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13 pages, 952 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Postural Abnormalities in Children with Congenital Zika Syndrome-Related Neurological and Visual Impairment

by Raíne Borba, Amanda Rodrigues, Camila V. Ventura, Cláudia Marques, Lucélia Nóbrega, Taciana Higino, Dalmir Santos, Juliana Sallum and Liana O. Ventura

Viruses 2024, 16(12), 1959; https://doi.org/10.3390/v16121959 - 20 Dec 2024

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Abstract

Deformities, body asymmetries, and muscle contractures are common consequences of atypical postural patterns in children with c ongenital Zika syndrome (CZS). This study aimed to evaluate the posture of children with CZS, considering their neurological and visual impairments. Ophthalmological assessment included binocular best-corrected [...] Read more.

Deformities, body asymmetries, and muscle contractures are common consequences of atypical postural patterns in children with c ongenital Zika syndrome (CZS). This study aimed to evaluate the posture of children with CZS, considering their neurological and visual impairments. Ophthalmological assessment included binocular best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) using Teller Acuity Cards II (TAC II) and an ocular motility evaluation. Postural alignment was measured using the PhysioCode Posture (PCP) app. Twenty-four children with CZS (12 [50.0%] female) were included, with a mean age of 6.8 ± 0.7 years (range, 4.0–7.0 years). The majority (79.2% [19/24]) had microcephaly at birth. Visual impairment was detected in 95.2% (20/21) of the children, with 85.0% (17/20) classified as moderate, severe, or blind. Shoulder asymmetry was observed in 95.8% (23/24) of participants, and 75.0% (18/24) presented abnormal postural alignment of the head and hips. Additionally, spinal deviations were found in 41.7% (10/24) of the children. All children with CZS exhibited asymmetries and improper postural patterns, which may result from a combination of neurological and visual impairments as well as environmental factors. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mosquito-Borne Encephalitis Viruses)

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12 pages, 2439 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis of Memory Antibody Responses in Individuals with Zika-Associated Guillain–Barré Syndrome

by Michelle Premazzi Papa, Grace Mantus, Kareem Kabra, Carlos Herrera Gomez, Adam Ward, Liliana Encinales, Andres Cadena, Aileen Chang and Rebecca M. Lynch

Viruses 2024, 16(11), 1704; https://doi.org/10.3390/v16111704 - 30 Oct 2024

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Abstract

The Zika virus (ZIKV) was responsible for a major outbreak in 2015 in the Americas. Infections were associated with increased cases of microcephaly in infants and Guillain–Barré Syndrome (GBS) in adults. Our group previously demonstrated that Zika-associated GBS correlated with the increased neutralization [...] Read more.

The Zika virus (ZIKV) was responsible for a major outbreak in 2015 in the Americas. Infections were associated with increased cases of microcephaly in infants and Guillain–Barré Syndrome (GBS) in adults. Our group previously demonstrated that Zika-associated GBS correlated with the increased neutralization of ZIKV and DENV2, but the antibody specificity was not analyzed. Here, we generated reporter virus particles (RVPs) of ZIKV with specific-point mutations that allowed us to investigate the specificity of circulating plasma antibodies at two different timepoints from individuals with Zika-associated GBS. We found that neutralizing antibody titers to ZIKV waned between one and two years post-ZIKV infection in GBS-negative but not GBS-positive individuals. Interestingly, plasma neutralization by GBS-negative individuals was more sensitive to a mutation at position N154A than plasma from GBS-positive individuals. To determine if waning was associated with different levels of B-cell activation at the time of infection, pro-inflammatory cytokines were measured, but no differences were observed in people with or without GBS. These data suggest subtle differences between GBS-positive and-negative individuals’ circulating antibodies, where antibodies from GBS-positive individuals may target different epitopes and remain in circulation longer as compared to GBS-negative individuals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mosquito-Borne Encephalitis Viruses)

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17 pages, 3420 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Outbreak of Western Equine Encephalitis Virus Infection Associated with Neurological Disease in Horses Following a Nearly 40-Year Intermission Period in Argentina

by María Aldana Vissani, Florencia Alamos, María Silvia Tordoya, Leonardo Minatel, Juan Manuel Schammas, María José Dus Santos, Karina Trono, María E. Barrandeguy, Udeni B. R. Balasuriya and Mariano Carossino

Viruses 2024, 16(10), 1594; https://doi.org/10.3390/v16101594 - 10 Oct 2024

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Abstract

Western equine encephalitis virus (WEEV) is a mosquito-borne arbovirus (genus Alphavirus, family Togaviridae) that has re-emerged in South America in late 2023, causing severe disease in both horses and humans after a nearly 40-year intermission period. We here describe the virological, [...] Read more.

Western equine encephalitis virus (WEEV) is a mosquito-borne arbovirus (genus Alphavirus, family Togaviridae) that has re-emerged in South America in late 2023, causing severe disease in both horses and humans after a nearly 40-year intermission period. We here describe the virological, serological, pathological, and molecular features of WEEV infection in horses during the 2023–2024 outbreak in Argentina. WEEV-infected horses developed neurological signs with mild to severe encephalitis associated with minimal to abundant WEEV-infected cells, as demonstrated by WEEV-specific in situ hybridization. The distribution of viral RNA was multifocal, with predominance within neuronal bodies, neuronal processes, and glial cells in the medulla oblongata and thalamic regions. Phylogenetic analysis of partial nsP4 sequences from three viral isolates obtained from three different provinces of Argentina support grouping with other temporally current WEEV strains from Uruguay and Brazil under a recently proposed novel lineage. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mosquito-Borne Encephalitis Viruses)

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12 pages, 2281 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Role of Wild Boar as Host of Japanese Encephalitis Virus in the Absence of Domestic Pigs

by Fuka Kikuchi, Ai Hayashi, Karen Yamada, Yusuke Matsui, Reiko Shimbashi, Yuji Noguchi, Kazunori Tachibana, Tetsuya Mizutani, Akihiko Tokaji, Akira Yoshikawa, Motoki Ihara, Kazunori Oishi, Hajime Kamiya, Satoru Arai and Motoi Suzuki

Viruses 2024, 16(8), 1273; https://doi.org/10.3390/v16081273 - 9 Aug 2024

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Abstract

Pigs are the most common amplifying hosts of the Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV). In 2016, four residents on Tsushima Island who did not own pig farms were diagnosed with JE. Therefore, a serosurvey was conducted to estimate the risk and seroprevalence of JEV [...] Read more.

Pigs are the most common amplifying hosts of the Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV). In 2016, four residents on Tsushima Island who did not own pig farms were diagnosed with JE. Therefore, a serosurvey was conducted to estimate the risk and seroprevalence of JEV after the outbreak. Sera collected from 560 Tsushima Island residents between January and September 2017 were tested for neutralizing antibodies against JEV strains JaGAr01 (genotype 3) and Muar (genotype 5). Sera collected from six wild boars between June and July 2022 were tested. The seroprevalence rates of neutralizing antibodies against JaGAr01 and Muar were 38.8% and 24.6%, respectively. High anti-JEV neutralizing antibody titers of ≥320 were identified in 16 residents, including 3 younger than 6 years with prior JEV vaccination, 2 in their 40s, and 11 older than 70. However, no anti-JEV-specific IgM was detected. Residents who engaged in outdoor activities had higher anti-JEV antibody titers. Sera from wild boars were negative for JEV RNA, but four of six samples contained neutralizing antibodies against JEV. Therefore, JEV transmission continues on Tsushima Island, even in the absence of pig farms, and wild boars might serve as the amplifying hosts. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mosquito-Borne Encephalitis Viruses)

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14 pages, 2219 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Re-Emergence of Rift Valley Fever Virus Lineage H in Senegal in 2022: In Vitro Characterization and Impact on Its Global Emergence in West Africa

by Ousseynou Sene, Samba Niang Sagne, Ndeye Sakha Bob, Moundhir Mhamadi, Idrissa Dieng, Aboubacry Gaye, Haoua Ba, Moussa Dia, Elisabeth Thérèse Faye, Sokhna Mayemouna Diop, Yoro Sall, Boly Diop, Mamadou Ndiaye, Cheikh Loucoubar, Etienne Simon-Lorière, Anavaj Sakuntabhai, Ousmane Faye, Amadou Alpha Sall, Diawo Diallo, Ndongo Dia, Oumar Faye, Moussa Moise Diagne, Malick Fall, Marie Henriette Dior Ndione, Mamadou Aliou Barry and Gamou Fall Show full author list Hide full author list

Viruses 2024, 16(7), 1018; https://doi.org/10.3390/v16071018 - 25 Jun 2024

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Abstract

Rift Valley fever (RVF) is a re-emerging vector-borne zoonosis with a high public health and veterinary impact. In West Africa, many lineages were previously detected, but since 2020, lineage H from South Africa has been the main cause of the outbreaks. In this [...] Read more.

Rift Valley fever (RVF) is a re-emerging vector-borne zoonosis with a high public health and veterinary impact. In West Africa, many lineages were previously detected, but since 2020, lineage H from South Africa has been the main cause of the outbreaks. In this study, clinical samples collected through national surveillance were screened for RVF virus (RVFV) acute infection by RT-PCR and IgM ELISA tests. Sequencing, genome mapping and in vitro phenotypic characterization in mammal cells were performed on RT-PCR positive samples in comparison with other epidemic lineages (G and C). Four RVFV human cases were detected in Senegal and the sequence analyses revealed that the strains belonged to lineage H. The in vitro kinetics and genome mapping showed different replication efficiency profiles for the tested RVFV lineages and non-conservative mutations, which were more common to lineage G or specific to lineage H. Our findings showed the re-emergence of lineage H in Senegal in 2022, its high viral replication efficiency in vitro and support the findings that genetic diversity affects viral replication. This study gives new insights into the biological properties of lineage H and calls for deeper studies to better assess its potential to cause a future threat in Senegal. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mosquito-Borne Encephalitis Viruses)

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10 pages, 247 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Mosquitoes from Europe Are Able to Transmit Snowshoe Hare Virus

by Stephanie Jansen, Patrick Höller, Michelle Helms, Unchana Lange, Norbert Becker, Jonas Schmidt-Chanasit, Renke Lühken and Anna Heitmann

Viruses 2024, 16(2), 222; https://doi.org/10.3390/v16020222 - 31 Jan 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1499

Abstract

Snowshoe hare virus (SSHV) is a zoonotic arthropod-borne virus (arbovirus) circulating in colder areas of the Northern Hemisphere. SSHV is maintained in an enzootic cycle between small mammals and mosquitoes, assumably of the genera Aedes and Culiseta. Symptoms of SSHV human infection [...] Read more.

Snowshoe hare virus (SSHV) is a zoonotic arthropod-borne virus (arbovirus) circulating in colder areas of the Northern Hemisphere. SSHV is maintained in an enzootic cycle between small mammals and mosquitoes, assumably of the genera Aedes and Culiseta. Symptoms of SSHV human infection can range from asymptomatic to severe neuroinvasive disease. Studies on SSHV transmission are limited, and there is no information available on whether mosquitoes of the genus Culex are able to transmit SSHV. Therefore, we investigated six mosquito species via salivation assay for their vector competence. We demonstrated that SSHV can be transmitted by the abundant European Culex species Cx. pipiens biotype pipiens, Cx. pipiens biotype molestus, and Cx. torrentium with low transmission efficiency between 3.33% and 6.67%. Additionally, the invasive species Ae. albopictus can also transmit SSHV with a low transmission efficiency of 3.33%. Our results suggest that local transmission of SSHV after introduction to Europe seems to be possible from a vector perspective. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mosquito-Borne Encephalitis Viruses)

Review

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18 pages, 973 KiB

Open AccessReview

Central and Peripheral Nervous System Manifestations Associated with Dengue Illness

by Maria G. Guzman and Eric Martinez

Viruses 2024, 16(9), 1367; https://doi.org/10.3390/v16091367 - 28 Aug 2024

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Abstract

Dengue illness, caused by the dengue viruses, continues to be a major global health concern, with increasing incidence and the emergence of severe manifestations such as neurological complications. An overview of the current understanding of dengue epidemiology, clinical manifestations, and research priorities is [...] Read more.

Dengue illness, caused by the dengue viruses, continues to be a major global health concern, with increasing incidence and the emergence of severe manifestations such as neurological complications. An overview of the current understanding of dengue epidemiology, clinical manifestations, and research priorities is presented here. Dengue transmission has escalated in recent years, exacerbated by factors such as vector expansion, climate change, and socioeconomic challenges. The clinical spectrum of dengue ranges from mild febrile illness to severe manifestations, including hemorrhagic fever and neurological complications. Neurological manifestations of dengue, once considered rare, are now increasingly reported, encompassing encephalitis, myelitis, and Guillain–Barré Syndrome, among others. Diagnosis primarily relies on laboratory methods such as RT/PCR, NS1 antigen detection, and serological assays. Despite advancements in understanding the dengue pathogenesis, there remains a critical need for effective vaccines, antiviral drugs, improved surveillance methods, predictive models for disease severity, and long-term studies on post-Dengue sequelae. Integrated programs and holistic approaches to dengue control are essential for mitigating its impact. Addressing these research priorities will be pivotal in combating dengue and reducing its global burden. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mosquito-Borne Encephalitis Viruses)

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6 pages, 832 KiB

Open AccessCase Report

Neuro-Ophthalmic Dengue Infection: A Case Report with a Multiple Body Site Sampling Strategy and Review of Laboratory Data

by Grace I. Butel-Simoes, Nupur Bajaj, Sultan Asad, Jean Moselen, Nicole Orlando, Eike Steinig, Thomas Tran, Julian Druce, Leon Caly, Emma Bishop, Chanad Harangozo and Chuan Kok Lim

Viruses 2024, 16(7), 998; https://doi.org/10.3390/v16070998 - 21 Jun 2024

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Abstract

Dengue neurological disease is an uncommon yet severe complication of dengue infection. It can manifest as encephalitis, encephalopathy, neuro-ophthalmic complications, or neuromuscular disorders. Severe infection can result in viral shedding across multiple body sites. We describe a case of severe neuro-ophthalmic dengue infection [...] Read more.

Dengue neurological disease is an uncommon yet severe complication of dengue infection. It can manifest as encephalitis, encephalopathy, neuro-ophthalmic complications, or neuromuscular disorders. Severe infection can result in viral shedding across multiple body sites. We describe a case of severe neuro-ophthalmic dengue infection in an otherwise healthy returned traveller, presenting with prolonged multiple-body-site viral detections by PCR. The dengue virus (DENV) dynamics and serological response support a direct DENV neuropathogenicity. A retrospective review of the laboratory data at the Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory (VIDRL) suggests that blood is the most frequent sample type with DENV detection (92% of all DENV-positive samples). Genotype variation is seen across different sample types. The similarity of CSF and nasopharyngeal DENV subtypes (genotype 1 and 3) suggests a possible correlation between nasopharyngeal replication and neurological complications. The case presented highlights the direct neuropathogenicity of DENV early in the course of infection, and a potential correlation between nasopharyngeal replication and neurological disease. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mosquito-Borne Encephalitis Viruses)

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