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Genetic characterization of rabies field isolates from Venezuela
C A de Mattos1, C C de Mattos, J S Smith
1Department of Veterinary Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis 95616, USA.
Journal of Clinical Microbiology
|June 1, 1996
Summary
Rabies surveillance in Venezuela identified three antigenic variants in humans and animals. Genetic analysis revealed distinct outbreaks and highlighted the importance of tracking rabies in bats for effective control programs.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Virology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Rabies remains a significant public health concern in Latin America.
- Understanding rabies virus genetic diversity is crucial for effective disease control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize rabies virus strains from Venezuela using antigenic and genetic methods.
- To identify the sources and transmission patterns of rabies outbreaks.
Main Methods:
- Monoclonal antibody reactivity against viral nucleoprotein was used for antigenic typing.
- Nucleotide substitution patterns in the nucleoprotein gene were analyzed for genetic characterization.
Main Results:
- Three antigenic variants (1, 3, and 5) were identified.
- Variant 1 was linked to dog-associated rabies, with distinct genetic signatures for regional outbreaks.
- Variant 3 was associated with vampire bats and cattle, showing high homology to other Latin American strains.
- Variant 5, primarily from domestic animals, showed close relation to bat-associated rabies, with one isolate exhibiting lower homology.
Conclusions:
- Antigenic and genetic typing are essential tools for rabies surveillance in Latin America.
- Identifying outbreak sources and wildlife reservoirs improves public health resource allocation and rabies control strategies.