New Rabies Virus Variant in Mexican Immigrant
Author Information
Author(s): Velasco-Villa Andres, Messenger Sharon L., Orciari Lillian A., Niezgoda Michael, Blanton Jesse D., Fukagawa Chris, Rupprecht Charles E.
Primary Institution: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
Hypothesis
What is the origin and characterization of the rabies virus variant found in a Mexican immigrant who died in California?
Conclusion
A new rabies virus variant was identified in a Mexican immigrant, suggesting a need for enhanced surveillance of rabies reservoirs.
Supporting Evidence
- The rabies virus variant was most closely related to those found in insectivorous bats.
- Phylogenetic analyses indicated that the variant represents a new lineage.
- The patient had a history of exposure to domestic and wild carnivores, but the virus did not match known variants from these animals.
- Enhanced surveillance is recommended to better understand rabies reservoirs in the region.
Takeaway
A man from Mexico died from a new type of rabies virus that likely came from bats, not the animals he was exposed to.
Methodology
Brain samples were analyzed for rabies virus presence and characterized using molecular and phylogenetic methods.
Limitations
The exact animal reservoir for the new rabies variant remains unknown.
Participant Demographics
A male Mexican immigrant with a history of animal exposure.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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