Indigenous Wildlife Rabies in Taiwan: Ferret Badgers, a Long Term Terrestrial Reservoir

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Virology
• Wildlife Disease Ecology
• Molecular Epidemiology

Background:

• Rabies emerged in Taiwan ferret badgers (FBs) in 2013, posing a potential threat to neighboring Asian countries.
• Understanding the genetic diversity and transmission dynamics of this wildlife rabies is crucial for effective control.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the origin, genetic diversity, and phylogeographic patterns of rabies virus in Taiwan ferret badgers.
• To identify viral transmission routes and geographical distribution influenced by natural barriers.

Main Methods:

• Phylogenetic analysis using maximum likelihood (ML) and Bayesian coalescent methods on glycoprotein (G) and nucleoprotein (N) genes.
• Phylogeographic and spatio-temporal transmission dynamics were assessed using SPREAD and QGIS software.

Main Results:

• The Taiwan FB rabies virus forms a unique clade distinct from other Asian strains.
• Three major FB rabies virus genotypes were identified, circulating in different geographical regions of Taiwan.
• Two genotypes spread across central and southern Taiwan, crossing river barriers, while a third remained in southeastern Taiwan due to mountain barriers.

Conclusions:

• The genetic diversity of FB rabies viruses suggests potential variations in FB biological profiles across Taiwan's geography.
• Establishing enhanced surveillance systems near natural barriers is recommended for early detection of potential rabies outbreaks.