Human infection with a zoonotic orthopoxvirus in the country of Georgia
View abstract on PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.A novel orthopoxvirus caused skin lesions in two men after cow exposure in Georgia. Further investigation revealed evidence of this orthopoxvirus in local animals, suggesting a potential zoonotic transmission route.
Area Of Science
- Veterinary Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
- Genomics
Background
- Orthopoxviruses are a genus of DNA viruses that can cause significant morbidity in humans and animals.
- Zoonotic transmission of orthopoxviruses can occur through direct contact with infected animals or contaminated materials.
Observation
- Two men in Georgia developed cutaneous lesions after contact with ill cows.
- Laboratory testing confirmed the presence of a novel orthopoxvirus in lesion material.
- Serologic evidence indicated orthopoxvirus exposure in the patients' cows, rodents, and shrews.
Findings
- A novel orthopoxvirus species was identified through quantitative real-time PCR and DNA sequencing.
- A retrospective analysis identified a third human case from 2010 with similar symptoms.
Implications
- This discovery highlights a potential new zoonotic threat from orthopoxviruses.
- Clinicians should consider orthopoxvirus infection in individuals presenting with cutaneous lesions after animal contact.
- Further research is needed to understand the epidemiology and public health impact of this novel virus.