Diverse Contexts of Zoonotic Transmission of Simian Foamy Viruses in Asia
2008

Zoonotic Transmission of Simian Foamy Viruses in Asia

Sample size: 305 publication 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Jones-Engel Lisa, May Cynthia C., Engel Gregory A., Steinkraus Katherine A., Schillaci Michael A., Fuentes Agustin, Rompis Aida, Chalise Mukesh K., Aggimarangsee Nantiya, Feeroz Mohammed M., Grant Richard, Allan Jonathan S., Putra Arta, Wandia I. Nengah, Watanabe Robin, Kuller LaRene, Thongsawat Satawat, Chaiwarith Romanee, Kyes Randall C., Linial Maxine L.

Primary Institution: University of Washington

Hypothesis

What is the prevalence of simian foamy virus (SFV) infection among humans living or working near nonhuman primates in Asia?

Conclusion

SFV infections are likely prevalent among persons who live or work near nonhuman primates in Asia, with a confirmed prevalence of 2.6%.

Supporting Evidence

  • 8 out of 305 tested individuals were confirmed SFV positive.
  • 5 macaque taxa were implicated as potential sources of infection.
  • SFV prevalence in at-risk populations was previously reported as 1%-6%.

Takeaway

People who live or work close to monkeys in Asia can get a virus from them, and this study found that about 3 out of every 100 people tested had the virus.

Methodology

The study tested 305 individuals from various countries in Asia for SFV infection using serological assays and phylogenetic analysis.

Potential Biases

Potential bias in self-reported exposure data and the limited demographic diversity of the sample.

Limitations

The study may not capture all potential cases of SFV infection due to the limited sample size and specific geographic focus.

Participant Demographics

Participants included 172 men and 133 women, aged 18 to 80, from Thailand, Indonesia, Nepal, and Bangladesh.

Statistical Information

P-Value

0.009

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.3201/eid1408.071430

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