Bayou Virus-Associated Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome in Eastern Texas
Author Information
Author(s): Norah Torrez-Martinez, Mausumi Bharadwaj, Diane Goade, John Delury, Peggy Moran, Bradley Hicks, Beverlee Nix, James L. Davis, Brian Hjelle
Primary Institution: University of New Mexico School of Medicine
Hypothesis
The study aimed to identify the carrier rodents associated with two human cases of BAY virus infections and to further characterize the clinical consequences of human infection with BAY virus.
Conclusion
Rice rats are frequently infected with Bayou virus and are identified as the predominant reservoir host.
Supporting Evidence
- Bayou virus is associated with Oryzomys palustris, which appears to be its predominant reservoir host.
- Viral RNA sequences from HPS patients are similar to those from nearby rice rats.
- Four hantavirus antibody-positive rodents were trapped during the investigation.
Takeaway
This study found that rice rats carry a virus that can make people very sick, and they are the main source of this virus in Texas.
Methodology
Rodents were collected and tested for hantavirus antibodies, and viral RNA was sequenced from human and rodent samples.
Limitations
No substantial rodent collections were conducted in association with BAY virus HPS cases, and no direct molecular association was found between human BAY virus genomic sequences and those from rodents.
Participant Demographics
The study included a 54-year-old African-American man with a significant smoking history.
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