Dobrava-Belgrade virus

The Dobrava-Belgrade virus (DOBV) is a species of Orthohantavirus that is known to cause hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) in humans. It is primarily found in the Balkans and other parts of southeastern Europe. This virus is named after the regions where it was first identified, Dobrava in Slovenia and Belgrade in Serbia.

Virology

Dobrava-Belgrade virus is a member of the Hantaviridae family, which is part of the order Bunyavirales. Like other hantaviruses, DOBV is an enveloped virus with a single-stranded, negative-sense RNA genome. The genome is segmented into three parts: the small (S), medium (M), and large (L) segments, which encode the nucleocapsid protein, glycoproteins, and RNA-dependent RNA polymerase, respectively.

Transmission

Apodemus agrarius, a known host of DOBV

Dobrava-Belgrade virus is primarily transmitted to humans through contact with the excreta of infected rodents. The primary reservoir hosts of DOBV are rodents of the genus Apodemus, particularly the yellow-necked mouse (Apodemus flavicollis) and the striped field mouse (Apodemus agrarius). Human infection typically occurs through inhalation of aerosolized particles from rodent urine, droppings, or nesting materials.

Clinical Features

In humans, infection with Dobrava-Belgrade virus can lead to hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS), which is characterized by fever, headache, abdominal pain, and renal dysfunction. The severity of the disease can vary, with some cases resulting in mild symptoms and others leading to severe renal failure and hemorrhagic complications.

Epidemiology

Apodemus flavicollis, another host of DOBV

Dobrava-Belgrade virus is endemic to the Balkan region, with cases reported in countries such as Slovenia, Serbia, and Greece. The distribution of the virus is closely linked to the habitats of its rodent hosts. Outbreaks of HFRS caused by DOBV are often associated with increased rodent populations and human activities that bring people into closer contact with these animals.

Prevention

Preventive measures against Dobrava-Belgrade virus focus on reducing human exposure to infected rodents and their excreta. This includes rodent control measures, proper sanitation, and public education on avoiding contact with rodent habitats. In areas where the virus is endemic, individuals are advised to take precautions such as sealing food containers, cleaning up food waste, and using protective equipment when cleaning areas that may be contaminated with rodent droppings.

Related pages

• Hantavirus
• Hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome
• Orthohantavirus