czujkowska A, Śmietanka K, Domańska-Blicharz K. Usutu virus continues to spread across Europe: first report of multiple molecular detections of the USUV Africa 2 and Africa 3 lineages in free-living and captive birds in Poland, July-November 2023. Vet Res 2025; 56:43. [PMID: 39962596 PMCID: PMC11831792 DOI: 10.1186/s13567-025-01460-9] [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: 08/26/2024] [Accepted: 12/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2025] Open
Abstract
The growing importance of the Usutu virus (USUV) as an emerging zoonotic viral pathogen motivated Poland to investigate the epidemiological status of USUV infections among native bird species. Consequently, out of the 357 birds tested, 34 avian individuals from different geographical areas of the country were confirmed to be USUVpositive by RT‒PCR between July and November 2023. The phylogenetic analysis revealed the first recorded occurrence of the USUV Africa 2 and Africa 3 genetic lineages in Poland.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kamila Dziadek
- Department of Poultry Diseases, National Veterinary Research Institute, Puławy, Poland.
| | | | - Natalia Styś-Fijoł
- Department of Poultry Diseases, National Veterinary Research Institute, Puławy, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Czujkowska
- Rehabilitation Centre for Birds "Bird Asylum", Municipal Zoological Garden in Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Krzysztof Śmietanka
- Department of Poultry Diseases, National Veterinary Research Institute, Puławy, Poland
| | | |
Collapse
|
|
5
|
Nelson AN, Ploss A. Emerging mosquito-borne flaviviruses. mBio 2024; 15:e0294624. [PMID: 39480108 PMCID: PMC11633211 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.02946-24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Flaviviruses comprise a genus of enveloped, positive-sense, single-stranded RNA viruses typically transmitted between susceptible and permissive hosts by arthropod vectors. Established flavivirus threats include dengue viruses (DENV), yellow fever virus (YFV), Zika virus (ZIKV), and West Nile virus (WNV), which continue to cause over 400 million infections annually and are significant global health and economic burdens. Additionally, numerous closely related but largely understudied viruses circulate in animals and can conceivably emerge in human populations. Previous flaviviruses that were recognized to have this potential include ZIKV and WNV, which only became extensively studied after causing major outbreaks in humans. More than 50 species exist within the flavivirus genus, which can be further classified as mosquito-borne, tick-borne, insect-specific, or with no known vector. Historically, many of these flaviviruses originated in Africa and have mainly affected tropical and subtropical regions due to the ecological niche of mosquitoes. However, climate change, as well as vector and host migration, has contributed to geographical expansion, thereby posing a potential risk to global populations. For the purposes of this minireview, we focus on the mosquito-borne subgroup and highlight viruses that cause significant pathology or lethality in at least one animal species and/or have demonstrated an ability to infect humans. We discuss current knowledge of these viruses, existing animal models to study their pathogenesis, and potential future directions. Emerging viruses discussed include Usutu virus (USUV), Wesselsbron virus (WSLV), Spondweni virus (SPOV), Ilheus virus (ILHV), Rocio virus (ROCV), Murray Valley encephalitis virus (MVEV), and Alfuy virus (ALFV).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amy N. Nelson
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey, USA
| | - Alexander Ploss
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey, USA
| |
Collapse
|
|
6
|
Pilgrim J, Metelmann S, Widlake E, Seechurn N, Vaux A, Mansfield KL, Tanianis-Hughes J, Sherlock K, Johnson N, Medlock J, Baylis M, Blagrove MS. UK mosquitoes are competent to transmit Usutu virus at native temperatures. One Health 2024; 19:100916. [PMID: 39497950 PMCID: PMC11532274 DOI: 10.1016/j.onehlt.2024.100916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2024] [Revised: 09/27/2024] [Accepted: 10/11/2024] [Indexed: 11/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Usutu virus (USUV) is an emerging zoonotic virus transmitted primarily by Culex mosquitoes. Since its introduction into Europe from Africa during the late 20th century, it has caused mortality within populations of passerine birds and captive owls, and can on occasion lead to disease in humans. USUV was first detected in the UK in 2020 and has become endemic, having been detected in either birds and/or mosquitoes every subsequent year. Importantly, the vector competence of indigenous mosquitoes for the circulating UK (London) USUV strain at representative regional temperatures is still to be elucidated. This study assessed the vector competence of five field-collected mosquito species/biotypes, Culex pipiens biotype molestus, Culex pipiens biotype pipiens, Culex torrentium, Culiseta annulata and Aedes detritus for the London USUV strain, with infection rates (IR) and transmission rates (TR) evaluated between 7 and 28 days post-infection. Infection and transmission were observed in all species/biotypes aside from Ae. detritus and Cx. torrentium. For Cx. pipiens biotype molestus, transmission potential suggests these populations should be monitored further for their role in transmission to humans. Furthermore, both Cx. pipiens biotype pipiens and Cs. annulata were shown to be competent vectors at 19 °C indicating the potential for geographical spread of the virus to other UK regions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jack Pilgrim
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3BX, UK
| | - Soeren Metelmann
- North West Field Service, UK Health Security Agency, Liverpool L3 1EL, UK
| | - Emma Widlake
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3BX, UK
| | - Nicola Seechurn
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3BX, UK
| | - Alexander Vaux
- Medical Entomology and Zoonoses Ecology group, UK Health Security Agency, Porton Down, Salisbury SP4 0JG, UK
| | - Karen L. Mansfield
- Animal and Plant Health Agency, Woodham Lane, Addlestone, Surrey KT15 3NB, UK
| | - Jola Tanianis-Hughes
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3BX, UK
| | - Ken Sherlock
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3BX, UK
| | - Nicholas Johnson
- Animal and Plant Health Agency, Woodham Lane, Addlestone, Surrey KT15 3NB, UK
| | - Jolyon Medlock
- Medical Entomology and Zoonoses Ecology group, UK Health Security Agency, Porton Down, Salisbury SP4 0JG, UK
| | - Matthew Baylis
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3BX, UK
| | - Marcus S.C. Blagrove
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3BX, UK
| |
Collapse
|
|
7
|
de la Calle-Prieto F, Arsuaga M, Rodríguez-Sevilla G, Paiz NS, Díaz-Menéndez M. The current status of arboviruses with major epidemiological significance in Europe. ENFERMEDADES INFECCIOSAS Y MICROBIOLOGIA CLINICA (ENGLISH ED.) 2024; 42:516-526. [PMID: 39505461 DOI: 10.1016/j.eimce.2024.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 09/10/2024] [Indexed: 11/08/2024]
Abstract
Currently, an increasing impact of some arboviruses has been observed in Europe, mainly Dengue (DENV), Chikungunya (CHIKV), Zika (ZIKV), West Nile (WNV), and Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHFV) analyzed through a One Health perspective that considers their expansion across the continent. Arboviruses are primarily transmitted by vectors such as mosquitoes and ticks, with human activities and climate change playing crucial roles in their spread. The review highlights the ecological and epidemiological aspects of arboviruses, emphasizing the roles of diverse hosts and reservoirs, including humans, animals, and vectors, in their life cycles. The influence of climate change on the ecology of the vector, which potentially favors the arbovirus transmission, is also reviewed. Focusing on diagnosis, prevention and in the absence of specific treatments, the importance of understanding vector-host interactions and environmental impacts to develop effective control and prevention strategies is emphasized. Ongoing research on vaccines and therapies is crucial to mitigate the public health impact of these diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fernando de la Calle-Prieto
- National Referral Unit for Imported Diseases and International Health, High Level Isolation Unit, La Paz-Carlos III-CB University Hospital, Madrid, Spain; CIBERINFEC, Spain.
| | - Marta Arsuaga
- National Referral Unit for Imported Diseases and International Health, High Level Isolation Unit, La Paz-Carlos III-CB University Hospital, Madrid, Spain; CIBERINFEC, Spain
| | | | - Nancy Sandoval Paiz
- Internal Medicine-Infectious Diseases MSc, Tropical Parasitic Diseases, Roosevelt Hospital, Guatemala City, GT, United States
| | - Marta Díaz-Menéndez
- National Referral Unit for Imported Diseases and International Health, High Level Isolation Unit, La Paz-Carlos III-CB University Hospital, Madrid, Spain; CIBERINFEC, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
|
8
|
González MA, Chaskopoulou A, Georgiou L, Frontera E, Cáceres F, Masia M, Gutiérrez-Climente R, Ambert GL, Osório H, Seixas G, Defilippo F, Calzolari M, Montarsi F, Mosca A, Figuerola J. Mosquito management strategies in European rice fields: Environmental and public health perspectives. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2024; 370:122534. [PMID: 39316873 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2024.122534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2024] [Revised: 09/14/2024] [Accepted: 09/15/2024] [Indexed: 09/26/2024]
Abstract
Rice is a crucial food source and an important economic activity globally. Rice fields provide habitats for birds and other organisms but also serve as ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes, including potential vectors such as Culex, Aedes, and Anopheles. There is an urgent need to manage mosquitoes associated with rice crops, as they are important pests and vectors of diverse pathogens. Effective management should rely on cost-effective, legislative, and environmentally sustainable approaches. We gathered information from various sources on surveillance, phenology, mosquito nuisance, vector-borne diseases and control measures in the main rice paddies of the five major rice-producing regions in Europe: Italy, Spain, Greece, Portugal, and France. Mosquito problems in rice paddies are prevalent across most analyzed regions, with entomological and virological surveillance efforts varying in intensity and timing. Aedes caspius mosquitoes significantly contribute to nuisance levels, while recent West Nile virus (WNV) circulation poses the most serious threat, as these habitats support high densities of mosquito vectors such as Culex pipiens, Culex modestus, and Culex perexiguus. Different mosquito control strategies are applied, ranging from centralized programs to localized interventions funded by public entities and implemented by public or private companies. Biological larviciding with Bacillus thuringiensis serovar. israelensis is the primary method used, supplemented by adulticiding during epidemic outbreaks in nearby urban areas. These management approaches reflect diverse regional contexts and highlight the importance of adaptive strategies in addressing mosquito-related challenges across rice paddies in Europe.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mikel A González
- Estación Biológica de Doñana, CSIC. Avda, Américo Vespucio s/n, 41092, Sevilla, Spain; CIBER de Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), 28029, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Alexandra Chaskopoulou
- European Biological Control Laboratory, United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service (USDA-ARS), Marinou Antipa 54 street, 57001, Thessaloniki, Greece.
| | - Loukas Georgiou
- General Directorate of Public Health, Region of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace, Hellenic Republic, Ypsilantou and Simeonidi street, 69132, Komotini, Greece.
| | - Eva Frontera
- Parasitología, Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Extremadura, Avda. Universidad s/n, Cáceres, Spain.
| | - Francisco Cáceres
- Servicio de Control de Plagas, Diputación Provincial de Huelva, Edificio Los Álamos, 21007, Huelva, Spain.
| | - Montse Masia
- Consorci de Polítiques Ambientals de les Terres de l'Ebre (COPATE), Avinguda de la Pau s/n, 101B, 43580, Deltebre, Spain.
| | - Raquel Gutiérrez-Climente
- Entente interdépartementale pour la démoustication du littoral méditerranéen (EID Méditerranée), 165 Avenue Paul-Rimbaud, 34184, Montpellier, France.
| | - Gregory L' Ambert
- Entente interdépartementale pour la démoustication du littoral méditerranéen (EID Méditerranée), 165 Avenue Paul-Rimbaud, 34184, Montpellier, France.
| | - Hugo Osório
- National Institute of Health, Department of Infectious Diseases, Centre for Vectors and Infectious Diseases, Av. da Liberdade 5, 2965-575, Águas de Moura, Portugal.
| | - Gonçalo Seixas
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine, GHTM, Associate Laboratory in Translation and Innovation Towards Global Health, LA-REAL, Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, IHMT/UNL, R. da Junqueira 100, 1349-008, Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Francesco Defilippo
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e Emilia-Romagna "B. Ubertini", Via Antonio Bianchi 7/9, 25124, Brescia, Italy.
| | - Mattia Calzolari
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e Emilia-Romagna "B. Ubertini", Via Antonio Bianchi 7/9, 25124, Brescia, Italy.
| | - Fabrizio Montarsi
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Viale dell'Università 10, 35020, Legnaro, Italy.
| | - Andrea Mosca
- Istituto per le Piante da Legno e l'Ambiente, Medical Entomology Laboratory, Corso Casale 476, 10132, Torino, Italy.
| | - Jordi Figuerola
- Estación Biológica de Doñana, CSIC. Avda, Américo Vespucio s/n, 41092, Sevilla, Spain; CIBER de Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), 28029, Madrid, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
|
9
|
Bogdanic M, Savic V, Klobucar A, Barbic L, Sabadi D, Tomljenovic M, Madic J, Hruskar Z, Curman Posavec M, Santini M, Stevanovic V, Petrinic S, Antolasic L, Milasincic L, Al-Mufleh M, Roncevic D, Vilibic-Cavlek T. The Re-Emergence of Neuroinvasive Flaviviruses in Croatia During the 2022 Transmission Season. Microorganisms 2024; 12:2210. [PMID: 39597599 PMCID: PMC11596621 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms12112210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2024] [Revised: 10/26/2024] [Accepted: 10/30/2024] [Indexed: 11/29/2024] Open
Abstract
(Re-)emerging arboviruses, such as tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV), West Nile virus (WNV), and Usutu virus (USUV), are continuously increasing in incidence. We analyzed the epidemiological characteristics of flavivirus infections in humans, sentinel animals, and mosquitoes detected in the 2022 transmission season in Croatia. From April to November 2022, 110 hospitalized patients with neuroinvasive diseases (NID) were tested for the presence of arboviruses. RT-qPCR was used to detect TBEV, WNV, and USUV RNA. An ELISA and virus neutralization tests were used for the detection of flavivirus antibodies. TBEV infection was confirmed in 22 patients with NID. WNV NID was detected in six patients. TBE showed male predominance (81.8%; male-to-female ratio of 4.5:1). All but one WNV patients were males. TBE occurred from April to August, with the majority of patients (83.3%) being detected during the May-June-July period. WNV infections were recorded in August and September. In addition to human cases, asymptomatic WNV infections (IgM positive) were reported in 10 horses. For the first time in Croatia, WNV NID was observed in one horse that presented with neurological symptoms. Furthermore, USUV was confirmed in one dead blackbird that presented with neurological symptoms. A total of 1984 mosquitoes were collected in the City of Zagreb. Two Ae. albopictus pools tested positive for flavivirus RNA: one collected in July (USUV) and the other collected in August (WNV). A phylogenetic analysis of detected human and avian strains confirmed WNV lineage 2 and the USUV Europe 2 lineage. The presented results confirm the endemic presence of neuroinvasive flaviviruses in continental Croatia. The continuous monitoring of virus circulation in humans, sentinel animals, and mosquitoes is needed to reduce the disease burden.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maja Bogdanic
- Department of Virology, Croatian Institute of Public Health, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (M.B.); (Z.H.); (L.A.); (L.M.)
- School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| | - Vladimir Savic
- Poultry Center, Croatian Veterinary Institute, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| | - Ana Klobucar
- Department of Epidemiology, Andrija Stampar Teaching Institute of Public Health, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (A.K.); (M.C.P.); (S.P.)
| | - Ljubo Barbic
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases with Clinic, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (L.B.); (J.M.); (V.S.)
| | - Dario Sabadi
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Clinical Hospital Center Osijek, 31000 Osijek, Croatia;
- Medical Faculty, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
| | - Morana Tomljenovic
- Department of Epidemiology, Primorje-Gorski Kotar Teaching Institute of Public Health, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia; (M.T.); (D.R.)
- Department of Social Medicine and Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Josip Madic
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases with Clinic, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (L.B.); (J.M.); (V.S.)
| | - Zeljka Hruskar
- Department of Virology, Croatian Institute of Public Health, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (M.B.); (Z.H.); (L.A.); (L.M.)
| | - Marcela Curman Posavec
- Department of Epidemiology, Andrija Stampar Teaching Institute of Public Health, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (A.K.); (M.C.P.); (S.P.)
| | - Marija Santini
- School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
- Department for Infections in Immunocompromised Patients, University Hospital for Infectious Diseases “Dr. Fran Mihaljevic”, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Vladimir Stevanovic
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases with Clinic, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (L.B.); (J.M.); (V.S.)
| | - Suncica Petrinic
- Department of Epidemiology, Andrija Stampar Teaching Institute of Public Health, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (A.K.); (M.C.P.); (S.P.)
| | - Ljiljana Antolasic
- Department of Virology, Croatian Institute of Public Health, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (M.B.); (Z.H.); (L.A.); (L.M.)
| | - Ljiljana Milasincic
- Department of Virology, Croatian Institute of Public Health, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (M.B.); (Z.H.); (L.A.); (L.M.)
| | - Mahmoud Al-Mufleh
- Department of Infectious Diseases, County Hospital Cakovec, 40000 Cakovec, Croatia;
| | - Dobrica Roncevic
- Department of Epidemiology, Primorje-Gorski Kotar Teaching Institute of Public Health, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia; (M.T.); (D.R.)
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health Studies, University of Rijeka, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Tatjana Vilibic-Cavlek
- Department of Virology, Croatian Institute of Public Health, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (M.B.); (Z.H.); (L.A.); (L.M.)
- School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| |
Collapse
|
|
10
|
Chen J, Zhang Y, Zhang X, Zhang M, Yin X, Zhang L, Peng C, Fu B, Fang L, Liu W. Epidemiology and Ecology of Usutu Virus Infection and Its Global Risk Distribution. Viruses 2024; 16:1606. [PMID: 39459938 PMCID: PMC11512428 DOI: 10.3390/v16101606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2024] [Revised: 10/05/2024] [Accepted: 10/09/2024] [Indexed: 10/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Usutu virus (USUV) is an emerging mosquito-transmitted flavivirus with increasing incidence of human infection and geographic expansion, thus posing a potential threat to public health. In this study, we established a comprehensive spatiotemporal database encompassing USUV infections in vectors, animals, and humans worldwide by an extensive literature search. Based on this database, we characterized the geographic distribution and epidemiological features of USUV infections. By employing boosted regression tree (BRT) models, we projected the distributions of three main vectors (Culex pipiens, Aedes albopictus, and Culiseta longiareolata) and three main hosts (Turdus merula, Passer domesticus, and Ardea cinerea) to obtain the mosquito index and bird index. These indices were further incorporated as predictors into the USUV infection models. Through an ensemble learning model, we achieved a decent model performance, with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.992. The mosquito index contributed significantly, with relative contributions estimated at 25.51%. Our estimations revealed a potential exposure area for USUV spanning 1.80 million km2 globally with approximately 1.04 billion people at risk. This can guide future surveillance efforts for USUV infections, especially for countries located within high-risk areas and those that have not yet conducted surveillance activities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiahao Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Academy of Military Medical Science, 20 Dong-Da Street, Fengtai District, Beijing 100071, China; (J.C.); (X.Z.); (M.Z.); (X.Y.); (L.Z.); (C.P.)
| | - Yuanyuan Zhang
- Department of Disease Control and Prevention, No. 926 Hospital of Joint Logistics Support Force, Kaiyuan 661600, China;
| | - Xiaoai Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Academy of Military Medical Science, 20 Dong-Da Street, Fengtai District, Beijing 100071, China; (J.C.); (X.Z.); (M.Z.); (X.Y.); (L.Z.); (C.P.)
| | - Meiqi Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Academy of Military Medical Science, 20 Dong-Da Street, Fengtai District, Beijing 100071, China; (J.C.); (X.Z.); (M.Z.); (X.Y.); (L.Z.); (C.P.)
| | - Xiaohong Yin
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Academy of Military Medical Science, 20 Dong-Da Street, Fengtai District, Beijing 100071, China; (J.C.); (X.Z.); (M.Z.); (X.Y.); (L.Z.); (C.P.)
| | - Lei Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Academy of Military Medical Science, 20 Dong-Da Street, Fengtai District, Beijing 100071, China; (J.C.); (X.Z.); (M.Z.); (X.Y.); (L.Z.); (C.P.)
| | - Cong Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Academy of Military Medical Science, 20 Dong-Da Street, Fengtai District, Beijing 100071, China; (J.C.); (X.Z.); (M.Z.); (X.Y.); (L.Z.); (C.P.)
| | - Bokang Fu
- School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230022, China;
| | - Liqun Fang
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Academy of Military Medical Science, 20 Dong-Da Street, Fengtai District, Beijing 100071, China; (J.C.); (X.Z.); (M.Z.); (X.Y.); (L.Z.); (C.P.)
| | - Wei Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Academy of Military Medical Science, 20 Dong-Da Street, Fengtai District, Beijing 100071, China; (J.C.); (X.Z.); (M.Z.); (X.Y.); (L.Z.); (C.P.)
| |
Collapse
|
|
11
|
Panagopoulou A, Tegos N, Beleri S, Mpimpa A, Balatsos G, Michaelakis A, Hadjichristodoulou C, Patsoula E. Molecular detection of Usutu virus in pools of Culex pipiens mosquitoes in Greece. Acta Trop 2024; 258:107330. [PMID: 39043331 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2024.107330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2024] [Revised: 07/18/2024] [Accepted: 07/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024]
Abstract
Usutu virus (USUV) is a mosquito-borne flavivirus originating from Africa, that belongs to the Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) complex. In nature, USUV involves Culex spp. mosquitoes acting as vectors and birds as amplifying hosts. The virus has recently spread in Europe and is considered an emerging human pathogen. This is the first research study performed in Greece revealing the presence and circulation of USUV in Culex spp. mosquito populations. Out of the 1,500 mosquito pools tested with real-time RT-PCR, four (Roesch et al., 2019) were positive for USUV. All four pools were collected from the region of Central Macedonia, Northern Greece.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anastasia Panagopoulou
- Unit of Medical Entomology, Laboratory for the Surveillance of Infectious Diseases (LSID), Division of Infectious, Parasitic Diseases and Zoonoses, Department of Public Health Policy, School of Public Health, University of West Attica, 11521, Athens, Greece; MSc Course in Public Health (Specialty: Infectious Diseases-Public Health Laboratories), Department of Public Health Policy, School of Public Health, University of West Attica, 115 21 Athens, Greece
| | - Nikolaos Tegos
- Unit of Medical Entomology, Laboratory for the Surveillance of Infectious Diseases (LSID), Division of Infectious, Parasitic Diseases and Zoonoses, Department of Public Health Policy, School of Public Health, University of West Attica, 11521, Athens, Greece
| | - Stavroula Beleri
- Unit of Medical Entomology, Laboratory for the Surveillance of Infectious Diseases (LSID), Division of Infectious, Parasitic Diseases and Zoonoses, Department of Public Health Policy, School of Public Health, University of West Attica, 11521, Athens, Greece
| | - Anastasia Mpimpa
- Unit of Medical Entomology, Laboratory for the Surveillance of Infectious Diseases (LSID), Division of Infectious, Parasitic Diseases and Zoonoses, Department of Public Health Policy, School of Public Health, University of West Attica, 11521, Athens, Greece
| | - Georgios Balatsos
- Laboratory of Insects and Parasites of Medical Importance, Scientific Directorate of Entomology and Agricultural Zoology, Benaki Phytopathological Institute, 14561 Kifissia, Greece
| | - Antonios Michaelakis
- Laboratory of Insects and Parasites of Medical Importance, Scientific Directorate of Entomology and Agricultural Zoology, Benaki Phytopathological Institute, 14561 Kifissia, Greece
| | | | - Eleni Patsoula
- Unit of Medical Entomology, Laboratory for the Surveillance of Infectious Diseases (LSID), Division of Infectious, Parasitic Diseases and Zoonoses, Department of Public Health Policy, School of Public Health, University of West Attica, 11521, Athens, Greece.
| |
Collapse
|
|
12
|
Loureiro F, Cardoso L, Matos AC, Pintado C, Silva F, Ferreira M, Brandão R, Lopes C, Lopes AP, Mesquita JR, Matos M, Coelho AC. Serological evidence of antibodies to Flaviviridae in wild birds in Portugal. ANIMAL DISEASES 2024; 4:35. [DOI: 10.1186/s44149-024-00136-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2024] [Accepted: 08/26/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2025] Open
Abstract
AbstractEmerging infectious diseases are a major threat to biodiversity and an important public health issue. Flaviviruses are the cause of several emerging vector-borne zoonotic arboviruses whose distribution is currently increasing in Europe. The evidence that West Nile virus (WNV) circulates in resident and migratory species has implications for both animal and public health and should therefore be studied in depth. USUTU (USUV), Bagaza (BAGV) and tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) are other viruses that are beginning to spread more widely. An integrated surveillance program, namely in birds, is essential for reducing the risk of infection in human populations within the One Health principles. In the present study, wild birds admitted to wildlife rehabilitation centers in Portugal were sampled. Two hundred eight blood samples were assayed serologically for antibodies to flaviviruses by using a commercial ELISA kit. An overall seroprevalence of 19.6% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 13.7–26.7%) was observed. Antibodies against flaviviruses were detected in 13 (35.1%) different species of wild birds. Accipitriformes (26.7%; 95% CI: 18.5–36.2%) and Strigiformes (26.7%; 95% CI: 14.6–42.0%) were the orders with the highest seroprevalence rates recorded. There were no statistically significant differences (p = 0.725) between the geographical regions (NUTS II) studied, but a statistically significant difference (p = 0.017) was found between sex (male: 34.4%; female: 4.8%). A higher seroprevalence was detected in adults (32.1%) than in juvenile birds (9.3%) (p = 0.014), and age was considered a risk factor for flavivirus infection in wild birds (odds ratio 1.4; 95% CI: 0.5–4.0). More epidemiological studies are needed in Portugal since the actual spread of the genus Flavivirus throughout the country is unknown.
Collapse
|
|
13
|
Marshall EM, Bauer L, Nelemans T, Sooksawasdi Na Ayudhya S, Benavides F, Lanko K, de Vrij FMS, Kushner SA, Koopmans M, van Riel D, Rockx B. Differential susceptibility of human motor neurons to infection with Usutu and West Nile virus. J Neuroinflammation 2024; 21:236. [PMID: 39334427 PMCID: PMC11437828 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-024-03228-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2024] [Accepted: 09/09/2024] [Indexed: 09/30/2024] Open
Abstract
West Nile virus (WNV) and Usutu virus (USUV) are closely related flaviviruses with differing capacities to cause neurological disease in humans. WNV is thought to use a transneural route of neuroinvasion along motor neurons and causes severe motor deficits. The potential for use of transneural routes of neuroinvasion by USUV has not been investigated experimentally, and evidence from the few clinical case reports of USUV-associated neuroinvasive disease is lacking. We hypothesised that, compared with WNV, USUV is less able to infect motor neurons, and therefore determined the susceptibility of human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived spinal cord motor neurons to infection. Both viruses could grow to high titres in iPSC-derived neural cultures. However, USUV could not productively infect motor neurons due to restriction by the antiviral response, which was not induced upon WNV infection. Inhibition of the antiviral response allowed for widespread infection and transportation of USUV along motor neurons within a compartmented culture system. These results show a stark difference in the ability of these two viruses to evade initiation of intrinsic antiviral immunity. Our data suggests that USUV cannot infect motor neurons in healthy individuals but in case of immunodeficiency may pose a risk for motor-related neurological disease and transneural invasion.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eleanor M Marshall
- Department of Viroscience, Erasmus Medical Center, Dr. Molewaterplein 40, Rotterdam, 3015 GD, The Netherlands
| | - Lisa Bauer
- Department of Viroscience, Erasmus Medical Center, Dr. Molewaterplein 40, Rotterdam, 3015 GD, The Netherlands
| | - Tessa Nelemans
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Syriam Sooksawasdi Na Ayudhya
- Department of Viroscience, Erasmus Medical Center, Dr. Molewaterplein 40, Rotterdam, 3015 GD, The Netherlands
- Faculty of Veterinary Science, Prince of Songkla University, Songkhla, Thailand
| | - Feline Benavides
- Department of Viroscience, Erasmus Medical Center, Dr. Molewaterplein 40, Rotterdam, 3015 GD, The Netherlands
| | - Kristina Lanko
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Femke M S de Vrij
- Department of Psychiatry, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Steven A Kushner
- Department of Psychiatry, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Marion Koopmans
- Department of Viroscience, Erasmus Medical Center, Dr. Molewaterplein 40, Rotterdam, 3015 GD, The Netherlands
| | - Debby van Riel
- Department of Viroscience, Erasmus Medical Center, Dr. Molewaterplein 40, Rotterdam, 3015 GD, The Netherlands
| | - Barry Rockx
- Department of Viroscience, Erasmus Medical Center, Dr. Molewaterplein 40, Rotterdam, 3015 GD, The Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
|
14
|
Nelemans T, Tas A, Kikkert M, van Hemert MJ. Usutu virus NS4A suppresses the host interferon response by disrupting MAVS signaling. Virus Res 2024; 347:199431. [PMID: 38969013 PMCID: PMC11292556 DOI: 10.1016/j.virusres.2024.199431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2024] [Revised: 06/15/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/07/2024]
Abstract
Usutu virus (USUV) is an emerging flavivirus that can infect birds and mammals. In humans, in severe cases, it may cause neuroinvasive disease. The innate immune system, and in particular the interferon response, functions as the important first line of defense against invading pathogens such as USUV. Many, if not all, viruses have developed mechanisms to suppress and/or evade the interferon response in order to facilitate their replication. The ability of USUV to antagonize the interferon response has so far remained largely unexplored. Using dual-luciferase reporter assays we observed that multiple of the USUV nonstructural (NS) proteins were involved in suppressing IFN-β production and signaling. In particular NS4A was very effective at suppressing IFN-β production. We found that NS4A interacted with the mitochondrial antiviral signaling protein (MAVS) and thereby blocked its interaction with melanoma differentiation-associated protein 5 (MDA5), resulting in reduced IFN-β production. The TM1 domain of NS4A was found to be essential for binding to MAVS. By screening a panel of flavivirus NS4A proteins we found that the interaction of NS4A with MAVS is conserved among flaviviruses. The increased understanding of the role of NS4A in flavivirus immune evasion could aid the development of vaccines and therapeutic strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tessa Nelemans
- Molecular Virology Laboratory, Leiden University Center for Infectious Diseases (LUCID), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Ali Tas
- Molecular Virology Laboratory, Leiden University Center for Infectious Diseases (LUCID), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Marjolein Kikkert
- Molecular Virology Laboratory, Leiden University Center for Infectious Diseases (LUCID), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands.
| | - Martijn J van Hemert
- Molecular Virology Laboratory, Leiden University Center for Infectious Diseases (LUCID), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
|
15
|
Ceconi M, Ariën KK, Delputte P. Diagnosing arthropod-borne flaviviruses: non-structural protein 1 (NS1) as a biomarker. Trends Microbiol 2024; 32:678-696. [PMID: 38135616 DOI: 10.1016/j.tim.2023.11.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
In recent decades, the presence of flaviviruses of concern for human health in Europe has drastically increased,exacerbated by the effects of climate change - which has allowed the vectors of these viruses to expand into new territories. Co-circulation of West Nile virus (WNV), Usutu virus (USUV), and tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) represents a threat to the European continent, and this is further complicated by the difficulty of obtaining an early and discriminating diagnosis of infection. Moreover, the possibility of introducing non-endemic pathogens, such as Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV), further complicates accurate diagnosis. Current flavivirus diagnosis is based mainly on RT-PCR and detection of virus-specific antibodies. Yet, both techniques suffer from limitations, and the development of new assays that can provide an early, rapid, low-cost, and discriminating diagnosis of viral infection is warranted. In the pursuit of ideal diagnostic assays, flavivirus non-structural protein 1 (NS1) serves as an excellent target for developing diagnostic assays based on both the antigen itself and the antibodies produced against it. This review describes the potential of such NS1-based diagnostic methods, focusing on the application of flaviviruses that co-circulate in Europe.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Martina Ceconi
- Laboratory for Microbiology, Parasitology and Hygiene, Infla-Med Centre of Excellence, University of Antwerp, Antwerp 2610, Belgium
| | - Kevin K Ariën
- Virology Unit, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp 2000, Belgium; Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp 2610, Belgium
| | - Peter Delputte
- Laboratory for Microbiology, Parasitology and Hygiene, Infla-Med Centre of Excellence, University of Antwerp, Antwerp 2610, Belgium.
| |
Collapse
|
|
16
|
Goiri F, González MA, Cevidanes A, Barandika JF, García-Peréz AL. Mosquitoes in urban green spaces and cemeteries in northern Spain. Parasit Vectors 2024; 17:168. [PMID: 38566167 PMCID: PMC10986117 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-024-06263-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mosquitoes inhabiting urban green spaces and cemeteries in Europe represent a crucial facet of public health concern and contribute to the ecological balance. As urbanization intensifies, these areas increasingly serve as vital habitats for various mosquito species, fostering breeding grounds and increasing the risk of disease transmission. METHODS A study was conducted in the three main cities (inland, coastal, and estuarine) of the Basque Country, northern Spain, to investigate the species composition, abundance, dynamic populations, larval habitats, and host preferences of mosquitoes in urban green spaces and cemeteries. CDC traps and dipping were used to collect mosquitoes for 2 years (2019-2020). RESULTS A total of 21 mosquito species were identified, with Culex pipiens s.l. being the most abundant and widespread. The three ecological forms of Cx. pipiens were found, and Cx. pipiens pipiens was the most common in both green areas and cemeteries. Morphological identification together with molecular tools identified 65 COI sequences with high homology. The highest species richness was found in the inland city, followed by the coastal city and the estuarine city. Mosquito abundance was significantly higher in green areas compared to cemeteries and in the coastal and estuarine cities compared to the inland city. The investigation of larval breeding sites highlighted the dominance of Cx. pipiens s.l., particularly in semi-artificial ponds, diverse water-holding containers (tyres and buckets) and drainage systems in green areas; in cemeteries, most of the larvae were found in flowerpots and funerary urns. Seasonal activity exhibited variable peaks in mosquito abundance in the different cities, with a notable increase in July or August. Additionally, blood meal analysis revealed that Cx. pipiens s.l. fed on several common urban avian species. CONCLUSIONS Studies on mosquitoes are essential to understand their role in disease transmission and to design targeted and sustainable management strategies to mitigate the associated risks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fátima Goiri
- Animal Health Department, NEIKER-Basque Institute for Agricultural Research and Development, Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Derio, Spain
| | - Mikel A González
- Animal Health Department, NEIKER-Basque Institute for Agricultural Research and Development, Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Derio, Spain
- Doñana Biological Station, Spanish National Research Council (EBD-CSIC), Seville, Spain
- CIBER de Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBER ESP), Madrid, Spain
| | - Aitor Cevidanes
- Animal Health Department, NEIKER-Basque Institute for Agricultural Research and Development, Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Derio, Spain
| | - Jesús F Barandika
- Animal Health Department, NEIKER-Basque Institute for Agricultural Research and Development, Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Derio, Spain
| | - Ana L García-Peréz
- Animal Health Department, NEIKER-Basque Institute for Agricultural Research and Development, Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Derio, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
|
17
|
Emmerich P, Jakupi X, Sherifi K, Dreshaj S, Kalaveshi A, Hemmer C, Hajdari DP, von Possel R, Cadar D, Tomazatos A. Serologic and Genomic Investigation of West Nile Virus in Kosovo. Viruses 2023; 16:66. [PMID: 38257766 PMCID: PMC10818488 DOI: 10.3390/v16010066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The prevalence of West Nile virus (WNV) is increasing across Europe, with cases emerging in previously unaffected countries. Kosovo is situated in a WNV-endemic region where the seroepidemiological data on WNV in humans remains absent. To address this issue, we have conducted a seroepidemiological investigation of 453 randomly selected sera from a hospital in Kosovo, revealing a 1.55% anti-WNV IgG seroprevalence. Comparative and phylogeographic analyses of the WNV genomes obtained by sequencing archived samples from patients with West Nile fever indicate at least two recent and distinct introductions of WNV lineage 2 into Kosovo from neighboring countries. These findings confirm the eco-epidemiological status of WNV in southeast Europe, where long- and short-range dispersion of lineage 2 strains contributes to a wider circulation via central Europe. Our results suggest an increasing risk for WNV spreading in Kosovo, underscoring the need for an integrated national surveillance program targeting vectors and avian populations for early epidemic detection, as well as the screening of blood donors to gauge the impact of virus circulation on the human population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Petra Emmerich
- Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, WHO Collaborating Centre for Arbovirus and Hemorrhagic Fever Reference and Research, 20359 Hamburg, Germany; (P.E.); (R.v.P.)
- Department of Tropical Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Center of Internal Medicine II, University of Rostock, 18057 Rostock, Germany;
| | - Xhevat Jakupi
- National Institute of Public Health of Kosovo, 10000 Pristina, Kosovo; (X.J.); (A.K.); (D.P.H.)
| | - Kurtesh Sherifi
- Faculty of Agriculture and Veterinary, University of Prishtina “Hasan Prishtina”, 10000 Prishtina, Kosovo;
| | - Shemsedin Dreshaj
- University Clinic of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, University of Pristina, 10000 Pristina, Kosovo;
| | - Ariana Kalaveshi
- National Institute of Public Health of Kosovo, 10000 Pristina, Kosovo; (X.J.); (A.K.); (D.P.H.)
| | - Christoph Hemmer
- Department of Tropical Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Center of Internal Medicine II, University of Rostock, 18057 Rostock, Germany;
| | - Donjeta Pllana Hajdari
- National Institute of Public Health of Kosovo, 10000 Pristina, Kosovo; (X.J.); (A.K.); (D.P.H.)
| | - Ronald von Possel
- Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, WHO Collaborating Centre for Arbovirus and Hemorrhagic Fever Reference and Research, 20359 Hamburg, Germany; (P.E.); (R.v.P.)
- Department of Tropical Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Center of Internal Medicine II, University of Rostock, 18057 Rostock, Germany;
| | - Dániel Cadar
- Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, WHO Collaborating Centre for Arbovirus and Hemorrhagic Fever Reference and Research, 20359 Hamburg, Germany; (P.E.); (R.v.P.)
| | - Alexandru Tomazatos
- Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, WHO Collaborating Centre for Arbovirus and Hemorrhagic Fever Reference and Research, 20359 Hamburg, Germany; (P.E.); (R.v.P.)
| |
Collapse
|