Zoonotic and emerging orbivirus infections

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Virology
• Emerging Infectious Diseases
• Molecular Diagnostics

Background:

• Novel orbiviruses, including Peruvian horse sickness virus (PHSV) and Yunnan orbivirus (YUOV), have emerged globally in the last 15 years.
• These viruses primarily affect equids but have also been detected in cattle, sheep, and dogs, highlighting broader host range potential.
• Orbiviruses represent a significant threat to livestock and domesticated animals, with some species exhibiting zoonotic potential.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the emergence and characteristics of novel orbiviruses.
• To discuss the diagnostic approaches for identifying PHSV and YUOV.
• To highlight the potential threat of orbiviruses to animal health and public health.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent orbivirus isolations and studies.
• Analysis of epidemiological data for PHSV and YUOV.
• Overview of developed serological and molecular diagnostic assays.

Main Results:

• PHSV and YUOV emerged simultaneously in geographically distinct regions, with PHSV endemic in Peru.
• YUOV has been isolated from various hosts, including carnivores, indicating a wide host susceptibility.
• Other orbiviruses like Palyam virus and Equine encephalosis virus are spreading beyond their native ranges.

Conclusions:

• The emergence of novel orbiviruses necessitates continuous surveillance and development of diagnostic tools.
• PHSV and YUOV provide models for studying pathogen emergence and geographic spread.
• Zoonotic orbiviruses underscore the importance of interdisciplinary approaches to animal and human health.