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Experimental Viral Infection in Adult Mosquitoes by Oral Feeding and Microinjection
Published on: July 28, 2022
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West Nile Virus in Brazil.
Érica Azevedo Costa1, Marta Giovanetti2,3, Lilian Silva Catenacci4
1Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, Brazil.
Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland)
|August 6, 2021
Summary
West Nile virus (WNV) genetic evidence shows circulation in Brazil, particularly in Piauí. Enhanced surveillance is crucial for preparedness against future WNV epidemics.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Virology
- Epidemiology
- Genomic Surveillance
Background:
- West Nile virus (WNV) was first identified in Brazil in 2019, with prior serological evidence suggesting circulation since 2004.
- Despite historical evidence, WNV has been a low priority, leaving its genomic diversity, evolution, and transmission in Brazil largely uncharacterized.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive overview of WNV in Brazil using integrated diagnostic, sequencing, and modeling approaches.
- To identify key regions and factors influencing WNV transmission dynamics within Brazil.
Main Methods:
- Utilized diagnostic assays, nanopore sequencing, and phylogenetic inference for WNV detection and analysis.
- Employed climate-informed epidemiological modeling to assess potential transmission patterns across Brazil.
Main Results:
- Confirmed WNV circulation with new genetic evidence from equine red blood cells in Minas Gerais, São Paulo, and Piauí states.
- Identified Piauí as a key state for WNV epidemiology in Brazil based on climate-informed transmission modeling, while not ruling out other areas.
- Highlighted the scarcity of current data despite evidence of WNV persistence.
Conclusions:
- Existing data on WNV in Brazil is limited, with significant gaps in understanding its local evolution, epidemiology, and activity.
- Advocates for a transition to active WNV surveillance to enhance preparedness for potential human spill-over events and epidemics.
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