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Validating Whole Genome Nanopore Sequencing, using Usutu Virus as an Example
Published on: March 11, 2020
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Outbreak and Cocirculation of Three Different Usutu Virus Strains in Eastern Germany
Michael Sieg1,2, Volker Schmidt3, Ute Ziegler4
11 Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Institute of Virology, University of Leipzig , Leipzig, Germany .
Vector Borne and Zoonotic Diseases (Larchmont, N.Y.)
|August 18, 2017
Summary
Usutu virus (USUV) caused significant bird deaths in Eastern Germany, with three lineages circulating. Mosquito monitoring is crucial for tracking this mosquito-borne flavivirus spread.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Virology
- Ecology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Usutu virus (USUV) is a significant flavivirus impacting bird populations.
- Mosquito-borne arboviruses pose a growing threat to wildlife and public health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the introduction and spread of USUV in Eastern Germany.
- To identify circulating USUV lineages and their genetic diversity.
- To assess the role of mosquitoes in USUV transmission.
Main Methods:
- Phylogenetic analysis of whole-genome sequences.
- Detection of USUV in bird deaths and mosquito populations.
- Comparison of viral isolates from different regions.
Main Results:
- USUV introduction led to massive blackbird mortality in Eastern Germany.
- Three distinct USUV lineages (Europe 3, Africa 2, Africa 3-like) were identified.
- USUV was detected in Culex pipiens mosquitoes, indicating potential for wider spread.
- Rapid accumulation of mutations, particularly in the NS3 region, was observed.
- Independent introduction events likely contributed to the cocirculation of diverse "Africa 3-like" isolates.
Conclusions:
- USUV poses a substantial threat to resident bird populations in Germany.
- Simultaneous circulation of multiple USUV lineages highlights complex transmission dynamics.
- Mosquito surveillance is essential for early detection and management of arbovirus outbreaks.
