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Updated: May 8, 2026
10:26
Whole Genome Sequencing for Rapid Characterization of Rabies Virus Using Nanopore Technology
Published on: August 18, 2023
Enzootic and epizootic rabies associated with vampire bats, peru
Rene Edgar Condori-Condori1, Daniel G Streicker, Cesar Cabezas-Sanchez
1University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA. hws5@cdc.gov
Emerging Infectious Diseases
|August 24, 2013
Summary
Rabies virus (RABV) spread by vampire bats is increasing in South America. Phylogenetic analysis reveals distinct geographic structuring and potential new reservoirs in non-vampire bats, crucial for disease control.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Virology
- Epidemiology
- Bat Ecology
Background:
- Human rabies transmitted by common vampire bats (Desmodus rotundus) has increased in South America.
- Remote Amazonian areas are particularly affected due to bats feeding on humans.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the epizootiology of rabies virus (RABV) associated with vampire bats.
- To understand phylogenetic relationships and geographic structuring of RABV isolates in Peru.
Main Methods:
- Phylogenetic analysis of complete nucleoprotein gene sequences.
- Analysis of 157 RABV isolates from humans, domestic animals, and wildlife (including bats) collected in Peru (2002-2007).
Main Results:
- Distinct geographic structuring of RABVs was observed, indicating gradual spread among different vampire bat subpopulations.
- Three potential new RABV lineages were identified in three non-vampire bat species, suggesting novel virus reservoirs.
- Evidence of different transmission cycles within vampire bat populations.
Conclusions:
- Accurate identification of RABV reservoir hosts, including novel bat species, is critical for preventing human transmission.
- Understanding RABV genetic diversity and geographic spread informs public health interventions.
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