Pathogenesis of Venezuelan equine encephalitis.
- Journal Article
- Review
Summary
The research article focuses on the pathogenesis of Venezuelan equine encephalitis, a severe illness in horses that can also spread to humans, and considers prevention strategies including vaccination and early recognition in equine populations.
Pathogenesis of Venezuelan equine encephalitis in Equids
The body of the research article discusses in detail the pathogenesis of Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus (VEEV), a member of the Togaviridae family. The virus is noted to be one of the most pathogenic to equids – a term referring to horses, donkeys, and zebras among others. The virus is highlighted as being responsible for widespread and recent epidemic outbreaks of disease.
- The virus circulates in naturally occurring cycles involving rodents and mosquitoes, which results in the spread of the virus to both humans and equine populations.
The Role of Equines in VEEV Transmission
Equines play a significant role in the transmission of VEEV.
- Equines, after being infected by mosquitoes, develop high levels of VEEV in their blood (high titer viremia), which can then be transmitted back to mosquito populations when these insects feed on them.
- Due to this, the early recognition and control of viral infection in equine populations is seen as crucial for preventing epidemic spread of the virus and limiting disease incidence in human populations.
Prevention and Control Strategies
The article reviews different strategies for controlling and preventing the spread of VEEV.
- It addresses the identification of VEEV in equines, highlighting the importance of early diagnosis and treatment in these populations to halt the spread of the disease.
- Vaccination is also discussed as a possible prevention strategy. By immunizing equines against VEEV, the virus’s ability to spread to mosquitoes, and subsequently to humans, can be significantly reduced.
- The review also touches on current research exploring drug and vaccine developments against VEEV. This includes studying the biology of the virus to better understand its transmission and infection mechanisms, and consequently, develop effective medications and vaccines.
Cite This Article
Publication
Researcher Affiliations
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77550, United States. Electronic address: kattaylo@utmb.edu.
MeSH Terms
- Animals
- Encephalitis Virus, Venezuelan Equine / immunology
- Encephalitis Virus, Venezuelan Equine / pathogenicity
- Encephalomyelitis, Venezuelan Equine / pathology
- Encephalomyelitis, Venezuelan Equine / prevention & control
- Encephalomyelitis, Venezuelan Equine / transmission
- Encephalomyelitis, Venezuelan Equine / virology
- Horse Diseases / prevention & control
- Horse Diseases / transmission
- Horse Diseases / virology
- Horses
- Humans
- Zoonoses / virology
Citations
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