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Updated: May 23, 2026
06:25
Pan-lyssavirus Real Time RT-PCR for Rabies Diagnosis
Published on: July 10, 2019
A perspective on lyssavirus emergence and perpetuation
Charles E Rupprecht1, Amy Turmelle, Ivan V Kuzmin
1Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30333, USA. cyr5@cdc.gov
Current Opinion in Virology
|March 24, 2012
Summary
Rabies viruses (Lyssavirus) spread globally through mammals, primarily using the central nervous system and saliva for transmission. Bat and carnivore species are key reservoirs, highlighting the need for integrated surveillance and control strategies.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Ecology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Rabies is a global zoonotic disease caused by RNA viruses in the Rhabdoviridae family, genus Lyssavirus.
- Lyssaviruses infect the mammalian central nervous system, utilizing host behaviors and saliva for transmission.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the ecology and transmission dynamics of bat lyssaviruses.
- To emphasize the importance of surveillance and a One Health approach for rabies prevention.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of viral propagation mechanisms and host-pathogen interactions.
- Examination of reservoir species (Carnivora, Chiroptera) and their role in viral diversity.
- Application of metapopulation dynamics to understand viral ensemble emergence.
Main Results:
- All mammals are susceptible, with bats and carnivores serving as significant reservoirs.
- Host vagility, particularly in bats, facilitates viral diversity and global distribution.
- Viral 'ensembles' emerge in vivo influenced by host immunity and naive infections.
Conclusions:
- Integrated surveillance, improved diagnostics, and pathogen detection are crucial.
- A One Health approach targeting human, domestic animal, and wildlife interfaces is essential for effective prevention and control of bat lyssaviruses.
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