Novel Hendra Virus Variant Detected by Sentinel Surveillance of Horses in Australia.

ABSTRACT: We identified and isolated a novel Hendra virus (HeV) variant not detected by routine testing from a horse in Queensland, Australia, that died from acute illness with signs consistent with HeV infection. Using whole-genome sequencing and phylogenetic analysis, we determined the variant had ≈83% nt identity with prototypic HeV. In silico and in vitro comparisons of the receptor-binding protein with prototypic HeV support that the human monoclonal antibody m102.4 used for postexposure prophylaxis and current equine vaccine will be effective against this variant. An updated quantitative PCR developed for routine surveillance resulted in subsequent case detection. Genetic sequence consistency with virus detected in grey-headed flying foxes suggests the variant circulates at least among this sp

SUBMITTER: Annand EJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8888208 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature