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Viral hemorrhagic fevers and hantavirus infections in the Americas
T J Doyle1, R T Bryan, C J Peters
1Special Pathogens Branch, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA.
Abstract:
Several arenaviruses and hantaviruses have been isolated in the Americas during the last 4 decades. These are rodent-borne viruses responsible for the South American hemorrhagic fevers (SAHF) and hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS). Although rare, SAHF and HPS are serious illnesses with high mortality rates. Most viral isolates found in the Americas represent New World lineages of their respective viral families. Their presence in the Western hemisphere is likely ancient, their relationship with their rodent hosts is likely coevolutionary, and their recent detection forebodes the likelihood of detecting additional arena- and hantaviral species in the Americas.
Insights
New World arenaviruses and hantaviruses, causing severe South American hemorrhagic fevers (SAHF) and hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS), have been identified in the Americas. Their ancient origins and coevolution with rodents suggest more species await discovery.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Infectious Diseases
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Rodent-borne arenaviruses and hantaviruses are endemic to the Americas.
- These viruses cause severe illnesses: South American hemorrhagic fevers (SAHF) and hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS).
- SAHF and HPS, though rare, exhibit high mortality rates.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the isolation and significance of arenaviruses and hantaviruses in the Americas.
- To discuss the evolutionary context and potential for future discoveries of these viral species.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of viral isolations over the past four decades.
- Analysis of viral lineages and host-virus relationships.
Main Results:
- Multiple arenavirus and hantavirus species have been identified in the Americas.
- Most isolates belong to New World lineages, indicating ancient presence.
- Evidence suggests coevolutionary relationships between these viruses and their rodent hosts.
Conclusions:
- The detection of New World arenaviruses and hantaviruses highlights their long-standing presence in the Americas.
- The coevolutionary history implies that additional arena- and hantaviral species are likely to be discovered in the region.