Henipavirus Infection in Fruit Bats in India
Author Information
Author(s): Jonathan H. Epstein, Vibhu Prakash, Craig S. Smith, Peter Daszak, Amanda B. McLaughlin, Greer Meehan, Hume E. Field, Andrew A. Cunningham
Primary Institution: The Consortium for Conservation Medicine
Hypothesis
Do henipaviruses circulate in pteropid fruit bats (Pteropus giganteus) in northern India?
Conclusion
The study found that Nipah virus circulates in Indian fruit bats, extending the known range of henipaviruses in Asia by over 1,000 km.
Supporting Evidence
- Twenty bats were seropositive for Nipah virus, suggesting circulation in this species.
- The study extended the known distribution of henipaviruses in Asia by over 1,000 km.
- ELISA showed 95% sensitivity and 75% specificity compared to serum neutralization tests.
- Significant differences in seroprevalence were found between bats with poor and fair body condition scores.
Takeaway
Scientists checked 41 bats in India to see if they had a virus that can make people sick, and they found that many of them did.
Methodology
The study involved capturing bats, collecting blood samples, and testing for antibodies to Nipah and Hendra viruses using ELISA and serum neutralization tests.
Limitations
Logistical limitations prevented virus isolation and testing for viral RNA.
Participant Demographics
Bats were captured from a colony in Haryana State, northern India.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.005
Confidence Interval
95% CI 47%–78%
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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