Florida researchers discover new virus after scientist’s pet cat brings infected rodent into the lab raising concerns about potential human infection

Florida researchers discover new virus after scientist’s pet cat brings infected rodent into the lab raising concerns about potential human infection

An unexpected encounter between a pet cat and a cotton mouse in Florida has led scientists to identify a never-before-seen virus that may potentially impact humans.

This virus, part of the same family responsible for diseases like measles and mumps, was uncovered after Dr. John Lednicky’s cat, Pepper, brought home the mouse, setting off a surprising chain of events.

How a Molecular Biologist’s Curiosity Led to a New Discovery

Dr. Lednicky, a molecular biologist, decided to take the mouse to his lab for further examination.

Upon analysis, he identified a new strain of jeilongvirus, a virus previously found primarily in Africa, Asia, and South America.

This virus, named Gainesville Rodent Jeilong Virus 1 (GRJV1), is related to strains typically limited to rodents but has recently been detected in other species, including bats and even cats.

Can This Virus Spread to Humans?

One of the most significant aspects of this discovery is the virus’s ability to thrive in various cell types, including those of rodents, humans, and monkeys.

While scientists are unsure if this new virus can cause illness in people, past strains of jeilongvirus have occasionally led to respiratory symptoms like coughing, fever, and breathing difficulties.

These symptoms, while serious, have not been life-threatening.

Dr. Lednicky shared that the virus’s adaptability across different species means it has the potential for what’s known as a “spillover event,” where it could cross over into humans under the right circumstances.

A Reminder of Hidden Viruses Among Us

Emily DeRuyter, a doctoral researcher on the project, commented on the unexpected nature of this virus’s discovery, emphasizing that there are likely many unknown viruses circulating among animals that live in close contact with humans.

The virus family, which also includes well-known culprits behind illnesses like mumps and measles, is diverse and often hidden in wildlife around us.

Implications for Future Virus Transmission

In their study, researchers found that the virus could activate within both monkey and human cells, suggesting a possible future risk for humans who come into contact with materials contaminated by infected rodents.

While there is currently no indication that GRJV1 can infect humans, the researchers urge caution, comparing it to other rodent-borne viruses like hantaviruses, which, although fatal in some cases, infect a relatively small number of people annually.

No Cause for Alarm—Yet

Dr. Lednicky emphasized that people shouldn’t be overly concerned by this discovery, noting that although mouse-carried viruses can infect humans, these cases are rare due to minimal direct contact with infected rodents.

In addition, the cotton mouse, the species involved, primarily lives outdoors in areas like swamps and forests in the Southeastern United States, rarely venturing into homes.

A Healthy Ending for Pepper, the Cat

Fortunately, Pepper, the cat that initiated the discovery, shows no signs of illness after encountering the infected mouse.

For now, researchers are continuing their study of the virus to better understand its potential impact and ensure people are informed about any risks.

TDPel Media

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