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Detection of Infectious Virus from Field-collected Mosquitoes by Vero Cell Culture Assay
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West Nile virus infection in Eastern fox squirrels (Sciurus niger).

M Kiupel1, H A Simmons, S D Fitzgerald

  • 1Diagnostic Center for Population and Animal Health, Michigan State University, G300 VMC, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA. kiupel@dcpah.msu.edu

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West Nile virus (WNV) has been detected in Eastern fox squirrels for the first time. This finding highlights the virus

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Area of Science:

  • Veterinary Medicine
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Wildlife Health

Background:

  • West Nile virus (WNV) emerged in the USA in 1999, spreading rapidly and causing significant mortality in birds, horses, and humans.
  • The 2002 epidemic saw an increase in equine and human cases, alongside sporadic reports in other mammals.
  • Eastern fox squirrels (Sciurus niger) were not previously documented as hosts for WNV.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To report the first confirmed cases of West Nile virus infection in Eastern fox squirrels.
  • To document the clinical and pathological findings associated with WNV in this species.
  • To investigate the presence of WNV in squirrel tissues using molecular and immunohistochemical methods.

Main Methods:

  • Three Eastern fox squirrels exhibiting neurological signs were examined.
  • Tissues were analyzed using immunohistochemical staining for WNV antigen.
  • Reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was employed to detect WNV-specific RNA.

Main Results:

  • Neurological signs observed included head tilt, tremors, paralysis, and uncoordinated movement.
  • Microscopic examination revealed lymphoplasmacytic inflammation in the brain, heart, kidney, and liver.
  • Immunohistochemistry confirmed WNV antigen in the kidneys of all three squirrels and in the brain and heart of one.
  • RT-PCR detected WNV RNA in two of the three squirrels.

Conclusions:

  • Eastern fox squirrels are susceptible to West Nile virus infection.
  • WNV can cause neurological disease and systemic inflammation in fox squirrels.
  • This study identifies a new potential reservoir or host for WNV in the United States.