Norwalk-Like Calicivirus Genes in Farm Animals
Author Information
Author(s): Wim H.M. van der Poel, Jan Vinje, Reina van der Heide, Maria-Inmaculada Herrera, Amparo Vivo, Marion P.G. Koopmans
Primary Institution: National Institute of Public Health and the Environment, Bilthoven, the Netherlands; Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
Hypothesis
Are Norwalk-like viruses (NLVs) commonly present in farm animals?
Conclusion
The study found that NLV infections, previously thought to be restricted to humans, occur often in calves and sometimes in pigs.
Supporting Evidence
- NLV RNA was detected in 33 (44%) of the specimens from veal calf farms.
- Two (2%) specimens from pig farms also tested positive for NLV RNA.
- Phylogenetic analysis showed that the detected sequences were closely related to human NLVs.
Takeaway
Scientists looked for a virus that usually makes people sick in farm animals and found it in calves and pigs, suggesting these animals might carry the virus.
Methodology
Pooled stool samples from various farm animals were tested for NLVs using reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR).
Limitations
The study did not prove zoonotic transmission and the low number of positives by electron microscopy may limit the findings.
Participant Demographics
Samples were collected from 100 pig farms, 48 chicken farms, 43 dairy cow herds, and 75 veal calf farms in the Netherlands.
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