Rift Valley Fever Virus, Japanese Encephalitis Virus, and African Swine Fever Virus: Three Transboundary, Vector-Borne, Veterinary Biothreats With Diverse Surveillance, and Response Capacity Needs

Abstract

Early detection of emerging foreign animal diseases is critical to pathogen surveillance and control programs. Rift valley fever virus (RVFV), Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV), and African swine fever virus (ASFV) represent three taxonomically and ecologically diverse vector-borne viruses with the potential to be introduced to the United States. To promote preparedness for such an event, we reviewed the current surveillance strategies and diagnostic tools in practice around the world for these emerging viruses, and summarized key points pertaining to the availability of existing guidelines and strategic approaches for early detection, surveillance, and disease management activities. We compare and contrast the surveillance and management approaches of these three diverse agents of disease as case studies to emphasize the importance of the ecological context and biology of vectors and vertebrate hosts. The information presented in this review will inform stakeholders of the current state of surveillance approaches against these transboundary foreign animal disease which threaten the United States.

Innate Immune DNA Sensing of Flaviviruses

“…JEV is another emerging arbovirus that is transmitted by Culex mosquitoes in the Flavivirus genus [7,135]. As one of the most common encephalitic flaviviruses, JEV infects between 30,000 and 50,000 people every year, with severe cases estimated to occur in 1 in every 250 cases [6,136]. Although the vast majority of infections are asymptomatic, those who do develop encephalitis (usually children) face significant morbidity and mortality risks.…”

Epidemiological investigation of swine Japanese encephalitis virus based on RT-RAA detection method

“…In addition, under the influence of ASF epidemic, farmers paid less attention to JEV and the vaccination rate declined. Hence the prevalence of JEV increased in pigs 19 .…”

African swine fever virus: A re-emerging threat to the swine industry and food security in the Americas

“…Despite the multiple multilateral efforts to avoid ASFV emergence into the Americas, the virus has arrived and spread rapidly from one country to another. This situation highlights the need to establish local, regional, and transnational measures to avoid the spread of ASFV to other countries in the region (Kading et al, 2019 ). It is imperative to establish and follow national and international guidelines on preventive surveillance and diagnosis including enhancing communication among countries, strengthen vector surveillance, and increase public awareness of ASFV.…”