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Considering human-primate transmission of measles virus through the prism of risk analysis

Lisa Jones-Engel1, Gregory A Engel, Michael A Schillaci

  • 1Washington National Primate Research Center, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98195, USA. jonesengel@bart.rprc.washington.edu

American Journal of Primatology
|August 11, 2006
PubMed

Insights

Measles virus exposure in macaques varied significantly between Singapore and Nepal. While macaques in Singapore showed no measles antibodies, 100% of macaques in Nepal were seropositive, highlighting cross-species transmission risks.

Area of Science:

  • Veterinary Virology
  • Primate Health
  • Zoonotic Disease Research

Background:

  • Measles virus, endemic in humans, poses risks of morbidity and mortality in non-human primate (NHP) populations through cross-species transmission.
  • Understanding measles virus seroprevalence in free-ranging NHP populations is crucial for assessing zoonotic disease risks.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate serological evidence of measles virus exposure in two distinct free-ranging macaque populations.
  • To analyze contrasting seroprevalence rates using risk analysis to understand cross-species pathogen transmission dynamics.

Main Methods:

  • Serological testing for measles virus antibodies in macaques from Singapore (Bukit Timah Nature Reserve/Central Catchment Nature Reserve) and Nepal (Swoyambhu Temple).
  • Comparative analysis of serological data from Macaca fascicularis (Singapore) and Macaca mulatta (Nepal) populations.
  • Risk analysis to interpret differences in measles virus seroprevalence between the two study sites.

Main Results:

  • No measles virus antibodies were detected in 38 macaques (Macaca fascicularis) sampled in Singapore.
  • 100% of 39 macaques (Macaca mulatta) sampled at Swoyambhu Temple in Nepal were seropositive for measles virus antibodies.
  • Significant contrast in seroprevalence between the two geographically distinct macaque populations was observed.

Conclusions:

  • Measles virus exposure varies greatly in free-ranging macaques across different geographical locations.
  • Risk analysis provides a framework for studying cross-species pathogen transmission events.
  • Findings underscore the importance of monitoring NHP populations for zoonotic disease threats like measles.

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