[Characteristics of the ecology of the eastern equine encephalomyelitis virus in the Republic of Cuba].

The research study reports on the ecology of the eastern equine encephalomyelitis (EEE) virus in Cuba, identifying birds as the main hosts and also highlighting the virus’s presence in wild vertebrates and iguanas. The researchers found active EEE virus in four provinces, and note the existence of at least two different types of infection foci: forest and water-littoral.

Primary hosts of EEE virus in Cuba

• After conducting virologic and serological surveys of wild vertebrates in various provinces of Cuba, the researchers ascertained that birds are the primary hosts of the EEE virus in the region.
• They were able to isolate15 strains of the EEE virus from 8 different species of birds spread across 5 different orders.

Role of Cold-Blooded Animals

• The isolation of the EEE virus from the blood of endemic iguanas suggests that cold-blooded animals might also play a role in the ecology of the virus.

Provinces with Active EEE Virus Foci

• The researchers discovered active EEE virus foci in four provinces of Cuba – Pinar del Rio, Havana, Matanzas, and Las Villas.
• During an epizootic in Las Villas, several strains of the EEE virus were isolated from sick horses, implying the infectious nature of the virus among domestic animals in Cuba.

Infection Foci Types

• The study also suggests the presence of at least two types of infection foci in Cuba—forest and water-littoral.
• The water-littoral foci include freshwater swamps and lakes, as well as sea coasts with mangrove forests.