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Two novel arenaviruses detected in pygmy mice, Ghana
Emerging Infectious Diseases
|November 6, 2013
Abstract:
Two arenaviruses were detected in pygmy mice (Mus spp.) by screening 764 small mammals in Ghana. The Natal multimammate mouse (Mastomys natalensis), the known Lassa virus reservoir, was the dominant indoor rodent species in 4 of 10 sites, and accounted for 27% of all captured rodents. No rodent captured indoors tested positive for an arenavirus.
Insights
Two novel arenaviruses were found in pygmy mice in Ghana. Despite the presence of the Lassa virus reservoir rodent, no indoor rodents tested positive for any arenavirus.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Virology
- Zoonotic Diseases
- Mammalogy
Background:
- Arenaviruses pose significant public health risks, with Lassa virus being a notable example.
- Rodents, particularly Mastomys natalensis, are known reservoirs for several pathogenic arenaviruses.
- Understanding arenavirus circulation in small mammal populations is crucial for disease prevention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To screen small mammals in Ghana for the presence of arenaviruses.
- To investigate the prevalence of Mastomys natalensis as a potential reservoir for arenaviruses.
- To determine if indoor-dwelling rodents harbor arenaviruses.
Main Methods:
- A total of 764 small mammals were captured and screened for arenaviruses.
- Rodent species were identified, with a focus on Mastomys natalensis.
- Samples were collected from rodents captured both indoors and outdoors.
Main Results:
- Two distinct arenaviruses were detected in pygmy mice (Mus spp.).
- Mastomys natalensis was the most common indoor rodent, found at 4 out of 10 sites.
- Despite Mastomys natalensis's prevalence, no indoor-captured rodents tested positive for arenaviruses.
Conclusions:
- Pygmy mice represent a potential new host for arenaviruses in Ghana.
- The absence of indoor rodent infections suggests potential behavioral or environmental factors influencing transmission.
- Further research is needed to characterize the newly detected arenaviruses and their ecological roles.
