Rinderpest virus sequestration and use in posteradication era

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Virology
• Disease Eradication
• Global Animal Health

Background:

• Rinderpest was declared eradicated globally in 2011, marking a significant achievement in veterinary public health.
• Despite eradication, the potential for re-emergence necessitates continued vigilance and management of virus stocks.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the global status of rinderpest virus stocks following the disease's eradication.
• To understand the ongoing use and containment of rinderpest virus in laboratory settings worldwide.

Main Methods:

• A global survey was conducted, querying 150 countries regarding the presence and management of rinderpest virus stocks.
• Data collection focused on identifying laboratories possessing virus strains (attenuated, field) and diagnostic samples.

Main Results:

• Forty-four laboratories across 35 countries reported holding rinderpest virus stocks.
• These holdings include laboratory-attenuated strains, field strains, and diagnostic samples.
• Continued vaccine and reagent production, as well as ongoing laboratory experiments, were reported.

Conclusions:

• Rinderpest virus stocks persist in laboratories globally, supporting ongoing research and preparedness.
• The continued safe containment of these virus stocks is paramount to prevent any risk of rinderpest re-emergence.
• Strict adherence to biosafety and biosecurity standards is essential for laboratories managing rinderpest virus materials.