Biosecurity and Vaccines for Emerging Aquatic Animal RNA Viruses

Area of Science:

• Aquatic Virology
• Infectious Diseases in Animals
• One Health

Background:

• Emerging RNA viruses represent a significant threat to aquatic ecosystems and economies.
• High mutation rates and adaptability of RNA viruses facilitate cross-species transmission and host range expansion.
• Aquaculture faces major RNA virus outbreaks in fish, while marine mammals are impacted by morbilliviruses and highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive review of RNA virus emergence and significance in aquatic animals over the past two decades.
• To focus on the critical aspects of biosecurity measures and vaccine development for aquatic RNA viruses.
• To highlight the urgent need for effective antiviral strategies and novel vaccine platforms.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of scientific publications from the last 20 years.
• Analysis of viral emergence patterns, host impacts, and disease management strategies.
• Evaluation of current biosecurity protocols and vaccine development approaches.

Main Results:

• RNA viruses are a primary cause of disease outbreaks in farmed fish.
• Marine mammals are increasingly susceptible to morbilliviruses and HPAI H5N1, with implications for zoonotic spillover.
• Existing antiviral treatments are limited, and vaccine development is complex.

Conclusions:

• Enhanced biosecurity measures are essential for mitigating RNA virus threats in aquatic environments.
• Novel vaccine technologies, such as self-assembling protein nanocages, show promise for RNA virus control.
• Addressing RNA virus emergence requires integrated strategies encompassing surveillance, biosecurity, and advanced vaccine development.