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Iquitos virus: a novel reassortant Orthobunyavirus associated with human illness in Peru

Patricia V Aguilar1, Alan D Barrett, Mohammad F Saeed

  • 1U.S. Naval Medical Research Unit Six, Lima, Peru. pvaguila@utmb.edu

Plos Neglected Tropical Diseases
|September 28, 2011
PubMed

Insights

A novel reassortant virus, Iquitos (IQT) virus, emerged in Peru, causing outbreaks of Oropouche fever. Genetic analysis revealed it contains ORO virus segments and a new Simbu virus segment, highlighting the need for enhanced pathogen surveillance.

Area of Science:

  • Virology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Epidemiology

Background:

  • Oropouche (ORO) virus is a significant human pathogen within the Simbu serogroup of Orthobunyaviruses.
  • The Amazon region is a hotspot for emerging infectious diseases, necessitating continuous monitoring.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To characterize a novel reassortant virus identified in Iquitos, Peru.
  • To investigate the etiological agent responsible for Oropouche fever outbreaks in the region.

Main Methods:

  • Genetic analysis of ORO-like virus strains.
  • Virus isolation and identification from patient samples.
  • Serological surveys to determine antibody prevalence.

Main Results:

  • A novel reassortant virus, named Iquitos (IQT) virus, was identified, possessing S and L segments from ORO virus and an M segment from a new Simbu virus.
  • IQT virus was isolated from patients and linked to Oropouche fever outbreaks in 2005 and 2006.
  • Antibody prevalence indicated significant circulation of both ORO virus (14.9%) and IQT virus (15.4%) in Iquitos residents.
  • Cross-protection studies suggest prior ORO virus infection does not confer immunity against IQT virus disease.

Conclusions:

  • The emergence of IQT virus, a novel Orthobunyavirus, in Peru underscores the dynamic nature of viral evolution in tropical regions.
  • Enhanced surveillance and laboratory capacity are crucial for detecting and responding to new viral threats in South America.

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