Widely Distributed Pigeon Paramyxovirus Sub-Genotypes Pose a Risk to Immunocompromised Humans.
Celia Abolnik1, Michaela Hayes1
1Department of Production Animal Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort, South Africa.
Zoonoses and Public Health
|September 8, 2025
Summary
Pigeon paramyxovirus type 1 (PPMV-1), an avian virus, is causing severe human infections, including fatalities, particularly in immunocompromised individuals. New sub-genotypes are emerging globally, highlighting the need for continued surveillance and risk assessment.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Virology
- Zoonotic Diseases
- Molecular Epidemiology
Background:
- Pigeon paramyxovirus type 1 (PPMV-1) is a variant of Avian Orthoavulavirus 1 (AOAV-1), causing fatal disease in pigeons and doves.
- While typically causing mild conjunctivitis in humans, PPMV-1 has been linked to severe respiratory and neurological infections in immunocompromised individuals since 2003.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the genetic diversity and evolutionary history of PPMV-1 strains in South Africa.
- To determine the phylogenetic relationships of PPMV-1 strains associated with human infections globally.
Main Methods:
- Sequencing of PPMV-1 isolates from pigeons and doves in South Africa (2012-2024).
- Phylogenetic analyses using maximum likelihood and time-scaled methods.
- Review and re-analysis of sequence data from human infection cases.
Main Results:
- PPMV-1 sub-genotype VI.2.1.1.2.1, circulating since 2005, was detected in South Africa in 2021.
- Sub-genotype VI.2.1.1.2.2 was identified in South Africa for the first time, introduced around 2017.
- Previously unclassified viruses causing lethal human infections were identified as sub-genotypes VI.2.1.1.2.2, VI.2.1.1.1, and XXI.1.1.
Conclusions:
- PPMV-1 has caused all five recorded AOAV-1-associated human fatalities since 1953.
- Sub-genotype VI.2.1.1.2.2 was associated with three human fatalities and one severe illness.
- PPMV-1 poses a significant health risk to immunocompromised populations due to its prevalence in pigeons and doves.
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