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[An experimental study of the contact transmission of the Marburg virus]
Voprosy Virusologii
|November 1, 1991
Abstract:
Experiments in guinea pigs and M. rhesus monkeys showed the possibility of contact infection of animals with Marburg virus. Secondary infection occurred most intensively when the monkeys were kept together but was also shown to be possible when the animals were separated but placed in the direction of the air flow from the sick monkeys as well as by "nose-to-nose" contact excluding the alimentary mode of transmission and the role of the agent excreted in the urine.
Insights
Marburg virus can spread through direct contact and airborne transmission between animals. Experiments in guinea pigs and rhesus monkeys demonstrate close proximity and airflow facilitate secondary Marburg virus infections.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Infectious Diseases
- Animal Models
Context:
- Marburg virus (MARV) poses a significant public health threat.
- Understanding MARV transmission dynamics is crucial for effective control strategies.
- Previous studies have highlighted various transmission routes, but direct contact and airborne spread require further elucidation.
Purpose:
- To investigate the potential for contact and airborne transmission of Marburg virus in animal models.
- To differentiate between direct contact, airborne, and other potential routes of MARV spread.
- To assess the efficacy of different housing conditions on MARV transmission.
Summary:
- Experiments in guinea pigs and M. rhesus monkeys demonstrated Marburg virus transmission through direct animal contact.
- Secondary infections were most intense in grouped monkeys, but also occurred via airborne transmission (airflow) and direct facial contact.
- Transmission was shown to be possible even without alimentary routes or urine excretion, highlighting respiratory and direct contact pathways.
Impact:
- Provides critical insights into Marburg virus transmission mechanisms in susceptible animal populations.
- Informs the development of enhanced biosafety protocols for handling MARV-infected animals.
- Contributes to a better understanding of potential zoonotic spillover events and human-to-human transmission dynamics.