Risk assessment of Ebola Reston virus in humans in the Philippines

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Public Health
• Infectious Disease Epidemiology
• Zoonosis Research

Background:

• Five outbreaks of Ebola Reston virus (RESTV) in animals have been linked to the Philippines.
• Previous human cases of RESTV have not resulted in death or illness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the risk of RESTV in humans in the Philippines.
• To evaluate the potential pathogenicity of RESTV in humans.

Main Methods:

• Utilized the World Health Organization Rapid Risk Assessment Manual.
• Conducted a literature review and employed a risk assessment matrix.
• Risk assessment performed by the Philippines Field Epidemiology Training Program.

Main Results:

• Assessed the risk of RESTV in humans and its pathogenicity as moderate.
• RESTV outbreaks involved non-human primates and domestic pigs.
• No human deaths or illnesses were attributed to RESTV, despite its identification in humans.

Conclusions:

• Moderate risk necessitates enhanced early detection and surveillance for RESTV.
• Further studies on RESTV pathogenesis and health consequences are required.
• A coordinated One Health approach involving public health, veterinary services, and the community is vital for zoonosis management.