Venezuelan Equine Encephalitis Virus in Iquitos, Peru: Urban Transmission of a Sylvatic Strain
Author Information
Author(s): Amy C. Morrison, Brett M. Forshey, Desiree Notyce, Helvio Astete, Victor Lopez, Claudio Rocha, Rebecca Carrion, Cristhiam Carey, Dominique Eza, Joel M. Montgomery, Tadeusz J. Kochel
Primary Institution: Naval Medical Research Center Detachment, Iquitos and Lima, Peru
Hypothesis
Is there urban transmission of Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus (VEEV) in Iquitos, Peru?
Conclusion
The study found that over 23% of Iquitos residents had antibodies against VEEV, indicating urban transmission of the virus.
Supporting Evidence
- Over 23% of residents in Iquitos had neutralizing antibodies against VEEV.
- Significant associations were found between antibody prevalence and factors like age and occupation.
- Potential vectors of VEEV were found to be widely distributed across urban areas.
Takeaway
In Iquitos, many people have been exposed to a virus that usually spreads in rural areas, showing that it can also spread in cities.
Methodology
The study involved serological surveys and entomological surveys in urban neighborhoods of Iquitos to assess VEEV transmission.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in self-reported travel history and demographic data.
Limitations
The study may underestimate exposure due to recall bias in travel history and did not control for migration into the city.
Participant Demographics
The mean age of participants was 29 years, with 70.7% being adults and 67% female.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.005
Confidence Interval
95% CI 2.1, 10.0
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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