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Validating Whole Genome Nanopore Sequencing, using Usutu Virus as an Example
Published on: March 11, 2020
Isolation of usutu virus in Germany
Hanna Jöst1, Alexandra Bialonski, Deborah Maus
1German Mosquito Control Association, Waldsee, Germany.
The American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene
|September 8, 2011
Summary
Usutu virus (USUV), a mosquito-borne flavivirus, was detected in Germany in 2010. Phylogenetic analysis confirmed its close relationship to an Austrian strain found in a dead blackbird in 2004.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Virology
- Arbovirology
- Molecular Epidemiology
Background:
- Usutu virus (USUV) is an emerging mosquito-borne flavivirus first identified in Austria in 2001.
- USUV has been associated with significant mortality in wild bird populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence and genetic characteristics of Usutu virus in Germany.
- To determine the phylogenetic relationship of German USUV strains to previously identified strains.
Main Methods:
- Mosquito surveillance was conducted in Germany in 2009 and 2010, with 70,378 female mosquitoes collected.
- Virus isolation was performed using cell culture techniques.
- Phylogenetic analysis was employed to determine the genetic relatedness of the isolated virus.
Main Results:
- Usutu virus was isolated from a pool of Culex pipiens pipiens mosquitoes collected in Weinheim, Germany, in August 2010.
- Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the German USUV strain is closely related to an Austrian strain detected in a blackbird in 2004.
Conclusions:
- This study confirms the presence of Usutu virus in Germany, highlighting its potential spread.
- The genetic similarity between German and Austrian strains suggests a possible common origin or recent introduction event.
- Continued monitoring of mosquito-borne viruses like USUV is crucial for understanding their epidemiology and impact on wildlife.
