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A novel poxvirus lethal to red squirrels (Sciurus vulgaris).
Kathryn Thomas1, Daniel M Tompkins2, Anthony W Sainsbury3
1Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Park, Bush Loan, Penicuik EH26 0PZ, UK.
The Journal of General Virology
|December 4, 2003
Summary
A novel parapoxvirus caused a lethal disease in UK red squirrels, displaying severe skin lesions. Genetic analysis indicates it represents a new genus within the Chordopoxviridae family.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Virology
- Wildlife Disease Ecology
Background:
- Parapoxviruses are known pathogens affecting various animal species.
- A significant decline in the United Kingdom's red squirrel population has been observed.
- A specific virus has been linked to this red squirrel decline.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and characterize the virus responsible for the lethal disease in red squirrels.
- To determine the etiological agent causing severe skin lesions in affected squirrels.
- To investigate the taxonomic placement of the isolated squirrel virus.
Main Methods:
- Virus isolation from diseased red squirrels.
- Experimental infection of captive red squirrels to confirm pathogenicity.
- Electron microscopy for viral morphology assessment.
- Preliminary sequence analysis and Southern hybridization for genetic characterization.
Main Results:
- A parapoxvirus was successfully isolated from an outbreak in north-east England.
- Experimental infections confirmed the virus as the cause of severe skin lesions and lethal disease.
- Viral morphology was consistent with parapoxviruses.
- Genetic analysis revealed unique characteristics, suggesting a new genus within Chordopoxviridae.
Conclusions:
- The identified parapoxvirus is the causative agent of the lethal disease impacting UK red squirrels.
- Despite some similarities, the virus's genetic distinctiveness warrants its classification as a new genus.
- This finding has implications for understanding parapoxvirus diversity and red squirrel conservation efforts.