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[Pathogenesis of animal herpesviruses to human]
1Dept. of Global Agricultural Science, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Science, University of Tokyo.
Abstract:
More than 90 spices of herpes viruses have been isolated from wide variety of non-human animals. Among these herpes viruses, only B virus (Cercopithecine herpesvirus 1), the natural host of which is macaque monkey, is severely pathogenic to human. B virus infects human through handling infected monkey tissues or by injury caused by infected monkey, and severe encephalitis ensues. However, in 1997 mucocutaneous infection without injury was reported. The genome structure and immunogenic property of B virus is similar to those of human herpesvirus(HSV). And pathogenecity of B virus to monkey is also similar to that of HSV to human. Although the natural host of pseudorabiesvirus (Suid herpesvirus 1) is swine, it infects wide range of animals and causes severe nervous symptoms. However, the pathogenicity to human is controversial.
Insights
B virus (Cercopithecine herpesvirus 1), a macaque monkey herpesvirus, is highly pathogenic to humans, causing severe encephalitis. While typically transmitted through direct contact or injury, non-injury mucocutaneous infections have been reported.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Zoonotic Diseases
- Comparative Pathology
Context:
- Over 90 herpesvirus species exist in animals, but few pose significant human health risks.
- B virus (Cercopithecine herpesvirus 1) from macaques is a notable exception, causing severe human encephalitis.
- Transmission routes for B virus include handling infected tissues and monkey-inflicted injuries, with recent reports of mucocutaneous transmission.
Purpose:
- To highlight the significant zoonotic threat posed by B virus.
- To compare the pathogenic similarities between B virus in macaques and human herpesvirus (HSV) in humans.
- To discuss the broader implications of animal herpesviruses, referencing pseudorabiesvirus as another example.
Summary:
- B virus, endemic to macaque monkeys, is a severe human pathogen causing encephalitis, primarily through direct exposure or injury.
- Its genomic and immunogenic properties resemble human herpesvirus (HSV), with similar pathogenicity patterns in their respective hosts.
- While B virus poses a clear human risk, the pathogenicity of other animal herpesviruses like pseudorabiesvirus remains under investigation.
Impact:
- Emphasizes the critical need for stringent safety protocols when handling non-human primates, especially macaques.
- Underscores the potential for zoonotic viral transmission and the importance of understanding viral evolution and host specificity.
- Informs public health strategies for managing and preventing zoonotic diseases originating from animal herpesviruses.