Measles vaccination: Threat from related veterinary viruses and need for continued vaccination post measles...

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Zoonotic Diseases
• Vaccinology

Background:

• Morbilliviruses, including measles virus (MV), canine distemper virus (CDV), and peste des petits ruminants virus (PPRV), impact both human and animal health globally.
• These viruses share genetic similarities, cell entry receptors, and pathogenesis, facilitating cross-species transmission and posing zoonotic risks.
• Recent fatal infections of primates with adapted CDV strains underscore the zoonotic potential of veterinary morbilliviruses.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the severe impact of morbilliviruses on global health.
• To emphasize the zoonotic potential of veterinary morbilliviruses due to their ability to cross species barriers.
• To advocate for continued measles virus vaccination and the development of novel vaccines against veterinary morbilliviruses.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing scientific literature on morbillivirus infections in human and animal populations.
• Analysis of evidence regarding cross-species transmission and zoonotic events.
• Assessment of current vaccination strategies and future vaccine development needs.

Main Results:

• Morbilliviruses cause significant morbidity and mortality worldwide.
• Evidence confirms morbilliviruses readily cross species barriers, with notable zoonotic events involving CDV.
• Genetic and pathogenic similarities among morbilliviruses indicate a potential risk following the withdrawal of MV vaccination.

Conclusions:

• Continued measles virus (MV) vaccination is essential to protect human populations.
• Development of novel, safe, and highly efficacious vaccines against veterinary morbilliviruses is a priority.
• Enhanced vaccination strategies are critical for long-term protection against zoonotic threats posed by morbilliviruses.