Langya Henipavirus: A Novel Zoonotic Virus from Shrews in China
A new virus, called Langya henipavirus (LayV), has been identified in China. There are no spelling, grammar, or punctuation errors in the original text.This virus belongs to the family of henipaviruses, which are capable of infecting both humans and animals. Between 2018 and 2021, LayV was identified in 35 patients with fever in the provinces of Shandong and Henan. The symptoms associated with this virus include fever, cough, fatigue, and, in some cases, encephalitis, which is the inflammation of the brain.
Origin and Transmission
Scientists conducted a thorough study in areas where the infected patients were treated. They found LayV antibodies in goats and dogs, indicating exposure, and LayV viral RNA in shrews, suggesting active infection. Shrews are suspected to be the natural reservoir of LayV, and humans may get infected directly from shrews or indirectly from other animals in contact with shrews. Nevertheless, the precise method of transmission is yet to be determined.
Genetic analysis revealed that LayV is a distinct henipavirus, closely related to Mojiang henipavirus, found in shrews in southern China. LayV may have originated from a recombination event between Mojiang henipavirus and another unknown henipavirus, evolving in shrews before infecting humans.
Symptoms and Treatment
Among the 35 LayV-infected patients, 26 had no other co-infections, while 9 had co-infections with other pathogens. Fever was the main symptom, accompanied by fatigue, cough, sore throat, and more. Some patients experienced low white blood cell and platelet counts, indicating blood cell impact. In severe cases, LayV caused encephalitis, leading to confusion, seizures, coma, and, rarely, death.
There is no specific treatment or vaccine for LayV. Patients received supportive care, including fluids, oxygen, antibiotics, and fever-reducing drugs. Some were given ribavirin, an antiviral drug used for other RNA viruses, and chloroquine, an antimalarial drug. The safety and effectiveness of LayV treatments need to be verified through clinical trials.
Conclusion
LayV is a new zoonotic virus causing respiratory symptoms and encephalitis. While related to severe henipaviruses, LayV appears less lethal and transmissible among humans. Researchers are investigating its origin, transmission, and evolution. At present, there are no established remedies or vaccines available for LayV.More research is required to understand and prevent LayV and other henipaviruses.
Aljofan, M. & Marsh, G.A. Antiviral strategies against henipaviruses. Viruses 11, 111 (2019).
