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Validating Whole Genome Nanopore Sequencing, using Usutu Virus as an Example
Published on: March 11, 2020
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Usutu Virus: An Arbovirus on the Rise
Ferdinand Roesch1, Alvaro Fajardo2, Gonzalo Moratorio1,2,3
1Institut Pasteur, Viral Populations and Pathogenesis Unit, CNRS UMR 3569, 75015 Paris, France.
Viruses
|July 25, 2019
Summary
Usutu virus (USUV), a flavivirus, is spreading in Europe, primarily affecting birds and transmitted by mosquitoes. While human cases are rare, neurological disease is a potential risk, necessitating further study of its transmission dynamics.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Virology
- Medical Entomology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Usutu virus (USUV) is an emerging flavivirus first isolated in Africa.
- USUV has caused significant outbreaks in European bird populations since its introduction.
- Its ecological similarity to West Nile virus (WNV) suggests potential for increased human impact.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discuss the transmission dynamics of Usutu virus.
- To provide an overview of the current Usutu virus circulation in Europe.
- To highlight the potential of USUV as a human pathogen.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on Usutu virus.
- Analysis of epidemiological data on USUV circulation.
- Comparison of USUV and WNV transmission cycles.
Main Results:
- Usutu virus has expanded its geographical distribution in Europe.
- The enzootic cycle involves Culex mosquitoes and birds, with mammals as dead-end hosts.
- While most human infections are asymptomatic, rare neurological cases have been reported.
Conclusions:
- Usutu virus poses a growing public health concern due to its increasing circulation in Europe.
- Understanding USUV transmission is crucial for predicting and mitigating potential outbreaks.
- Further research is needed to fully assess the risk Usutu virus poses to human health.
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