Detection of Rocio Virus SPH 34675 during Dengue Epidemics, Brazil, 2011-2013

Area of Science:

• Arbovirology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• Rocio virus, an arbovirus, has shown recent seroprevalence in animal populations in Brazil.
• This suggests a potential risk for the re-emergence of Rocio virus infections in endemic areas.
• Dengue fever is a common clinical suspicion, often necessitating the exclusion of other flavivirus infections.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report the identification of Rocio virus RNA in human patients.
• To highlight the importance of considering less common flavivirus infections in differential diagnoses.
• To emphasize the need for timely diagnostic testing for arboviruses.

Main Methods:

• Nucleic acid testing (RNA detection) was performed on clinical samples.
• Patients presented with symptoms clinically suspected of dengue fever.
• Laboratory findings ruled out dengue fever, prompting further investigation for other flaviviruses.

Main Results:

• Rocio virus RNA was successfully identified in samples from two human patients.
• These cases occurred in individuals initially suspected of having dengue fever.
• The findings confirm human infection with Rocio virus in the context of suspected arboviral illness.

Conclusions:

• Rocio virus should be considered in the differential diagnosis of febrile illnesses, particularly in regions with known animal reservoirs.
• Diagnostic algorithms should include testing for infrequent flaviviruses to ensure accurate and prompt patient management.
• Early identification of Rocio virus cases can aid in public health surveillance and control efforts.