Introduction Of Virus Research Articles

Application of molecular epidemiology in revealing HIV-1 transmission network and recombination patterns in Tianjin, China.

Using a comprehensive molecular epidemiological approach, we characterized the transmission dynamics of HIV-1 among the MSM population in Tianjin, China. Our findings revealed that 38.56% (386/1001) of individuals clustered across 109 molecular transmission clusters (TCs), with MSM aged 50 and below being the group most commonly transmitting HIV-1. Among the identified TCs, CRF01_AE predominated, followed by CRF07_BC. Notably, CRF07_BC demonstrated a higher propensity for forming large clusters compared to CRF01_AE. Birth-death skyline analyses of the two largest clusters indicated that the HIV/AIDS transmission may be at a critical point, nearly all had Re approximately 1 by now. A retrospective analysis revealed that the rapid expansion of these large clusters was primarily driven by the introduction of viruses in 2021, highlighting the crucial importance of continuous molecular surveillance in identifying newly emerging high-risk transmission chains and adapting measures to address evolving epidemic dynamics. Furthermore, we detected the transmission of drug-resistant mutations (DRMs) within the TCs, particularly in the CRF07_BC clusters (K103N, Y181C, and K101E) and CRF01_AE clusters (P225H and K219R), emphasizing the importance of monitoring to support the continued efficacy of first-line therapies and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). Recombination analyses indicated that complex recombinant patterns, associated with increased amino acid variability, could confer adaptive traits to the viruses, potentially providing a competitive advantage in certain host populations or regions. Our study highlights the potential of integrating molecular epidemiological and phylodynamic approaches to inform targeted interventions.

Unveiling the molecular epidemiology of canine distemper virus in Namibia: An expected pathogen showing an unexpected origin

ObjectiveCanine distemper virus (CDV) is a highly infectious virus that represents a threat for domestic dogs and several wild species. Despite recognized in several African countries, current knowledge of its molecular epidemiology is scarce and poorly updated. DesignTwenty-two hemagglutinin sequences, obtained from symptomatic Namibian dogs from 2020 to 2023, were analysed through phylogenetic and phylodynamic analysis to characterize the local CDV epidemiology and contextualize it in the international scenario. ResultsTwo unrelated clades were identified, including strains sampled in different Namibian towns, in the absence of a strong geographical clustering. The ancestors of the two clades were estimated to have originated from South America, likely Brazil, and South Africa, approximately in 2000 and 2006, respectively. While the introduction from South Africa was predictable, the introduction from Brazil was unexpected. The mediation of other African countries, particularly Angola, appears to be the most likely importation pathway. ConclusionsThe occurrence of multiple introduction events, likely originating from cross-border illegal animal trade between African countries, and the absence of any geographical clustering within Namibian regions, suggest a need for further investigation into its spreading pattern, as well as improved biosecurity measures to limit foreign viral introduction into the country.

Human mobility patterns in Brazil to inform sampling sites for early pathogen detection and routes of spread: a network modelling and validation study

Detecting and foreseeing pathogen dispersion is crucial in preventing widespread disease transmission. Human mobility is a fundamental issue in human transmission of infectious agents. Through a mobility data-driven approach, we aimed to identify municipalities in Brazil that could comprise an advanced sentinel network, allowing for early detection of circulating pathogens and their associated transmission routes. In this modelling and validation study, we compiled a comprehensive dataset on intercity mobility spanning air, road, and waterway transport from the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (2016 data), National Transport Confederation (2022), and National Civil Aviation Agency (2017-23). We constructed a graph-based representation of Brazil's mobility network. The Ford-Fulkerson algorithm was used to rank the 5570 Brazilian cities according to their suitability as sentinel locations, allowing us to predict the most suitable locations for early detection and to track the most likely trajectory of a newly emerged pathogen. We also obtained SARS-CoV-2 genetic data from Brazilian municipalities during the early stage (Feb 25-April 30, 2020) of the virus's introduction and the gamma (P.1) variant emergence in Manaus (Jan 6-March 1, 2021), for the purposes of model validation. We found that flights alone transported 79·9 million (95% CI 58·3-101·4 million) passengers annually within Brazil during 2017-22, with seasonal peaks occurring in late spring and summer, and road and river networks had a maximum capacity of 78·3 million passengers weekly in 2016. By analysing the 7 746 479 most probable paths originating from source nodes, we found that 3857 cities fully cover the mobility pattern of all 5570 cities in Brazil, 557 (10·0%) of which cover 6 313 380 (81·5%) of the mobility patterns in our study. By strategically incorporating mobility patterns into Brazil's existing influenza-like illness surveillance network (ie, by switching the location of 111 of 199 sentinel sites to different municipalities), our model predicted that mobility coverage would have a 33·6% improvement from 4 059 155 (52·4%) mobility patterns to 5 422 535 (70·0%) without expanding the number of sentinel sites. Our findings are validated with genomic data collected during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic period. Our model accurately mapped 22 (51%) of 43 clade 1-affected cities and 28 (60%) of 47 clade 2-affected cities spread from São Paulo city, and 20 (49%) of 41 clade 1-affected cities and 28 (58%) of 48 clade 2-affected cities spread from Rio de Janeiro city, Feb 25-April 30, 2020. Additionally, 224 (73%) of the 307 suggested early-detection locations for pathogens emerging in Manaus corresponded with the first cities affected by the transmission of the gamma variant, Jan 6-16, 2021. By providing essential clues for effective pathogen surveillance, our results have the potential to inform public health policy and improve future pandemic response efforts. Our results unlock the potential of designing country-wide clinical sample collection networks with mobility data-informed approaches, an innovative practice that can improve current surveillance systems. Rockefeller Foundation.

A novel hypovirulence-associated Hadaka virus 1 (HadV1-LA6) in Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense.

Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense (Foc) poses a significant threat to banana crops as a lethal fungal pathogen. The global spread of Foc underscores the formidable challenges associated with traditional management methods in combating this pathogen. This study delves into the hypovirulence-associated mycovirus in Foc. From Foc strain LA6, we isolated and characterized a novel member of the Hadakaviridae family, named Hadaka virus 1 strain LA6 (HadV1-LA6). HadV1-LA6 comprises 10 genomic RNA segments, with RNA1 to RNA7 sharing 80.9%-95.0% amino acid sequence identity with known HadV1-7n, while RNA8 to RNA10 display significantly lower identity. HadV1-LA6 demonstrates horizontal transmission capabilities in an all-or-none fashion between different Foc strains via coculturing. Phenotypic comparisons highlight that HadV1-LA6 significantly reduces the growth rates of its host fungus under cell wall stress and oxidative stress conditions. Importantly, HadV1-LA6 attenuates Foc's virulence in detached leaves and banana plants. This study represents the first introduction of a novel hypovirulence-associated Hadaka virus 1 in Foc.IMPORTANCEFusarium wilt of banana (FWB) is a severe fungal disease caused by soil-borne Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense (Foc). Among various strategies, biocontrol emerges as a safe, ecologically friendly, and cost-effective approach to managing FWB. In this study, we focus on exploring the potential of a novel hypovirulent member of hadakavirid, HadV1-LA6. Previous reports suggest that HadV1 shows no apparent effect on the host. However, through phenotypic assessments, we demonstrate that HadV1-LA6 significantly impedes the growth rates of its host fungus under stress conditions. More importantly, HadV1-LA6 exhibits a remarkable capacity to attenuate Foc's virulence in detached leaves and banana plants. Furthermore, HadV1-LA6 could be horizontally transmitted between different Foc strains, presenting a promising resource for revealing the molecular mechanism of the interaction between Hadaka virus 1 and its host.

Quantitative risk assessment for the introduction of bluetongue virus into mainland Europe by long-distance wind dispersal of Culicoides spp.: A case study from Sardinia.

Europe faces regular introductions and reintroductions of bluetongue virus (BTV) serotypes, most recently exemplified by the incursion of serotype 3 in the Netherlands. Although the long-distance wind dispersal of the disease vector, Culicoides spp., is recognized as a virus introduction pathway, it remains understudied in risk assessments. A Quantitative Risk Assessment framework was developed to estimate the risk of BTV-3 incursion into mainland Europe from Sardinia, where the virus has been present since 2018. We used an atmospheric transport model (HYbrid Single-Particle Lagrangian Integrated Trajectory) to infer the probability of airborne dispersion of the insect vector. Epidemiological disease parameters quantified the virus prevalence in vector population in Sardinia and its potential first transmission after introduction in a new area. When assuming a 24h maximal flight duration, the risk of BTV introduction from Sardinia is limited to the Mediterranean Basin, mainly affecting the southwestern area of the Italian Peninsula, Sicily, Malta, and Corsica. The risk extends to the northern and central parts of Italy, Balearic archipelago, and mainland France and Spain, mostly when maximal flight duration is longer than 24h. Additional knowledge on vector flight conditions and Obsoletus complex-specific parameters could improve the robustness of the model. Providing both spatial and temporal insights into BTV introduction risks, our framework is a key tool to guide global surveillance and preparedness against epizootics.

A qualitative risk assessment of imports of animal feed as a potential pathway for Aujeszky's disease virus incursion

Aujeszky's disease (AD) is a highly contagious disease of pigs that primarily transmits by respiratory and oral routes. Evidence from recent outbreaks suggests that some swine viruses can survive in contaminated animal feed, thus posing a risk of entry via imports from other countries. To this end, a qualitative risk assessment was undertaken to determine the risk of introduction of AD virus (ADV) and infection of pigs via this route to determine if contaminated animal feed is a viable pathway for the spread of ADV. The feed categories investigated were soya bean/meal/oilcake, pet food, choline/lysine and spray dried porcine plasma. These were chosen based on their use in animal feed and the available data on viral contamination. The overall probability of an animal becoming infected from the importation of feed contaminated with ADV was estimated as Negligible or Very Low for all feed categories. The uncertainty associated with the estimates was assessed as Medium, due to the lack of data around the mechanisms that ADV could contaminate feedstuffs and for infection of susceptible animals from ADV infected feed.

Migratory connectivity of Blue-winged Teal: risk implications for avian influenza virus introduction to Cuba

Migratory connectivity of Blue-winged Teal: risk implications for avian influenza virus introduction to Cuba

Avian influenza viruses in New Zealand wild birds, with an emphasis on subtypes H5 and H7: Their distinctive epidemiology and genomic properties.

The rapid spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) A (H5N1) viruses in Southeast Asia in 2004 prompted the New Zealand Ministry for Primary Industries to expand its avian influenza surveillance in wild birds. A total of 18,693 birds were sampled between 2004 and 2020, including migratory shorebirds (in 2004-2009), other coastal species (in 2009-2010), and resident waterfowl (in 2004-2020). No avian influenza viruses (AIVs) were isolated from cloacal or oropharyngeal samples from migratory shorebirds or resident coastal species. Two samples from red knots (Calidris canutus) tested positive by influenza A RT-qPCR, but virus could not be isolated and no further characterization could be undertaken. In contrast, 6179 samples from 15,740 mallards (Anas platyrhynchos) tested positive by influenza A RT-qPCR. Of these, 344 were positive for H5 and 51 for H7. All H5 and H7 viruses detected were of low pathogenicity confirmed by a lack of multiple basic amino acids at the hemagglutinin (HA) cleavage site. Twenty H5 viruses (six different neuraminidase [NA] subtypes) and 10 H7 viruses (two different NA subtypes) were propagated and characterized genetically. From H5- or H7-negative samples that tested positive by influenza A RT-qPCR, 326 AIVs were isolated, representing 41 HA/NA combinations. The most frequently isolated subtypes were H4N6, H3N8, H3N2, and H10N3. Multivariable logistic regression analysis of the relations between the location and year of sampling, and presence of AIV in individual waterfowl showed that the AIV risk at a given location varied from year to year. The H5 and H7 isolates both formed monophyletic HA groups. The H5 viruses were most closely related to North American lineages, whereas the H7 viruses formed a sister cluster relationship with wild bird viruses of the Eurasian and Australian lineages. Bayesian analysis indicates that the H5 and H7 viruses have circulated in resident mallards in New Zealand for some time. Correspondingly, we found limited evidence of influenza viruses in the major migratory bird populations visiting New Zealand. Findings suggest a low probability of introduction of HPAI viruses via long-distance bird migration and a unique epidemiology of AIV in New Zealand.

Oropouche Virus Exposure in Febrile Patients during Chikungunya Virus Introduction in the State of Amapá, Amazon Region, Brazil.

Oropouche orthobunyavirus (OROV) is an arbovirus transmitted by midges that has been involved in outbreaks throughout Central and South America. In Brazil, human cases have been historically concentrated in the northern region of the country. Oropouche fever in humans range from mild clinical signs to rare neurological events, and is considered a neglected tropical disease in Brazil. Due to the clinical similarities to other arboviruses, such as chikungunya and dengue viruses, OROV infections are likely to be underreported. Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) cases in Brazil were first recognized in 2014 in the states of Amapá and Bahia in the north and northeast regions, respectively. Both OROV and CHIKV cause nonspecific symptoms, making clinical diagnosis difficult in a scenario of arbovirus cocirculation. Aiming to investigate OROV transmission during the CHIKV introduction in the state of Amapá located in the Brazilian Amazon, we conducted a retrospective molecular (RT-qPCR) and serological investigation in febrile cases (N = 166) collected between August 2014 and May 2015. All acute serum samples were negative for OROV RNA using RT-qPCR. However, neutralizing antibodies for OROV were detected using a plaque reduction neutralization test (PRNT90) in 10.24% (17/166) of the patients, with neutralizing antibody titers ranging from 20 to ≥640, suggesting the previous exposure of patients to OROV. Regarding CHIKV, recent exposure was confirmed by the detection of CHIKV RNA in 20.25% (33/163) of the patients and by the detection of anti-CHIKV IgM in 28.57% (44/154) of the patients. The additional detection of anti-CHIKV IgG in 12.58% (19/151) of the febrile patients suggests that some individuals had been previously exposed to CHIKV. Whether the OROV exposure reported here occurred prior or during the CHIKV circulation in Amapá, is unknown, but because those arboviral infections share similar clinical signs and symptoms, a silent circulation of enzootic arboviruses during the introduction of exotic arboviruses may occur, and highlights the importance of syndromic cases' surveillance to arboviruses in Brazil.

Characterizing the domestic-wild bird interface through camera traps in an area at risk for avian influenza introduction in Northern Italy

Direct or indirect interactions between sympatric wildlife and poultry can lead to interspecies disease transmission. Particularly, avian influenza (AI) is a viral epidemic disease for which the poultry-wild bird interface shapes the risks of new viral introductions into poultry holdings. Given this background, the study hereby presented aimed to identify wild bird species in poultry house surroundings and characterize the spatiotemporal patterns of these visits. Eight camera traps were deployed for a year (January to December 2021) in three commercial chicken layer farms, including free-range and barn-type setups, located in a densely populated poultry area in Northern Italy at high risk for AI introduction via wild birds. Camera traps’ positions were chosen based on wildlife signs identified during preliminary visits to the establishments studied. Various methods, including time series analysis, correspondence analysis, and generalized linear models, were employed to analyze the daily wild bird visits. A total of 1,958 camera trap days yielded 5,978 videos of wild birds from 27 different species and 16 taxonomic families. The animals were predominantly engaged in foraging activities nearby poultry houses. Eurasian magpies (Pica pica), ring-necked pheasants (Phasianus colchicus) and Eurasian collared doves (Streptopelia decaocto) were the most frequent visitors. Mallards (Anas platyrhynchos), an AI reservoir species, were observed only in a farm located next to a fishing sport lake. Time series analysis indicated that wild bird visits increased during spring and winter. Farm and camera trap location also influenced visit frequencies. Overall, the results highlighted specific species that could be prioritized for future AI epidemiological surveys. However, further research is required to assess their susceptibility and infectivity to currently circulating AI viruses, essential for identifying novel bridge hosts.

High-throughput sequencing for plant virology diagnostics and its potential in plant health certification

High-throughput sequencing (HTS) technologies have revolutionized plant virology through simultaneous detection of mixed viral infections. HTS advances have uncovered and improved understanding of virus biology, ecology, and evolution which is vital for viral disease management. Plant viruses continue to threaten global agricultural productivity and strict quarantine measures are essential to prevent the introduction and spread of virulent viruses around the world. The gradual decrease in HTS operational costs, including improved computational systems and automation through robotics, has facilitated the adoption of this tool for plant diagnostics, including its use in surveillance and quarantine programs. However, the speed of technology advancements and distinct HTS chemistries, laboratory procedures, data management, and bioinformatic analyses have proven challenging. In addition, the lack of viral species reference sequences, compared with the estimated number of distinct viral taxa, makes classification and identification of novel viruses difficult. There is a need for standardized HTS testing, especially within plant health programs. In this review, we consider the application of HTS in plant virology, explore the technical challenges faced and the opportunities for HTS in plant health certification. We propose standards for overcoming current barriers and for ensuring reliable and reproducible results. These efforts will impact global plant health by reducing the risk of introduction and the spread of damaging novel viruses.

Epidemiological Risk Factors and Modelling Approaches for Risk Assessment of Lumpy Skin Disease Virus Introduction and Spread: Methodological Review and Implications for Risk-Based Surveillance in Australia

Lumpy skin disease (LSD) is a vector-borne infection caused by the poxvirus lumpy skin disease virus (LSDV) and is a serious disease of cattle, water buffalo, and banteng. While the disease has never occurred in Australia, it is regarded as a growing threat to the Australian cattle industry as there is on-going spread of the disease throughout Asia. The development of geospatial decision support tools, such as spatial epidemiological modelling, may assist in assessing areas at greater risk of this threat. To guide the design of disease modelling approaches to support future risk-based surveillance, existing LSDV epidemiological models need to be evaluated. In this study, we performed a literature review to evaluate existing LSDV epidemiological models, identify key risk factors for introduction and spread of LSDV, and consider previously adopted control strategies. The PRISMA guidelines were used to establish the processes for article selection and information extraction, and the PICO process was used to formulate search terms. From studies that met our inclusion criteria, we extracted information on LSDV epidemiological model structure and parameterisation, risk factors for LSDV transmission and spread, and biosecurity control strategies. The literature search retrieved a total of 402 articles from four databases, of which 68 were identified for inclusion in this review following screening. Of the 68 articles reviewed, 47 explored risk factors associated with LSDV transmission and spread, four explored risk factors of LSDV introduction, four explored existing surveillance strategies in LSD-free countries, and 14 presented epidemiological models. Our findings indicate that there are various risk factors for LSDV transmission in LSD endemic countries, including long-distance airborne movement of infected vectors such as stable flies and cattle movement between countries over land borders. Key risk factors for LSDV spread in LSD endemic countries include physical environmental characteristics, weather conditions, and population distributions of livestock and vectors. Our results indicate that while a variety of modelling studies have been conducted, the majority of studies experimentally explored LSD transmission mechanisms in vectors and cattle. Spatial and spatio-temporal models have primarily been developed for LSD endemic countries and focus on the spread of the disease in terms of environmental factors in relation to previous LSD events. There were very few studies on LSD-free countries, and these only focussed on risk of LSD introduction through specific entry pathways. This review did not identify any literature exploring the risk of spread of LSDV following introduction in LSD-free countries or geospatial modelling of the suitability of LSD-free countries for LSDV incursions. In conjunction with the risk parameters and models described in the identified literature, there is need to consider a wide range of risk factors specific to Australia to inform the design of risk-based surveillance for LSD in Australia.

Phylogeography and gene pool analysis of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 viruses reported in India from 2006 to 2021.

India has reported highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 virus outbreaks since 2006, with the first human case reported in 2021. These included viruses belonging to the clades 2.2, 2.2.2, 2.2.2.1, 2.3.2.1a, and 2.3.2.1c. There are currently no data on the gene pool of HPAI H5N1 viruses in India. Molecular clock and phylogeography analysis of the HA and NA genes; and phylogenetic analysis of the internal genes of H5N1 viruses from India were carried out. Sequences reported from 2006 to 2015; and sequences from 2021 that were available in online databases were used in the analysis. Five separate introductions of H5N1 viruses into India were observed, via IndonesiaorKorea (2002), Bangladesh (2009), Bhutan (2010), and China (2013, 2018) (clades 2.2, 2.2.2, 2.2.2.1, 2.3.2.1a, 2.3.2.1c, and 2.3.4.4b). Phylogenetic analysis revealed eight reassortant genotypes. The H5N1 virus isolated from the human case showed a unique reassortant genotype. Amino acid markers associated with adaptation to mammals were also present. This is the first report of the spatio-temporal origins and gene pool analysis of H5N1 viruses from India, highlighting the need for increased molecular surveillance.

Multiple introductions of monkeypox virus to Ireland during the international mpox outbreak, May 2022 to October 2023.

BackgroundMpox, caused by monkeypox virus (MPXV), was considered a rare zoonotic disease before May 2022, when a global epidemic of cases in non-endemic countries led to the declaration of a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. Cases of mpox in Ireland, a country without previous mpox reports, could reflect extended local transmission or multiple epidemiological introductions.AimTo elucidate the origins and molecular characteristics of MPXV circulating in Ireland between May 2022 and October 2023.MethodsWhole genome sequencing of MPXV from 75% of all Irish mpox cases (182/242) was performed and compared to sequences retrieved from public databases (n = 3,362). Bayesian approaches were used to infer divergence time between sequences from different subclades and evaluate putative importation events from other countries.ResultsOf 242 detected mpox cases, 99% were males (median age: 35 years; range: 15-60). All 182 analysed genomes were assigned to Clade IIb and, presence of 12 distinguishable subclades suggests multiple introductions into Ireland. Estimation of time to divergence of subclades further supports the hypothesis for multiple importation events from numerous countries, indicative of extended and sustained international spread of mpox. Further analysis of sequences revealed that 92% of nucleotide mutations were from cytosine to thymine (or from guanine to adenine), leading to a high number of non-synonymous mutations across subclades; mutations associated with tecovirimat resistance were not observed.ConclusionWe provide insights into the international transmission dynamics supporting multiple introductions of MPXV into Ireland. Such information supported the implementation of evidence-informed public health control measures.

Assessing immune evasion potential and vaccine suitability of a feline panleukopenia virus strain

Since the introduction of the feline panleukopenia virus (FPV) vaccine in China in 2011, it has played a crucial role in safeguarding the health of numerous pet cats by preventing FPV infections. However, an observed rise in FPV infections among cats previously vaccinated has prompted our investigation. Our laboratory has identified a specific FPV isolate, FPV-251, which raises concerns about its potential to evade the immune response. To validate this hypothesis, we conducted a correlational study on FPV-251. Ten sera samples were collected from ten cats two months after receiving the vaccine three times. These samples were prepared in the laboratory to assess their ability to neutralize FPV-251. Results indicated that the neutralization titers of the 10 sera ranged from 1:313.7 to 1:1051.0, with an average titer of 1:627.4. Considering the diversity and complexity of clinical practice, we expanded our study to include 86 sera samples collected from cats at the clinic after three-time immunizations. Among these, 8 out of 43 sera collected after one year post three-time immunizations and 5 out of 43 sera collected within one year post three-time immunizations exhibited a neutralization index (NI) of less than 50 against FPV-251. Despite its potential immune evasion capabilities, immunization with inactivated FPV-251 demonstrated effectiveness in providing substantial protection for cats. This was evident from the high levels of sera antibodies against FPV-251 in cats with FPV-251 immunization, as well as their ability to survive and maintain good health after being challenged with FPV-251. Furthermore, sera antibodies from immunized cats displayed the ability to neutralize the other five FPV isolates, indicating a robust cross-protection capacity of the FPV-251 vaccine. Our research findings suggest that although FPV-251 may exhibit certain immune evasion capabilities, it holds significant potential for development into a vaccine to protect pet cats from FPV infection.

Impacts of ground ultra-low volume adulticide applications on Culex pipiens and Culex restuans (Diptera: Culicidae) abundance, age structure, and West Nile virus infection in Cook County, Illinois.

Since the introduction of West Nile virus (WNV) to the United States over 20 years ago, thousands of cases of human disease and death have been reported. Yearly seasonal outbreaks continue to persist, and the city and suburbs of Chicago, Illinois, is considered a "hot spot" for WNV activity. To interrupt WNV transmission, ground ultra-low volume (ULV) adulticide applications are regularly used to reduce Culex pipiens L. and Culex restuans Theobold (Diptera: Culicidae) abundance and infection. The real-world effectiveness of adulticide applications has not been comprehensively assessed, and prior studies, including our own investigation, have yielded inconclusive or conflicting results. Therefore, we expanded our prior work and evaluated the effects of 5 sequential weekly truck-mounted ULV adulticide applications in large residential areas in the northern suburbs of Chicago, Illinois, in 2019 and 2020. Each day, Cx. pipiens and Cx. restuans host-seeking and gravid mosquitoes were collected to assess abundance, age structure, and WNV infection rates. Adulticide applications resulted in significant reductions of both host-seeking and gravid abundance on the night of treatment. The reduction in host-seeking mosquitoes was followed by a reduction in gravid mosquitoes trapped 3 and 4 days after adulticide application and an increase in the proportion of nulliparous mosquitoes. WNV infection rates were significantly reduced in treatment sites as compared to untreated sites when infection rates were higher in 2020. This large-scale study provides comprehensive evidence that ground ULV adulticide applications are an effective tool in an integrated mosquito management program for combating WNV vectors and infection risk.

Continuous Introduction of H5 High Pathogenicity Avian Influenza Viruses in Hokkaido, Japan: Characterization of Viruses Isolated in Winter 2022–2023 and Early Winter 2023–2024

High pathogenicity avian influenza (HPAI) has impacted poultry and wild birds globally. The number of H5 HPAI virus (HPAIV) infection cases in wild birds in Hokkaido (Northern Japan) was high in the last two seasons, contributing to virus spillover to resident birds and poultry. Therefore, H5 HPAIVs in birds and mammals in Hokkaido in winter 2022–2023 and 2023–2024 were monitored and viruses were phylogenetically, antigenically, and pathogenetically characterized. Thirty HPAIV isolates were subtyped and pathotyped by sequencing the hemagglutinin (HA) gene of viruses. Phylogenetic analysis of the HA gene revealed that all isolated HPAIVs were categorized into clade 2.3.4.4b and divided into three groups (G2b, G2c, and G2d). Most isolates belonging to subgroup G2d clustered with isolates in winter 2021–2022 in Hokkaido. The other isolates were categorized into two subgroups, G2b and G2c, mainly composed of isolates in Honshu Island in winter 2021–2022 and 2022–2023, respectively. Two H5 HPAIVs isolated in Eastern Russia in spring and autumn 2022 were genetically close to most Hokkaido isolates (G2d), and a virus isolated in Hokkaido in November 2023 was also grouped in subgroup G2d. Further analysis of all eight gene segments identified six types of gene constellations. Cross-hemagglutination inhibition test indicated that the antigenicity of H5 HPAIVs isolated in the last several seasons was similar within them but slightly different from that in the 2010s. Three chicken breeds were intranasally challenged with four representative isolates to assess their pathogenicity. All chickens except one broiler chicken were dead until 5-day postchallenge with different pathogenicity of these viruses. The pathogenicity of one HPAIV strain was significantly lower in broiler chickens than in layer chickens. The mixture of multiple characteristics of HPAIVs in Hokkaido was confirmed by bird migration routes. Thus, many HPAIVs can be brought and scattered anywhere on Earth.

Biosecurity measures for the prevention of African swine fever on German pig farms: comparison of farmers’ own appraisals and external veterinary experts’ evaluations

BackgroundSince its first introduction into the German wild boar population in 2020, African swine fever (ASF) has been spreading slowly from the eastern border westwards and has been introduced into eight domestic pig farms thus far. The European Food Safety Authority has named deficits in farm biosecurity and increased human activity as major risk factors for the introduction of the ASF virus into pig farms. Studies have shown that pig farms in Germany generally have a high level of biosecurity. However, veterinary practitioners and policy-makers have expressed concerns that not all pig farmers are appropriately prepared to deal with the threat of ASF. This study aimed to evaluate the level of biosecurity on pig farms in Lower Saxony and explore the reasons for deficits in the implementation of biosecurity measures. For this purpose, pig farmers were interviewed in open structured face-to-face interviews about their perception of ASF and biosecurity, and the implemented measures on their farms were assessed with a checklist. In the data analysis, the farmers’ answers and the results of the biosecurity check were compared to gain further insights into the factors influencing the implementation of biosecurity measures on the farms.ResultsThe biosecurity check showed that on most farms, a high level of biosecurity had been implemented. Nevertheless, deficits were found concerning the fences and the delimitation of clean and dirty areas on farm grounds and in the anteroom. Overall, the farmers were well informed about ASF and had a realistic perception of their own biosecurity. They considered the farm layout, financial means and practicality of hygiene measures to be the main barriers to implementing biosecurity measures against ASF. However, the results also suggested that farmers’ attitudes and legal regulations were major influencing factors.ConclusionThe results indicated a high level of biosecurity against ASF on most pig farms and a realistic perception of their own biosecurity by the farmers. Current knowledge transfer and information should focus on building upon the farmers’ own motivation and expertise and supporting them to put existing knowledge into practice.

Phylogenetic analysis reveals a new introduction of Yellow Fever virus in São Paulo State, Brazil, 2023

Yellow Fever (YF) is a viral arbovirosis of Public Health importance. In Brazil, surveillance is focused mainly on detecting epizootic events of Platyrrhini. Herein, we compared the detection and phylogenetic analysis of YF virus in two neotropical primates (NTP), a Callithrix detected in the previous epidemic period (2016-2020), and a Callicebus nigrifons, showing a new introduction of YF in 2023. This paper illustrates the importance of joint actions of laboratory and field teams to ensure quick response to Public Health emergencies, such as the intensification of vaccination of susceptible human populations.

'I was able to make a better decision about my health.' Wāhine experiences of colposcopy at a marae-based health clinic: A qualitative study.

Equitable access to colposcopy services is required if we are to realise the benefit of the introduction of human papilloma virus (HPV) screening in Aotearoa New Zealand. We piloted a community colposcopy clinic, co-located at an urban marae health clinic. To describe the experiences of wāhine (women) attending the marae-based colposcopy clinic. An in-depth reflexive thematic analysis from 34 people's accounts was undertaken. Five themes were identified from the experiences of wāhine attending the clinic. Three themes related to how having a local clinic supported access: everyone was welcoming and friendly, the environment was familiar and non-clinical and the clinic was accessible. The fourth theme related to how this contributed to agency. A fifth theme relates to wāhine views about informing the ongoing provision of colposcopy services. The experiences reflected the principles and values practised at the marae health clinic. Wāhine described feeling cared for as soon as they entered the clinic. As the clinic was local, and for some based at their marae, it was a known space where they knew the experience would be safe. Whānau were welcome with spaces for children to play. Being local meant there were fewer logistics to manage, all of which supported access. Prioritising wāhine through the provision of culturally safe and accessible colposcopy is feasible. It has the potential to contribute to the elimination of cervical cancer in Aotearoa, New Zealand.