Molecular Detection of Coronavirus and Paramyxovirus in Phyllostimid Bat Communities From Ecuador’s Northwestern Chocoan Forests

Abstract

Bats are important reservoirs for pathogenic viruses. Amidst rising human-wildlife interactions, the risk of potential spillover of zoonotic diseases escalates. We aimed to identify Coronavirus and Paramyxovirus in bat saliva samples for species inhabiting Ecuador’s northwestern Choco region. Sampling was undertaken at FCAT reserve in the Esmeraldas province in November 2022. A total of 123 samples from individuals appertaining 20 species, were analyzed using RT-PCR. We recorded 28 positive cases for paramyxovirus, 18 for coronavirus and four co-infections. These findings underscore the necessity of enhancing zoonotic surveillance and establishing viral diversity monitoring strategies.