Publication Highlight: Genomic epidemiology of Rift Valley Fever Virus involved in the 2018 and 2022 outbreaks in livestock in Rwanda
A new study by GenPath Africa consortium members Samuel Oyola and John Juma from the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) provides a genomic retrospective study on Rift Valley Fever outbreaks in Rwanda.
What is this publication about?
In this study, researchers used genomic analysis to examine the genetic diversity of Rift Valley Fever Virus (RVFV) strains observed in the 2018 and 2022 outbreaks in Rwanda. They identified the dominant virus strain (known as “lineage C”) circulating in Rwanda, and also detected a vaccine strain (known as “Clone 13”) in slaughterhouse animals in the area, which could expose people working in close proximity to livestock to the risk of infection. The study also notes the danger of a potential mixture of these two virus strains, which could produce a new RVFV strain and pose unknown risks to the health of animal and human populations in the area.
Why is this important?
This study illustrates the power of genomic surveillance in detecting and revealing the type of virus strain that is circulating within the population and whether it has changed significantly from known variants. Knowing the circulating strain(s) is an important basis for the design of targeted and effective control measures in affected areas. Data obtained in this study are already available to other researchers through public repositories and allow for a detailed understanding of virus transmission patterns on a local and regional level. That way they can support the development of effective public health responses and control initiatives.
How can it make a difference?
RVFV is no longer a country- or region-specific public health problem; the disease can quickly establish itself in new geographical areas. Consequently, the ability to detect and characterize the circulating virus strains through genomic surveillance can strengthen measures against RVFV outbreaks. In addition to increased genomic surveillance of the virus, scientists advocate for “One Health” initiatives that combine efforts to protect the health of animal and human populations and offer a compelling approach to mitigate the spread of RVFV.
Isidore Nsengimana, John Juma, Kristina Roesel, Methode N. Gasana, Fabrice Ndayisenga, Claude M. Muvunyi, Emmanuel Hakizimana, Jean N. Hakizimana, Gillian Eastwood, Augustino A. Chengula, Bernard Bett, Christopher J. Kasanga, Samuel O. Oyola. "Genomic Epidemiology of Rift Valley Fever Virus Involved in the 2018 and 2022 Outbreaks in Livestock in Rwanda." Viruses 16, no. 7: 1148, 17 July 2024. https://doi.org/10.3390/v16071148
