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Detection of Infectious Virus from Field-collected Mosquitoes by Vero Cell Culture Assay
Published on: June 9, 2011
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Wild snakes harbor West Nile virus.
C R Dahlin1, D F Hughes2, W E Meshaka3
1Department of Biology, University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown, Johnstown, PA 15904, United States.
One Health (Amsterdam, Netherlands)
|June 16, 2017
Summary
Wild snakes in Pennsylvania were found to carry West Nile virus (WNV). This research suggests snakes may play a role in WNV transmission, adding to our understanding of the virus
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Epidemiology
- Herpetology
Background:
- West Nile virus (WNV) primarily cycles between birds and mosquitoes.
- The role of reptiles, particularly snakes, in WNV eco-epidemiology is not well-established.
- Understanding WNV reservoirs is crucial for disease management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence of West Nile virus in a wild snake population in Pennsylvania.
- To assess the potential role of snakes in WNV transmission dynamics.
Main Methods:
- Oral sampling of six snake species in Pennsylvania during summer 2013.
- Detection of WNV viral RNA using reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR).
Main Results:
- West Nile virus RNA was detected in two out of 123 Eastern Garter Snakes (Thamnophis sirtalis sirtalis) sampled.
- The prevalence of WNV in this snake population was 1.62%.
Conclusions:
- Snakes, specifically Eastern Garter Snakes, can harbor West Nile virus.
- These findings suggest snakes may contribute to the complex transmission cycle of WNV.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate the role of reptiles in WNV ecology.
