Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Sade Oguntola
Published on 2024-02-22 04:20:14
The African Centre of Excellence for Genomics of Infectious Diseases (ACEGID), in partnership with the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research (WRAIR), has conducted a groundbreaking study revealing that non-rodent animals such as lizards, pigs, dogs, sheep, goats, and cattle serve as reservoirs for the Lassa virus (LASV) in Nigeria. This research, published in the journal Emerging Microbes & Infections, indicates that these non-rodent reservoirs have close contact with humans who have tested positive for LASV infection, suggesting their potential involvement in transmission.
The study, conducted between 2021 and 2022 in four locations in southern Nigeria with reported cases of Lassa fever, focused on screening domestic and non-domestic animals including birds, lizards, and domestic mammals such as dogs, pigs, cattle, and goats. Whole genome sequencing was performed on selected Lassa virus-positive samples to identify lineages, and animals were also screened for exposure to the virus. Lizards showed the highest positivity rate for Lassa virus, with most infected animals displaying sub-lineage 2 g of the virus. Seropositivity was highest among cattle and lowest in pigs.
The researchers emphasized the importance of understanding how these Lassa virus variants incubate, evolve, and spread to enhance predictions and responses to future Lassa fever outbreaks. Prof. Christian Happi, Director of ACEGID at Redeemer’s University, highlighted the significance of genomic characterization of Lassa virus in non-rodents, providing insight into host-virus interactions and virus evolution. These findings expand our knowledge of potential hosts for the Lassa virus, aiding in better predictions of future outbreaks.
Dr. Nelson Michael, Director of WRAIR’s Centre for Infectious Disease Research, emphasized the importance of ongoing research efforts to enhance bio-preparedness against emerging infectious disease threats in the region. Partnerships and collaborations established over decades in Nigeria are vital for conducting infectious disease research to develop preventive and therapeutic countermeasures.
Lassa fever remains endemic in Western Africa, with thousands of infections occurring annually. Understanding factors influencing Lassa virus infection based on environmental, behavioral, and genetic factors can guide governments and health entities in developing effective strategies for disease prevention, conservation, and vaccine development.
In conclusion, the study by ACEGID and WRAIR sheds light on the role of non-rodent animals as reservoirs for the Lassa virus in Nigeria. By identifying potential hosts and understanding the mechanisms of virus transmission, researchers aim to improve predictions and responses to future outbreaks, ultimately contributing to the development of effective countermeasures against Lassa fever.
Read the original article on Nigerian Tribune
