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Lassa virus isolation from Mastomys natalensis rodents during an epidemic in Sierra Leone
Abstract:
Lassa fever is a severe febrile illness of man, first recognized in West Africa in 1969. During an epidemic in Sierra Leone, Lassa virus was isolated for the first time from wild rodents of Mastomys natalensis. A high prevalence of infected Mastomys was found in houses occupied by patients with Lassa fever. The data presented provide the first demonstration of an extra-human cycle of Lassa virus transmission and suggest that rodent control may be an effective method of limiting the disease.
Insights
Lassa fever, a severe illness, was first identified in West Africa. The Lassa virus was isolated from Mastomys natalensis rodents, revealing a potential rodent control strategy for this disease.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Epidemiology
- Zoonotic Diseases
Background:
- Lassa fever is a significant public health concern, first identified in West Africa in 1969.
- The etiological agent, Lassa virus, causes severe febrile illness in humans.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the source of Lassa virus transmission.
- To identify the animal reservoir responsible for Lassa fever outbreaks.
Main Methods:
- Isolation of Lassa virus during an epidemic in Sierra Leone.
- Investigation of rodent populations, specifically Mastomys natalensis, in proximity to human cases.
Main Results:
- Lassa virus was successfully isolated from Mastomys natalensis rodents.
- A high prevalence of infected Mastomys was observed in households inhabited by Lassa fever patients.
- This study provides the first evidence of an extra-human transmission cycle for Lassa virus.
Conclusions:
- Mastomys natalensis rodents serve as a reservoir for Lassa virus.
- Rodent control measures may be a viable strategy to limit the spread of Lassa fever.