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Whole Genome Sequencing for Rapid Characterization of Rabies Virus Using Nanopore Technology
Published on: August 18, 2023
[Bat rabies in Europe and the Czech Republic]
Jan Helesic1, Tomás Bartonícka, Lenka Krbková
1Clinic of Children Infectious Diseases, Faculty Hospital, Brno, Czech Republic. helesicj@.fnbrno.cz
Abstract:
In 2005, six children were treated in our department who had been in contact with a bat infected with European bat lyssavirus 1 (EBL1). In the Czech Republic, this was the first confirmed case of rabies since 2002, but the fourth case of bat rabies since 1994. All the cases were related to Southern Moravia and bat species which almost do not migrate. This suggests only endemic prevalence of EBL1 in this country. Bat rabies is different from rabies in terrestic mammals. Based on genetic analyses, the lyssavirus genus may be divided into 6 genotypes of which genotypes 1 (rabies virus), 5 (EBL1) and 6 (EBL2) are found in Europe. The infectious cycles of bat lyssaviruses are limited solely to bat populations, in particular the Eptesicus serotinus species and the Myotis genus. Transmission to other mammals is rare. In Europe, four cases of human infection and death due to rabies caused by any of bat lyssaviruses have been reported. Immunologically, bat lyssaviruses are very similar to the common rabies virus. Therefore, the standard prophylactic methods are sufficient. Because of a different natural reservoir, the Czech Republic may be still considered a rabies-free country. However, contacts with bats always pose a risk of rabies.
Insights
Six children exposed to European bat lyssavirus 1 (EBL1) in 2005 highlight the endemic bat rabies risk in the Czech Republic. While rare, bat rabies transmission necessitates continued vigilance and standard rabies prophylaxis.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Virology
- Zoonotic Diseases
- Public Health
Context:
- The Czech Republic reported a case of European bat lyssavirus 1 (EBL1) in 2005, the first since 2002 and fourth bat rabies case since 1994.
- All reported bat rabies cases in the Czech Republic are linked to Southern Moravia and non-migratory bat species, suggesting endemic EBL1 prevalence.
- Bat rabies, caused by lyssavirus genotypes 5 (EBL1) and 6 (EBL2), differs from terrestrial mammal rabies, with infectious cycles primarily limited to bat populations.
Purpose:
- To report a human exposure case to EBL1 in the Czech Republic.
- To discuss the epidemiology and characteristics of bat rabies in the region.
- To emphasize the importance of rabies prophylaxis despite the country's rabies-free status regarding terrestrial mammals.
Summary:
- Six children received post-exposure prophylaxis after contact with a bat infected with EBL1 in 2005.
- Genetic analysis reveals distinct lyssavirus genotypes, with EBL1 and EBL2 prevalent in European bats.
- Human infections from bat lyssaviruses are rare in Europe, but standard rabies vaccination protocols remain effective.
Impact:
- This case underscores the persistent risk of rabies transmission from bats, even in rabies-free countries.
- Understanding bat rabies epidemiology is crucial for public health strategies and preventing zoonotic spillover.
- Standard prophylactic measures are effective against bat lyssaviruses, ensuring human protection through timely vaccination.
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