First Evidence of a Lyssavirus in Australian Fruit Bats
Author Information
Author(s): Graeme C. Fraser, Peter T. Hooper, Ross A. Lunt, Allan R. Gould, Laurece J. Gleeson, Alex D. Hyatt, Gail M. Russell, Jaqueline A. Kattenbelt
Primary Institution: NSW Department of Agriculture, Wollongbar, Australia; CSIRO Division of Animal Health, Geelong, Australia
Hypothesis
Is there a rabies-like disease present in Australian fruit bats?
Conclusion
This study provides the first evidence of an endemic lyssavirus in Australia, specifically in the black flying fox.
Supporting Evidence
- The virus was isolated from the tissue of a sick juvenile black flying fox.
- Histological examination showed severe nonsuppurative encephalitis in the affected bats.
- PCR tests indicated the presence of a lyssavirus in the bat tissues.
- Electron microscopy revealed classical bullet-shaped rhabdoviruses in the brain of affected mice.
Takeaway
Scientists found a new virus in Australian bats that is similar to the rabies virus, which could be important for public health.
Methodology
The study involved isolating the virus from bat tissues and conducting various tests including immunohistochemistry and PCR.
Limitations
The study is limited by the small sample size and the need for further genetic and antigenic analyses.
Participant Demographics
The bats studied were wild native Australian black flying foxes collected in northern New South Wales.
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