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Alshehri AA, Irekeola AA. Global prevalence of alkhumra hemorrhagic fever virus infection: The first meta-analysis and systematic review. J Infect Public Health 2024; 17:986-993. [PMID: 38631068 DOI: 10.1016/j.jiph.2024.04.001] [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: 02/20/2024] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Alkhumra hemorrhagic fever virus (AHFV) has spread beyond the Middle East. However, the actual global prevalence of the virus is yet unknown. This systematic review and meta-analysis, thus, followed the standard reporting guidelines to provide comprehensive details on the prevalence of Alkhumra virus infection globally. The pooled prevalence of AHFV globally was estimated at 1.3% (95% CI: 0.3-6.3), with higher prevalence in humans (3.4%, 95% CI: 0.4-25.0) compared to animals (0.7%, 95% CI: 0.3-1.8). The prevalence in ticks and camels were 0.7% and 0.2%, respectively. Overall, there was a high prevalence rate in Asia (2.6%) compared to Africa (0.5%), and a distinctly higher prevalence in Saudi Arabia (4.6%) compared to other parts of the world (<1%). Lower surveillance rate in humans was observed in recent years. These findings will aid public health preparedness, surveillance, and development of preventive measures due to AHFV's potential for outbreaks and severe health consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad A Alshehri
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Najran University, P.O. Box 1988, Najran, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Ahmad Adebayo Irekeola
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Health Campus, Kubang Kerian, Kelantan 16150, Malaysia; Microbiology Unit, Department of Biological Sciences, College of Natural and Applied Sciences, Summit University Offa, Offa PMB 4412, Kwara, Nigeria.
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2
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Lilak AA, Pecor DB, Matulis G, Potter AM, Wofford RN, Kearney MF, Mitchell S, Jaradat F, Kano A, Zimmerman DM, Hassell JM, Kumsa B, Kamau M, Linton YM, von Fricken ME. Data release: targeted systematic literature search for tick and tick-borne pathogen distributions in six countries in sub-Saharan Africa from 1901 to 2020. Parasit Vectors 2024; 17:84. [PMID: 38389097 PMCID: PMC10885379 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-06086-4] [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: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Surveillance data documenting tick and tick-borne disease (TBD) prevalence is needed to develop risk assessments and implement control strategies. Despite extensive research in Africa, there is no standardized, comprehensive review. METHODS Here we tackle this knowledge gap, by producing a comprehensive review of research articles on ticks and TBD between 1901 and 2020 in Chad, Djibouti, Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. Over 8356 English language articles were recovered. Our search strategy included 19 related MeSH terms. Articles were reviewed, and 331 met inclusion criteria. Articles containing mappable data were compiled into a standardized data schema, georeferenced, and uploaded to VectorMap. RESULTS Tick and pathogen matrixes were created, providing information on vector distributions and tick-pathogen associations within the six selected African countries. CONCLUSIONS These results provide a digital, mappable database of current and historical tick and TBD distributions across six countries in Africa, which can inform specific risk modeling, determine surveillance gaps, and guide future surveillance priorities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abigail A Lilak
- One Health Center of Excellence, Emerging Pathogens Institute, University of Florida, 2055 Mowry Road, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
- Department of Environmental & Global Health, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - David B Pecor
- Walter Reed Biosystematics Unit (WRBU), Smithsonian Museum Support Center, Suitland, MD, USA
- Department of Entomology, Smithsonian Institution-National Museum of Natural History, Washington, DC, USA
- One Health Branch, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research (WRAIR), Silver Spring, Maryland, USA
| | - Graham Matulis
- One Health Center of Excellence, Emerging Pathogens Institute, University of Florida, 2055 Mowry Road, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
- Department of Environmental & Global Health, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Alexander M Potter
- Walter Reed Biosystematics Unit (WRBU), Smithsonian Museum Support Center, Suitland, MD, USA
- Department of Entomology, Smithsonian Institution-National Museum of Natural History, Washington, DC, USA
- One Health Branch, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research (WRAIR), Silver Spring, Maryland, USA
| | | | | | - Stephanie Mitchell
- Walter Reed Biosystematics Unit (WRBU), Smithsonian Museum Support Center, Suitland, MD, USA
| | | | - Arisa Kano
- George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, USA
| | - Dawn M Zimmerman
- Department of Entomology, Smithsonian Institution-National Museum of Natural History, Washington, DC, USA
- Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - James M Hassell
- Department of Entomology, Smithsonian Institution-National Museum of Natural History, Washington, DC, USA
- Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Bersissa Kumsa
- Department of Pathology & Parasitology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Agriculture, Addis Ababa University, Bishoftu, Ethiopia
| | - Maureen Kamau
- Walter Reed Biosystematics Unit (WRBU), Smithsonian Museum Support Center, Suitland, MD, USA
- Mpala Research Center, Nanyuki, Kenya
| | - Yvonne-Marie Linton
- Walter Reed Biosystematics Unit (WRBU), Smithsonian Museum Support Center, Suitland, MD, USA
- Department of Entomology, Smithsonian Institution-National Museum of Natural History, Washington, DC, USA
- One Health Branch, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research (WRAIR), Silver Spring, Maryland, USA
| | - Michael E von Fricken
- One Health Center of Excellence, Emerging Pathogens Institute, University of Florida, 2055 Mowry Road, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA.
- Department of Environmental & Global Health, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.
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3
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Hoffman T, Olsen B, Lundkvist Å. The Biological and Ecological Features of Northbound Migratory Birds, Ticks, and Tick-Borne Microorganisms in the African-Western Palearctic. Microorganisms 2023; 11:microorganisms11010158. [PMID: 36677450 PMCID: PMC9866947 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11010158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Identifying the species that act as hosts, vectors, and vehicles of vector-borne pathogens is vital for revealing the transmission cycles, dispersal mechanisms, and establishment of vector-borne pathogens in nature. Ticks are common vectors for pathogens causing human and animal diseases, and they transmit a greater variety of pathogenic agents than any other arthropod vector group. Ticks depend on the movements by their vertebrate hosts for their dispersal, and tick species with long feeding periods are more likely to be transported over long distances. Wild birds are commonly parasitized by ticks, and their migration patterns enable the long-distance range expansion of ticks. The African-Palearctic migration system is one of the world's largest migrations systems. African-Western Palearctic birds create natural links between the African, European, and Asian continents when they migrate biannually between breeding grounds in the Palearctic and wintering grounds in Africa and thereby connect different biomes. Climate is an important geographical determinant of ticks, and with global warming, the distribution range and abundance of ticks in the Western Palearctic may increase. The introduction of exotic ticks and their microorganisms into the Western Palearctic via avian vehicles might therefore pose a greater risk for the public and animal health in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tove Hoffman
- Zoonosis Science Center, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Uppsala University, 751 23 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Björn Olsen
- Zoonosis Science Center, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Uppsala University, 751 23 Uppsala, Sweden
- Zoonosis Science Center, Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, 751 85 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Åke Lundkvist
- Zoonosis Science Center, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Uppsala University, 751 23 Uppsala, Sweden
- Correspondence:
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4
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Abdulhaq AA, Hershan AA, Karunamoorthi K, Al-Mekhlafi HM. Human Alkhumra hemorrhagic Fever: Emergence, history and epidemiological and clinical profiles. Saudi J Biol Sci 2022; 29:1900-1910. [PMID: 35280532 PMCID: PMC8913346 DOI: 10.1016/j.sjbs.2021.10.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2021] [Revised: 10/03/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Alkhumra hemorrhagic fever (AHF) is a severe, often fatal hemorrhagic disease in humans. It is caused by Alkhumra hemorrhagic fever virus (AHFV), a newly described flavivirus first isolated in 1995 in Alkhumra district, south of Jeddah City, Saudi Arabia. It is transmitted from infected livestock animals to humans by direct contact with infected animals or by tick bites. In the recent past, the incidence of AHF has increased, with a total of 604 confirmed cases have been reported in Saudi Arabia between 1995 and 2020. Yet, no specific treatment or control strategies have been developed and implemented against this infection. Hence, the likelihood of increased prevalence or the occurrence of outbreaks is high, particularly in the absence of appropriate prevention and control strategies. This narrative review presents an overview of the current knowledge and future concerns about AHF globally.
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Key Words
- AHF, Alkhumra hemorrhagic fever
- AHFV, Alkhumra hemorrhagic fever virus
- Alkhumra hemorrhagic fever virus
- CCHFV, Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic fever virus
- CFV, chikungunya fever virus
- DENV, dengue fever virus
- Flaviviruses
- ICTV, International Committee on Taxonomy of Viruses
- Infectious diseases
- KFDV, Kyasanur Forest disease virus
- OHFV, Omsk hemorrhagic fever virus
- RVFV, Rift Valley fever virus
- Saudi Arabia
- YFV, yellow fever virus
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed A Abdulhaq
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Jazan University, Jazan, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.,Deanship of Scientific Research, Jazan University, Jazan, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.,Vector-Borne Diseases Research Group, Jazan University, Jazan, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Almonther A Hershan
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Jeddah, Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.,Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, University of Jeddah, Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Kaliyaperumal Karunamoorthi
- Vector-Borne Diseases Research Group, Jazan University, Jazan, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.,Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Jazan University, Jazan, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Hesham M Al-Mekhlafi
- Vector-Borne Diseases Research Group, Jazan University, Jazan, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.,Medical Research Center, Jazan University, Jazan, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.,Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Sana'a University, Sana'a, Yemen
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5
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Insights from experience in the treatment of tick-borne bacterial coinfections with tick-borne encephalitis. ANNUAL REPORTS IN MEDICINAL CHEMISTRY 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.armc.2022.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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6
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Tran NTB, Shimoda H, Mizuno J, Ishijima K, Yonemitsu K, Minami S, Kuroda Y, Tatemoto K, Mendoza MV, Takano A, Muto M, Isawa H, Sawabe K, Hayasaka D, Maeda K. Epidemiological study of Kabuto Mountain virus, a novel uukuvirus, in Japan. J Vet Med Sci 2021; 84:82-89. [PMID: 34819413 PMCID: PMC8810333 DOI: 10.1292/jvms.21-0577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Kabuto Mountain virus (KAMV), the new member of the genus Uukuvirus, was isolated from the tick Haemaphysalis flava in 2018 in Japan. To date, there is no
information on KAMV infection in human and animals. Therefore, serological surveillance of the infection among humans and wild mammals was conducted by virus-neutralization (VN) test and
indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA). Sera of 24 humans, 59 monkeys, 171 wild boars, 233 Sika deer, 7 bears, and 27 nutria in Yamaguchi Prefecture were analyzed by VN test. The positive
ratio of humans, monkeys, wild boars, and Sika deer were 20.8%, 3.4%, 33.9% and 4.7%, respectively. No positive samples were detected in bears and nutria. The correlation coefficients
between VN test and IFA in human, monkey, wild boar, and Sika deer sera were 0.5745, 0.7198, 0.9967 and 0.9525, respectively. In addition, KAMV was detected in one pool of
Haemaphysalis formosensis ticks in Wakayama Prefecture. These results indicated that KAMV or KAMV-like virus is circulating among many wildlife and ticks, and that this
virus incidentally infects humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ngo T B Tran
- Laboratory of Veterinary Microbiology, Joint Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Yamaguchi University
| | - Hiroshi Shimoda
- Laboratory of Veterinary Microbiology, Joint Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Yamaguchi University
| | - Junko Mizuno
- Laboratory of Veterinary Microbiology, Joint Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Yamaguchi University
| | - Keita Ishijima
- Department of Veterinary Science, National Institute of Infectious Diseases
| | - Kenzo Yonemitsu
- Laboratory of Veterinary Microbiology, Joint Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Yamaguchi University
| | - Shohei Minami
- Laboratory of Veterinary Microbiology, Joint Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Yamaguchi University
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- Laboratory of Veterinary Microbiology, Joint Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Yamaguchi University
| | - Yudai Kuroda
- Laboratory of Veterinary Microbiology, Joint Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Yamaguchi University.,Department of Veterinary Science, National Institute of Infectious Diseases
| | - Kango Tatemoto
- Laboratory of Veterinary Microbiology, Joint Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Yamaguchi University.,Department of Veterinary Science, National Institute of Infectious Diseases
| | - Milagros V Mendoza
- Laboratory of Veterinary Microbiology, Joint Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Yamaguchi University.,Department of Veterinary Science, National Institute of Infectious Diseases
| | - Ai Takano
- Laboratory of Veterinary Microbiology, Joint Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Yamaguchi University
| | | | - Haruhiko Isawa
- Department of Entomology, National Institute of Infectious Diseases
| | - Kyoko Sawabe
- Department of Entomology, National Institute of Infectious Diseases
| | - Daisuke Hayasaka
- Laboratory of Veterinary Microbiology, Joint Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Yamaguchi University
| | - Ken Maeda
- Laboratory of Veterinary Microbiology, Joint Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Yamaguchi University.,Department of Veterinary Science, National Institute of Infectious Diseases
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7
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Bhatia B, Haddock E, Shaia C, Rosenke R, Meade-White K, Griffin AJ, Marzi A, Feldmann H. Alkhurma haemorrhagic fever virus causes lethal disease in IFNAR -/- mice. Emerg Microbes Infect 2021; 10:1077-1087. [PMID: 34013842 PMCID: PMC8183530 DOI: 10.1080/22221751.2021.1932609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Alkhurma haemorrhagic fever virus (AHFV), a tick-borne flavivirus closely related to Kyasanur Forest disease virus, is the causative agent of a severe, sometimes fatal haemorrhagic/encephalitic disease in humans. To date, there are no specific treatments or vaccines available to combat AHFV infections. A challenge for the development of countermeasures is the absence of a reliable AHFV animal disease model for efficacy testing. Here, we used mice lacking the type I interferon (IFN) receptor (IFNAR-/-). AHFV strains Zaki-2 and 2003 both caused uniform lethality in these mice after intraperitoneal injection, but strain 2003 seemed more virulent with a median lethal dose of 0.4 median tissue culture infectious doses (TCID50). Disease manifestation in this animal model was similar to case reports of severe human AHFV infections with early generalized signs leading to haemorrhagic and neurologic complications. AHFV infection resulted in early high viremia followed by high viral loads (<108 TCID50/g tissue) in all analyzed organs. Despite systemic viral replication, virus-induced pathology was mainly found in the spleen, lymph nodes, liver and heart. This uniformly lethal AHFV disease model will be instrumental for pathogenesis studies and countermeasure development against this neglected zoonotic pathogen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bharti Bhatia
- Laboratory of Virology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rocky Mountain Laboratories, Hamilton, MT, USA
| | - Elaine Haddock
- Laboratory of Virology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rocky Mountain Laboratories, Hamilton, MT, USA
| | - Carl Shaia
- Rocky Mountain Veterinary Branch, Division of Intramural Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rocky Mountain Laboratories, Hamilton, MT, USA
| | - Rebecca Rosenke
- Rocky Mountain Veterinary Branch, Division of Intramural Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rocky Mountain Laboratories, Hamilton, MT, USA
| | - Kimberly Meade-White
- Laboratory of Virology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rocky Mountain Laboratories, Hamilton, MT, USA
| | - Amanda J Griffin
- Laboratory of Virology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rocky Mountain Laboratories, Hamilton, MT, USA
| | - Andrea Marzi
- Laboratory of Virology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rocky Mountain Laboratories, Hamilton, MT, USA
| | - Heinz Feldmann
- Laboratory of Virology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rocky Mountain Laboratories, Hamilton, MT, USA
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Abstract
OBJECTIVES This review article summarizes what has been published on Alkhumra hemorrhagic fever virus (AHFV), a novel flavivirus that was discovered in Saudi Arabia in 1995. METHODS PubMed was used to search for studies published from January 1995 to June 2019 using the key words Alkhumra virus, Alkhurma virus, novel flavivirus, and tick-borne encephalitis virus. Additionally, records of the Saudi Ministry of Health were reviewed. RESULTS Thirty-two articles on AHFV were identified. Acute febrile flu-like illness, hepatitis, hemorrhagic manifestations, and, less commonly, encephalitis are the main clinical features. The virus seems to be transmitted from livestock animals to humans by direct contact with these animals or their raw meat, or perhaps by tick or mosquito bites. The ability of ticks and mosquitoes to serve as vectors for AHFV needs to be confirmed by biological studies. The exact role of animals such as sheep, goats, camels, and other mammals in the transmission and maintenance of the virus remains to be elucidated. Preventive measures require an interdisciplinary approach involving the human and veterinary health sectors, the municipality, the ministry of agriculture, the vector control sector, and academic and research institutes. CONCLUSIONS AHFV has been well characterized; nevertheless, some aspects remain to be elucidated.
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Perveen N, Muzaffar SB, Al-Deeb MA. Ticks and Tick-Borne Diseases of Livestock in the Middle East and North Africa: A Review. INSECTS 2021; 12:83. [PMID: 33477991 PMCID: PMC7835866 DOI: 10.3390/insects12010083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2020] [Revised: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Ticks are important vectors of an array of viral, bacterial and protozoan pathogens resulting in a wide range of animal and human diseases. There is limited information in the literature about tick species in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) countries, even though they have suitable climate and vegetation for ticks and their hosts. We reviewed the occurrence of tick species and the pathogens they transmit from the MENA on published papers from 1901-2020. We found taxonomic records of 55 tick species infesting livestock representing the following eight genera: Ornithodoros, Otobius, Amblyomma, Dermacentor, Haemaphysalis, Hyalomma, Ixodes, and Rhipicephalus. In addition, 15 pathogens were recorded causing diseases of significance, with Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever, theileriosis, babesiosis and anaplasmosis being widely distributed diseases in the region. In recent decades, there has been increasing trends in disease occurrence and movement associated with global movement of humans and global trade of animals. We suggest that disease control and prevention could be achieved effectively through good integration between public health, veterinary medicine and animal management, and ecological approaches. We recommend further research in the areas of tick ecology and tick born-disease transmission. Furthermore, we suggest evaluation and improvement of disease control policies in the region.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Mohammad Ali Al-Deeb
- Department of Biology, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain 15551, UAE; (N.P.); (S.B.M.)
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10
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Seroprevalence of Toscana Virus and Sandfly Fever Sicilian Virus in European Bat Colonies Measured Using a Neutralization Test. Viruses 2021; 13:v13010088. [PMID: 33440618 PMCID: PMC7826795 DOI: 10.3390/v13010088] [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: 11/24/2020] [Revised: 01/06/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Toscana phlebovirus (TOSV) and Sicilian phlebovirus (SFSV) are endemic in the Mediterranean area where they are transmitted to humans by infected sandflies. Vertebrates of several species have been postulated to act as reservoirs of these viruses, but convincing evidence is still awaited. Among them, bats have been suggested, however documented evidence is lacking. Here we tested a total of 329 bats belonging to eight species collected from twelve localities in southern Spain for the presence of neutralizing antibodies specific to TOSV and SFSV. Positive sera were detected in Schreiber’s long-fingered bat (Miniopterus schreibersii), mouse-eared Myotis (Myotis myotis), European free-tailed bat (Tadarida teniotis), and common serotine (Eptesicus serotinus) with the latter showing the highest prevalence rates for SFSV (22.6%) and TOSV (10%). There was no difference between females and males. Results suggest that bats are not likely to play a major role in the natural cycle of these two sandfly-borne phleboviruses. However, large breeding colonies of bats can be used as sentinels for surveillance of the presence of such viruses in a given locality. In addition, capture–recapture studies should be initiated in order to understand better the dynamics of TOSV and SFSV in bat populations.
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11
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Hart CE, Thangamani S. Tick-virus interactions: Current understanding and future perspectives. Parasite Immunol 2021; 43:e12815. [PMID: 33368375 DOI: 10.1111/pim.12815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2020] [Revised: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Ticks are the primary vector of arboviruses in temperate climates worldwide. They are both the vector of these pathogens to humans and an integral component of the viral sylvatic cycle. Understanding the tick-pathogen interaction provides information about the natural maintenance of these pathogens and informs the development of countermeasures against human infection. In this review, we discuss currently available information on tick-viral interactions within the broader scope of general tick immunology. While the tick immune response to several pathogens has been studied extensively, minimal work centres on responses to viral infection. This is largely due to the high pathogenicity of tick-borne viruses; this necessitates high-containment laboratories or low-pathogenicity substitute viruses. This has biased most research towards tick-borne flaviviruses. More work is required to fully understand the role of tick-virus interaction in sylvatic cycling and transmission of diverse tick-borne viruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles Edward Hart
- Institute for Global Health and Translational Science, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, USA
| | - Saravanan Thangamani
- Institute for Global Health and Translational Science, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, USA
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12
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Kumosani TA, Al-Malki AL, Razvi SS, Balgoon MJ, Kaleem M, Huwait EA, Alghamdi MA, Yaghmoor SS, Abualnaja KO, Barbour EK, AL-Madani KA, AlToukhi MH, Kumosani AT, Moselhy SS. Hemorrhagic fever in Saudi Arabia: challenge to public health, effective management and future considerations. Afr Health Sci 2020; 20:1153-1163. [PMID: 33402960 PMCID: PMC7751520 DOI: 10.4314/ahs.v20i3.17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Viral hemorrhagic fevers (VHF) refers to a group of febrile illnesses caused by different viruses that result in high mortality in animals and humans. Many risk factors like increased human-animal interactions, climate change, increased mobility of people and limited diagnostic facility have contributed to the rapid spread of VHF. Materials The history of VHFs in the Saudi Arabian Peninsula has been documented since the 19th century, in which many outbreaks have been reported from the southwestern region of Saudi Arabia. Despite presence of regional network of experts and technical organizations, which expedite support and respond during outbreaks, there are some more challenges that need to be addressed immediately. Gaps in funding, exhaustive and inclusive response plans and improved surveillance systems are some areas of concern in the region which can be dealt productively. This review primarily focusses on the hemorrhagic fevers that are caused by three most common viruses namely, the Alkhurma hemorrhagic fever virus, Rift valley fever virus, and Dengue fever virus. Conclusion In summary, effective vector control, health education, possible use of vaccine and concerted synchronized efforts between different government organizations and private research institutions will help in planning effective outbreak-prevention and response strategies in future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taha A Kumosani
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Experimental Biochemistry Unit, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Production of Bioproducts for Industrial Applications Research Group, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulrahman L Al-Malki
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Experimental Biochemistry Unit, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Bioactive Natural Products Research Group, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Syed S Razvi
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Math and Science Department, Community College of Qatar
| | - Maha J Balgoon
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed Kaleem
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Bioactive Natural Products Research Group, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Etimad A Huwait
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Production of Bioproducts for Industrial Applications Research Group, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Maryam A Alghamdi
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Soonham S Yaghmoor
- Experimental Biochemistry Unit, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Production of Bioproducts for Industrial Applications Research Group, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Khalid O Abualnaja
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Bioactive Natural Products Research Group, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Elie K Barbour
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Experimental Biochemistry Unit, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Director of R and D Departement, Opticon Hygiene Consulting, Oechsli7,8807 Freienbach, Switzerland
| | - Khalid A AL-Madani
- Consultant in Clinical Nutrition, Member of the Boardof ILSI Middel East, Member of the Board of Saudi Society for Food and Nutrition. Advance Clinics, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Majdi H AlToukhi
- General Supervisor Health and Environmental Department and Consultant, Public Health and Infectious Diseases
| | - Afnan T Kumosani
- Department of pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Blood Bank Transfusion medicine, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Jeddah, National Guards, Jeddah, 21423
| | - Said S Moselhy
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Ain shams University, Cairo, Egypt
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Ul-Rahman A, Shabbir MAB. In silico analysis for development of epitopes-based peptide vaccine against Alkhurma hemorrhagic fever virus. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2019; 38:3110-3122. [PMID: 31370756 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2019.1651673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Alkhurma hemorrhagic fever virus (ALKV) causes a fatal clinical disease in human beings of different tropical and sub-tropical regions. Recently, the ALKV epidemics have raised a great public health concern with the room for improvement in the essential therapeutic interventions. Despite increased realistic clinical cases of ALKV infection, the efficient vaccine or immunotherapy is not yet available to-date. Therefore, the current study aimed to analyze the envelope glycoprotein of ALKV for the development of B-cells and T-cells epitope-based peptide vaccine using the computational in silico method. Utilizing various immunoinformatics approaches, a total of 5 B-cells and 25 T-cells (MHC-I = 17, MHC-II = 8) epitope-based peptides were predicted in the current study. All predicted peptides had highest antigenicity and immunogenicity scores along with high binding affinity to human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class II alleles. Among 25T-cell epitopes, three peptides were found alike to have affinity to bind both MHC-I and MHC-II alleles. These outcomes suggested that these predicted epitopes could potentially be used in the development of an efficient vaccine against ALKV, which may enable to elicit both humoral and cell-mediated immunity. Although, these predicted peptides could be useful in designing a candidate vaccine for the prevention of ALKV; however, it's in vitro and in vivo assessments are prerequisite.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aziz Ul-Rahman
- Department of Microbiology and Quality Operations Laboratory, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Abu Bakr Shabbir
- Department of Microbiology and Quality Operations Laboratory, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan.,China MOA Laboratory for Risk Assessment of Quality and Safety of Livestock and Poultry Products, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
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Al-Tayib OA. An Overview of the Most Significant Zoonotic Viral Pathogens Transmitted from Animal to Human in Saudi Arabia. Pathogens 2019; 8:E25. [PMID: 30813309 PMCID: PMC6471281 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens8010025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2018] [Revised: 02/12/2019] [Accepted: 02/13/2019] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Currently, there has been an increasing socioeconomic impact of zoonotic pathogens transmitted from animals to humans worldwide. Recently, in the Arabian Peninsula, including in Saudi Arabia, epidemiological data indicated an actual increase in the number of emerging and/or reemerging cases of several viral zoonotic diseases. Data presented in this review are very relevant because Saudi Arabia is considered the largest country in the Peninsula. We believe that zoonotic pathogens in Saudi Arabia remain an important public health problem; however, more than 10 million Muslim pilgrims from around 184 Islamic countries arrive yearly at Makkah for the Hajj season and/or for the Umrah. Therefore, for health reasons, several countries recommend vaccinations for various zoonotic diseases among preventive protocols that should be complied with before traveling to Saudi Arabia. However, there is a shortage of epidemiological data focusing on the emerging and reemerging of zoonotic pathogens transmitted from animal to humans in different densely populated cities and/or localities in Saudi Arabia. Therefore, further efforts might be needed to control the increasing impacts of zoonotic viral disease. Also, there is a need for a high collaboration to enhance the detection and determination of the prevalence, diagnosis, control, and prevention as well as intervention and reduction in outbreaks of these diseases in Saudi Arabia, particularly those from other countries. Persons in the health field including physicians and veterinarians, pet owners, pet store owners, exporters, border guards, and people involved in businesses related to animal products have adopted various preventive strategies. Some of these measures might pave the way to highly successful prevention and control results on the different transmission routes of these viral zoonotic diseases from or to Saudi Arabia. Moreover, the prevention of these viral pathogens depends on socioeconomic impacts, available data, improved diagnosis, and highly effective therapeutics or prophylaxis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omar A Al-Tayib
- Abdullah Bagshan for Dental and Oral Rehabilitation (DOR), Dental College Research Center, King Saud University, Riyadh 12372, Saudi Arabia.
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Khartoum, Khartoum 11111, Sudan.
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15
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Ul-Rahman A. Genetic diversity of Alkhurma hemorrhagic fever virus in Western Asia. INFECTION GENETICS AND EVOLUTION 2019; 70:80-83. [PMID: 30779959 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2019.02.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2018] [Revised: 01/31/2019] [Accepted: 02/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Alkhurma hemorrhagic fever, caused by Alkhurma hemorrhagic fever virus (ALKV), is an arboviral infection which is further expanding in tropical and subtropical regions of the Western Asia. A number of Alkhurma hemorrhagic fever virus (ALKV) strains have been isolated from clinical cases representing Saudi Arabia and Egypt; however, the phylogenetic relationship of these particular isolates to those reported previously elsewhere in the world remains elusive. Based on the analysis of the envelope (E), and non-structural gene (NS3 and NS5), the phylogenetic and PASC analysis revealed the circulation of three sub-lineages (I-III) suggesting a continuous evolution. Also, the comparative genome analysis revealed the envelope gene to be a reliable genetic marker to elucidate the molecular epidemiology and genetic diversity of discrete strains of ALKV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aziz Ul-Rahman
- Department of Microbiology and Quality Control Laboratory, University of Veterinary and Animal Lahore, 54000, Pakistan.
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Redwan EM, AlJaddawi AA, Uversky VN. Structural disorder in the proteome and interactome of Alkhurma virus (ALKV). Cell Mol Life Sci 2019; 76:577-608. [PMID: 30443749 PMCID: PMC7079808 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-018-2968-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2018] [Revised: 10/30/2018] [Accepted: 11/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Infection by the Alkhurma virus (ALKV) leading to the Alkhurma hemorrhagic fever is a common thread in Saudi Arabia, with no efficient treatment or prevention available as of yet. Although the rational drug design traditionally uses information on known 3D structures of viral proteins, intrinsically disordered proteins (i.e., functional proteins that do not possess unique 3D structures), with their multitude of disorder-dependent functions, are crucial for the biology of viruses. Here, viruses utilize disordered regions in their invasion of the host organisms and in hijacking and repurposing of different host systems. Furthermore, the ability of viruses to efficiently adjust and accommodate to their hostile habitats is also intrinsic disorder-dependent. However, little is currently known on the level of penetrance and functional utilization of intrinsic disorder in the ALKV proteome. To fill this gap, we used here multiple computational tools to evaluate the abundance of intrinsic disorder in the ALKV genome polyprotein. We also analyzed the peculiarities of intrinsic disorder predisposition of the individual viral proteins, as well as human proteins known to be engaged in interaction with the ALKV proteins. Special attention was paid to finding a correlation between protein functionality and structural disorder. To the best of our knowledge, this work represents the first systematic study of the intrinsic disorder status of ALKV proteome and interactome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elrashdy M Redwan
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, P.O. Box 80203, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Abdullah A AlJaddawi
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, P.O. Box 80203, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Vladimir N Uversky
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, P.O. Box 80203, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
- Department of Molecular Medicine and USF Health Byrd Alzheimer's Research Institute, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA.
- Laboratory of New Methods in Biology, Institute for Biological Instrumentation, Russian Academy of Sciences, Pushchino, 142290, Moscow Region, Russia.
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Abstract
The tick-borne pathogen Powassan virus is a rare cause of encephalitis in North America and the Russian Far East. The number of documented cases described since the discovery of Powassan virus in 1958 may be <150, although detection of cases has increased over the past decade. In the United States, the incidence of Powassan virus infections expanded from the estimated 1 case per year prior to 2005 to 10 cases per year during the subsequent decade. The increased detection rate may be associated with several factors, including enhanced surveillance, the availability of improved laboratory diagnostic methods, the expansion of the vector population, and, perhaps, altered human activities that lead to more exposure. Nonetheless, it remains unclear whether Powassan virus is indeed an emerging threat or if enzootic cycles in nature remain more-or-less stable with periodic fluctuations of host and vector population sizes. Despite the low disease incidence, the approximately 10% to 15% case fatality rate of neuroinvasive Powassan virus infection and the temporary or prolonged sequelae in >50% of survivors make Powassan virus a medical concern requiring the attention of public health authorities and clinicians. The medical importance of Powassan virus justifies more research on developing specific and effective treatments and prevention and control measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gábor Kemenesi
- Virological Research Group, Szentágothai Research Centre, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
- Institute of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Krisztián Bányai
- Institute for Veterinary Medical Research, Centre for Agricultural Research, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
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Tambo E, El-Dessouky AG. Defeating re-emerging Alkhurma hemorrhagic fever virus outbreak in Saudi Arabia and worldwide. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2018; 12:e0006707. [PMID: 30260960 PMCID: PMC6159858 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0006707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ernest Tambo
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Unit, Public Health Pests Laboratory, Jeddah Governorate, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Microbiology and Parasitology Unit, Public Health Pests Laboratory, Jeddah Governorate, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- * E-mail:
| | - Ashraf G. El-Dessouky
- Microbiology and Parasitology Unit, Public Health Pests Laboratory, Jeddah Governorate, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Biochemical Genetic Unit, Medical Genetics Center, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
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Kannangara DW, Patel P. Report of Non-Lyme, Erythema Migrans Rashes from New Jersey with a Review of Possible Role of Tick Salivary Toxins. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2018; 18:641-652. [PMID: 30129909 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2018.2278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Erythema migrans (EM) rashes once considered pathognomonic of Lyme disease (LD) have been reported following bites of arthropods that do not transmit LD and in areas with no LD. Also, EM rashes have been reported in association with organisms other than members of Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato complex. Arthropod saliva has chemicals that have effects on the host and pathogen transmission. Tick saliva has protein families similar to spiders and scorpions and even substances homologous to those found in snakes and other venomous animals. Ticks "invertebrate pharmacologists" have a sophisticated arsenal of chemicals that assist in blood feeding, pathogen transmission, and suppressing host defenses. No organisms have been isolated from many EM rashes. We propose that tick salivary toxins may play a role in the causation of rashes and laboratory abnormalities in tick-borne diseases. The role of tick salivary toxins needs further exploration. Cases of Lyme-like EM rashes referred to as STARI (Southern Tick-Associated Rash Illness) following bites of the lone star tick, Amblyomma americanum, in the United States have been reported predominantly in Southeastern Missouri and a few in South Carolina, North Carolina, Georgia, and one case each in Mississippi and Long Island, New York. Although there is one report of Borrelia lonestari in a patient with a rash, biopsies of 31 cases of STARI, with cultures and PCR, failed to show a relationship. Distribution of A. americanum, whose bites are associated with STARI, now extends along the East Coast of the United States, including New Jersey, up to the Canadian border. As far as we are aware, there have been no prior reports of Lyme-like rashes in New Jersey. In this study, we present case examples of 2 Lyme-like rashes, variations of EM rashes, and a brief review of studies that suggest a role of tick salivary toxins in tick-borne diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Pritiben Patel
- St Luke's Health NetWork , Warren Campus, Phillipsburg, New Jersey
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Palanisamy N, Akaberi D, Lennerstrand J, Lundkvist Å. Comparative genome analysis of Alkhumra hemorrhagic fever virus with Kyasanur forest disease and tick-borne encephalitis viruses by the in silico approach. Pathog Glob Health 2018; 112:210-226. [PMID: 29745301 PMCID: PMC6151960 DOI: 10.1080/20477724.2018.1471187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Alkhumra hemorrhagic fever virus (AHFV), a relatively new member of the Flaviviruses, was discovered in Saudi Arabia 23 years ago. AHFV is classified in the tick-borne encephalitis virus serocomplex, along with the Kyasanur forest disease virus (KFDV) and tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV). Currently, very little is known about the pathologies of AHFV. In this study, using the available genome information of AHFV, KFDV and TBEV, we have predicted and compared the following aspects of these viruses: evolution, nucleotide and protein compositions, recombination, codon frequency, substitution rate, N- and O-glycosylation sites, signal peptide and cleavage site, transmembrane region, secondary structure of 5' and 3' UTRs and RNA-RNA interactions. Additionally, we have modeled the 3D protease and RNA-dependent RNA polymerase structures for AHFV, KFDV and TBEV. Recombination analysis showed no evidence of recombination in the AHFV genome with that of either KFDV or TBEV, although single break point analysis showed that nucleotide position 7399 (in the NS4B) is a breakpoint location. AHFV, KFDV and TBEV are very similar in terms of codon frequency, the number of transmembrane regions, properties of the polyprotein, RNA-RNA interaction sequences, NS3 protease and NS5 polymerase structures and 5' UTR structure. Using genome sequences, we showed the similarities between these closely- related viruses on several different areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Navaneethan Palanisamy
- Molecular and Cellular Engineering Group, University of Freiburg, Institute of Biology II, Freiburg, Germany
- The Hartmut Hoffmann-Berling International Graduate School of Molecular and Cellular Biology (HBIGS), University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Dario Akaberi
- Section of Clinical Microbiology, Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Zoonosis Science Center, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Johan Lennerstrand
- Section of Clinical Microbiology, Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Zoonosis Science Center, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Åke Lundkvist
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Zoonosis Science Center, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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Grabowski JM, Hill CA. A Roadmap for Tick-Borne Flavivirus Research in the "Omics" Era. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2017; 7:519. [PMID: 29312896 PMCID: PMC5744076 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2017.00519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2017] [Accepted: 12/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Tick-borne flaviviruses (TBFs) affect human health globally. Human vaccines provide protection against some TBFs, and antivirals are available, yet TBF-specific control strategies are limited. Advances in genomics offer hope to understand the viral complement transmitted by ticks, and to develop disruptive, data-driven technologies for virus detection, treatment, and control. The genome assemblies of Ixodes scapularis, the North American tick vector of the TBF, Powassan virus, and other tick vectors, are providing insights into tick biology and pathogen transmission and serve as nucleation points for expanded genomic research. Systems biology has yielded insights to the response of tick cells to viral infection at the transcript and protein level, and new protein targets for vaccines to limit virus transmission. Reverse vaccinology approaches have moved candidate tick antigenic epitopes into vaccine development pipelines. Traditional drug and in silico screening have identified candidate antivirals, and target-based approaches have been developed to identify novel acaricides. Yet, additional genomic resources are required to expand TBF research. Priorities include genome assemblies for tick vectors, “omic” studies involving high consequence pathogens and vectors, and emphasizing viral metagenomics, tick-virus metabolomics, and structural genomics of TBF and tick proteins. Also required are resources for forward genetics, including the development of tick strains with quantifiable traits, genetic markers and linkage maps. Here we review the current state of genomic research on ticks and tick-borne viruses with an emphasis on TBFs. We outline an ambitious 10-year roadmap for research in the “omics era,” and explore key milestones needed to accomplish the goal of delivering three new vaccines, antivirals and acaricides for TBF control by 2030.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey M Grabowski
- Biology of Vector-Borne Viruses Section, Laboratory of Virology, Rocky Mountain Laboratories, National Institutes of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Hamilton, MT, United States
| | - Catherine A Hill
- Department of Entomology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States.,Purdue Institute of Inflammation, Immunology and Infectious Disease, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
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Alkhurma hemorrhagic fever virus. Microbes Infect 2017; 19:305-310. [PMID: 28456648 DOI: 10.1016/j.micinf.2017.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2017] [Revised: 04/15/2017] [Accepted: 04/16/2017] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Alkhurma hemorrhagic fever virus (AHFV) was first isolated in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, in the 1990s from the blood of a butcher. Subsequently, the virus was recognized in many patients in Saudi Arabia and rarely from Egypt and Djibouti. In this review, we summarize the current literature on AHFV globally with special focus on Saudi Arabia.
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Offerdahl DK, Clancy NG, Bloom ME. Stability of a Tick-Borne Flavivirus in Milk. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2016; 4:40. [PMID: 27243000 PMCID: PMC4862983 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2016.00040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2016] [Accepted: 04/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The tick-borne flaviviruses (TBFV) occur worldwide and the tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) members of the group often cause severe, debilitating neurological disease in humans. Although the primary route of infection is through the bite of an infected tick, alimentary infection through the consumption of TBEV-contaminated dairy products is also well-documented and is responsible for some disease in endemic areas. Experimental infection of goats, cattle, and sheep with TBEV shows that the virus can be excreted in the milk of infected animals. Additionally, the virus remains infectious after exposure to low pH levels, similar to those found in the stomach. To evaluate the survival of virus in milk, we studied the stability of the BSL-2 TBFV, Langat virus, in unpasteurized goat milk over time and after different thermal treatments. Virus was stable in milk maintained under refrigeration conditions; however, there was a marked reduction in virus titer after incubation at room temperature. High temperature, short time pasteurization protocols completely inactivated the virus. Interestingly, simulation of a typical thermal regime utilized for cheese did not completely inactivate the virus in milk. These findings stress the importance of proper milk handling and pasteurization processes in areas endemic for TBEV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle K. Offerdahl
- Laboratory of Virology, Rocky Mountain Laboratories, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Hamilton, MT, USA
| | - Niall G. Clancy
- Laboratory of Virology, Rocky Mountain Laboratories, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Hamilton, MT, USA
| | - Marshall E. Bloom
- Laboratory of Virology, Rocky Mountain Laboratories, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Hamilton, MT, USA
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A sero-epidemiological study of arboviral fevers in Djibouti, Horn of Africa. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2014; 8:e3299. [PMID: 25502692 PMCID: PMC4263616 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0003299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2014] [Accepted: 09/26/2014] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Arboviral infections have repeatedly been reported in the republic of Djibouti, consistent with the fact that essential vectors for arboviral diseases are endemic in the region. However, there is a limited recent information regarding arbovirus circulation, and the associated risk predictors to human exposure are largely unknown. We performed, from November 2010 to February 2011 in the Djibouti city general population, a cross-sectional ELISA and sero-neutralisation-based sero-epidemiological analysis nested in a household cohort, which investigated the arboviral infection prevalence and risk factors, stratified by their vectors of transmission. Antibodies to dengue virus (21.8%) were the most frequent. Determinants of infection identified by multivariate analysis pointed to sociological and environmental exposure to the bite of Aedes mosquitoes. The population was broadly naïve against Chikungunya (2.6%) with risk factors mostly shared with dengue. The detection of limited virus circulation was followed by a significant Chikungunya outbreak a few months after our study. Antibodies to West Nile virus were infrequent (0.6%), but the distribution of cases faithfully followed previous mapping of infected Culex mosquitoes. The seroprevalence of Rift valley fever virus was 2.2%, and non-arboviral transmission was suggested. Finally, the study indicated the circulation of Toscana-related viruses (3.7%), and a limited number of cases suggested infection by tick-borne encephalitis or Alkhumra related viruses, which deserve further investigations to identify the viruses and vectors implicated. Overall, most of the arboviral cases' predictors were statistically best described by the individuals' housing space and neighborhood environmental characteristics, which correlated with the ecological actors of their respective transmission vectors' survival in the local niche. This study has demonstrated autochthonous arboviral circulations in the republic of Djibouti, and provides an epidemiological inventory, with useful findings for risk mapping and future prevention and control programs. The arboviruses are a group of viruses transmitted by arthropods such as mosquitoes, ticks, or sandflies. These pathogens have complex life cycles and depend on both arthropods and vertebrate hosts for survival and transmission. Recent global increase in cases confirms that they are of great public health concern. In this study, conducted in the winter of 2010, the seroprevalence and determinants of infections were investigated in the republic of Djibouti, Horn of Africa. The highest seroprevalence values were observed for mosquito-borne diseases, in particular dengue (transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes); antibodies to dengue virus were found in a fifth of the sampled population. Most Djiboutians were initially unexposed to Chikungunya virus (also transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes), but a few months later, many got infected, resulting in an outbreak. Of the few West Nile virus seropositive cases detected, the majority were in places where WNV had been previously identified in Culex mosquitoes. In addition, seropositive cases of Toscana-related viruses (transmitted by sandflies), and tick-borne encephalitis virus or Alkhumra-related viruses (transmitted by ticks) were also observed. In this study, the risk of arboviral infections was mostly associated with environmental and behavioural risk factors, with highest risk prevailing in the city centre (District 1). Overall, the results suggest a likely exposure to the local circulation of arboviruses, rather than infections acquired outside the study area. This knowledge, therefore, confirms the impact of arbovirus infections in Djibouti, and is essential for prevention and control programs.
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Poorinmohammad N, Mohabatkar H. Homology Modeling and Conformational Epitope Prediction of Envelope Protein of Alkhumra Haemorrhagic Fever Virus. J Arthropod Borne Dis 2014; 9:116-24. [PMID: 26114149 PMCID: PMC4478412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2013] [Accepted: 07/01/2014] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of this study was to generate in silico 3D-structure of the envelope protein of AHFV using homology modeling method to further predict its conformational epitopes and help other studies to investigate its structural features using the model. METHODS A 3D-structure prediction was developed for the envelope protein of Alkhumra haemorrhagic fever virus (AHFV), an emerging tick-borne flavivirus, based on a homology modeling method using M4T and Modweb servers, as the 3D-structure of the protein is not available yet. Modeled proteins were validated using Modfold 4 server and their accuracies were calculated based on their RSMDs. Having the 3D predicted model with high quality, conformational epitopes were predicted using DiscoTope 2.0. RESULTS Model generated by M4T was more acceptable than the Modweb-generated model. The global score and P-value calculated by Modfold 4 ensured that a certifiable model was generated by M4T, since its global score was almost near 1 which is the score for a high resolution X-ray crystallography structure. Furthermore, itsthe P-value was much lower than 0.001 which means that the model is completely acceptable. Having 0.46 Å rmsd, this model was shown to be highly accurate. Results from DiscoTope 2.0 showed 26 residues as epitopes, forming conformational epitopes of the modeled protein. CONCLUSION The predicted model and epitopes for envelope protein of AHFV can be used in several therapeutic and diagnostic approaches including peptide vaccine development, structure based drug design or diagnostic kit development in order to facilitate the time consuming experimental epitope mapping process.
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Kyasanur Forest disease virus infection in mice is associated with higher morbidity and mortality than infection with the closely related Alkhurma hemorrhagic fever virus. PLoS One 2014; 9:e100301. [PMID: 24950196 PMCID: PMC4065072 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0100301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2014] [Accepted: 05/23/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Kyasanur Forest disease virus (KFDV) and Alkhurma hemorrhagic fever virus (AHFV) are closely related members of the Flavivirus genus and are important causes of human disease in India and the Arabian Peninsula, respectively. Despite high genetic similarity, the viruses have distinctly different host ranges and ecologies. Human cases of KFDV or AHFV develop a spectrum of disease syndromes ranging from liver pathology to neurologic disease. Case reports suggest KFDV is more commonly associated with hepatic and gastrointestinal manifestations whereas AHFV is more commonly associated with neurologic disease. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS Inoculation of three immunocompetent laboratory mouse strains revealed that KFDV was consistently more lethal than AHFV. In subsequent studies utilizing C57BL/6J mice, we demonstrated that KFDV infection was associated with higher viral loads and significantly higher mortality. KFDV-infected mice rapidly developed more severe disease than AHFV-infected mice, as evidenced by significant abnormalities on clinical chemistry panels and more severe pathology in the brain and gastrointestinal tract. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE Infections of C57BL/6J mice with KFDV or AHFV resulted in clinical disease syndromes that closely approximate the diseases seen in human cases. Despite high genetic similarity, there were clear differences in survival, viral kinetics, clinical chemistry data and histology. These results suggest that distinct mouse models for AHFV and KFDV are necessary in order to gain a better understanding of the unique pathogenesis of each virus, as well as to provide platforms for testing promising vaccines and therapeutics.
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Memish ZA, Fagbo SF, Osman Ali A, AlHakeem R, Elnagi FM, Bamgboye EA. Is the epidemiology of alkhurma hemorrhagic fever changing?: A three-year overview in Saudi Arabia. PLoS One 2014; 9:e85564. [PMID: 24516520 PMCID: PMC3916301 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0085564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2013] [Accepted: 12/03/2013] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The epidemiology of Alkhurma hemorrhagic fever disease is yet to be fully understood since the virus was isolated in 1994 in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. SETTING Preventive Medicine department, Ministry of Health, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. DESIGN Retrospective analysis of all laboratory confirmed cases of Alkhurma hemorrhagic fever disease collected through active and passive surveillance from 1(st)-January 2009 to December, 31, 2011. RESULTS Alkhurma hemorrhagic fever (AHFV) disease increased from 59 cases in 2009 to 93 cases in 2011. Cases are being discovered outside of the region where it was initially diagnosed in Saudi Arabia. About a third of cases had no direct contact with animals or its products. Almost all cases had gastro-intestinal symptoms. Case fatality rate was less than 1%. CONCLUSIONS Findings in this study showed the mode of transmission of AHFV virus may not be limited to direct contact with animals or its products. Gastro-intestinal symptoms were not previously documented. Observed low case fatality rate contradicted earlier reports. Close monitoring of the epidemiology of AHFV is recommended to aid appropriate diagnosis. Housewives are advised to wear gloves when handling animals and animal products as a preventive measure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziad A. Memish
- Public Health Directorate, Ministry of Health, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
- College of Medicine, Al-Faisal University, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Shamsudeen F. Fagbo
- Public Health Directorate, Ministry of Health, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed Osman Ali
- Public Health Directorate, Ministry of Health, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Rafat AlHakeem
- Public Health Directorate, Ministry of Health, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Elijah A. Bamgboye
- Public Health Directorate, Ministry of Health, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
- Department of Medical Statistics and Epidemiology, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
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Rollin PE, Memish ZA. Alkhurma Hemorrhagic Fever. Emerg Infect Dis 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-416975-3.00005-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
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Shibl A, Senok A, Memish Z. Infectious diseases in the Arabian Peninsula and Egypt. Clin Microbiol Infect 2013; 18:1068-80. [PMID: 23066725 DOI: 10.1111/1469-0691.12010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Infectious diseases are important causes of morbidity and mortality globally. Epidemiologically, differences in the patterns of infectious diseases and antimicrobial resistance exist across diverse geographical regions. In this review on infectious diseases in the Arabian Peninsula and Egypt, the epidemiology of tuberculosis, malaria and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections will be addressed. The challenges of the hepatitis C epidemic in Egypt and the epidemiology of this infection across the region will be reviewed. In recent years, we have seen dengue endemicity become established, with major outbreaks in parts of the region. Emerging data also indicate that, across the region, there is an increasing burden of antibiotic resistance, with endemicity in healthcare settings and dissemination into the community. New challenges include the emergence of the Alkhurma haemorrhagic fever virus in Saudi Arabia. The annual Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia serves as a model for the control of infectious disease in mass gatherings. As most of these countries constantly experience a uniquely dynamic population influx in the form of expatriate workers, tourists, or pilgrims, concerted regional and international collaboration to address these public health concerns in a region that lies at the crossroads for the global spread of infectious pathogens is imperative.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Shibl
- Department of Pathology and Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
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Holbrook MR. Kyasanur forest disease. Antiviral Res 2012; 96:353-62. [PMID: 23110991 DOI: 10.1016/j.antiviral.2012.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2012] [Revised: 08/21/2012] [Accepted: 10/16/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
In the spring of 1957, an outbreak of severe disease was documented in people living near the Kyasanur forest in Karnataka state, India, which also affected wild nonhuman primates. Collection of samples from dead animals and the use of classical virological techniques led to the isolation of a previously unrecognized virus, named Kyasanur forest disease virus (KFDV), which was found to be related to the Russian spring-summer encephalitis (RSSE) complex of tick-borne viruses. Further evaluation found that KFD, which frequently took the form of a hemorrhagic syndrome, differed from most other RSSE virus infections, which were characterized by neurologic disease. Its association with illness in wild primates was also unique. Hemaphysalis spinigera was identified as the probable tick vector. Despite an estimated annual incidence in India of 400-500 cases, KFD is historically understudied. Most of what is known about the disease comes from studies in the late 1950s and early 1960s by the Virus Research Center in Pune, India and their collaborators at the Rockefeller Foundation. A report in ProMED in early 2012 indicated that the number of cases of KFD this year is possibly the largest since 2005, reminding us that there are significant gaps in our knowledge of the disease, including many aspects of its pathogenesis, the host response to infection and potential therapeutic options. A vaccine is currently in use in India, but efforts could be made to improve its long-term efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael R Holbrook
- NIAID Integrated Research Facility, 8200 Research Plaza, Ft. Detrick, Frederick, MD 21702, United States.
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Memish ZA, Fagbo SF, Assiri AM, Rollin P, Zaki AM, Charrel R, Mores C, MacNeil A. Alkhurma viral hemorrhagic fever virus: proposed guidelines for detection, prevention, and control in Saudi Arabia. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2012; 6:e1604. [PMID: 22860139 PMCID: PMC3409106 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0001604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ziad A Memish
- Public Health Directorate, Ministry of Health, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
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Memish ZA, Albarrak A, Almazroa MA, Al-Omar I, Alhakeem R, Assiri A, Fagbo S, MacNeil A, Rollin PE, Abdullah N, Stephens G. Seroprevalence of Alkhurma and other hemorrhagic fever viruses, Saudi Arabia. Emerg Infect Dis 2012; 17:2316-8. [PMID: 22172587 PMCID: PMC3311215 DOI: 10.3201/eid1712.110658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
A 2009 deployment of military units from several Saudi Arabian provinces to Jazan Province, Saudi Arabia, enabled us to evaluate exposure to Alkhurma, Crimean-Congo, dengue, and Rift Valley hemorrhagic fever viruses. Seroprevalence to all viruses was low; however, Alkhurma virus seroprevalence was higher (1.3%) and less geographically restricted than previously thought.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziad A Memish
- Ministry of Health, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
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Madani TA, Azhar EI, Abuelzein ETM, Kao M, Al-Bar HM, Niedrig M, Ksiazek TG. Alkhumra, Not Alkhurma, Is the Correct Name of the New Hemorrhagic Fever Flavivirus Identified in Saudi Arabia. Intervirology 2012; 55:259-60; author reply 261-2. [DOI: 10.1159/000337238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
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Alzahrani AG, Al Shaiban HM, Al Mazroa MA, Al-Hayani O, MacNeil A, Rollin PE, Memish ZA. Alkhurma Virus, Subtype of Kyasanur Forest Disease Virus, was Described for the First Time in 1995 in Saudi Arabia Response to Dr. Madanis Letter. Intervirology 2012. [DOI: 10.1159/000337239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
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35
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Liebert UG. Controversy on Virus Designation: Alkhumra Sive Alkhurma Hemorrhagic Fever Flavivirus. Intervirology 2012; 55:257-8. [DOI: 10.1159/000337237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
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Dodd KA, Bird BH, Khristova ML, Albariño CG, Carroll SA, Comer JA, Erickson BR, Rollin PE, Nichol ST. Ancient ancestry of KFDV and AHFV revealed by complete genome analyses of viruses isolated from ticks and mammalian hosts. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2011; 5:e1352. [PMID: 21991403 PMCID: PMC3186760 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0001352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2011] [Accepted: 08/25/2011] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alkhurma hemorrhagic fever virus (AHFV) and Kyasanur forest disease virus (KFDV) cause significant human disease and mortality in Saudi Arabia and India, respectively. Despite their distinct geographic ranges, AHFV and KFDV share a remarkably high sequence identity. Given its emergence decades after KFDV, AHFV has since been considered a variant of KFDV and thought to have arisen from an introduction of KFDV to Saudi Arabia from India. To gain a better understanding of the evolutionary history of AHFV and KFDV, we analyzed the full length genomes of 16 AHFV and 3 KFDV isolates. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS Viral genomes were sequenced and compared to two AHFV sequences available in GenBank. Sequence analyses revealed higher genetic diversity within AHFVs isolated from ticks than human AHFV isolates. A Bayesian coalescent phylogenetic analysis demonstrated an ancient divergence of AHFV and KFDV of approximately 700 years ago. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE The high sequence diversity within tick populations and the presence of competent tick vectors in the surrounding regions, coupled with the recent identification of AHFV in Egypt, indicate possible viral range expansion or a larger geographic range than previously thought. The divergence of AHFV from KFDV nearly 700 years ago suggests other AHFV/KFDV-like viruses might exist in the regions between Saudi Arabia and India. Given the human morbidity and mortality associated with these viruses, these results emphasize the importance of more focused study of these significant public health threats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly A. Dodd
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
- School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, California, United States of America
| | - Brian H. Bird
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Marina L. Khristova
- Biotechnology Core Facility Branch, Division of Scientific Resources, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - César G. Albariño
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Serena A. Carroll
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - James A. Comer
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Bobbie R. Erickson
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Pierre E. Rollin
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Stuart T. Nichol
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Mahdi M, Erickson BR, Comer JA, Nichol ST, Rollin PE, AlMazroa MA, Memish ZA. Kyasanur Forest Disease virus Alkhurma subtype in ticks, Najran Province, Saudi Arabia. Emerg Infect Dis 2011; 17:945-7. [PMID: 21529425 PMCID: PMC3321790 DOI: 10.3201/eid1705.101824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
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