Encephalomyocarditis

Encephalomyocarditis

Encephalomyocarditis (EMC) is a viral disease that primarily affects the heart and central nervous system. It is caused by the Encephalomyocarditis virus (EMCV), which belongs to the genus Cardiovirus in the family Picornaviridae. This disease is of significant concern in both veterinary and human medicine due to its potential to cause severe outbreaks in animal populations and its zoonotic potential.

Virology

The Encephalomyocarditis virus is a non-enveloped, single-stranded RNA virus. It is characterized by its small size and icosahedral symmetry. The virus is highly stable in the environment, which contributes to its ability to spread among susceptible hosts. EMCV primarily infects rodents, which are considered the natural reservoir of the virus. However, it can also infect a wide range of other animals, including pigs, cattle, and non-human primates.

Transmission

Transmission of EMCV occurs through direct contact with infected animals or their secretions, as well as through contaminated food and water. In agricultural settings, pigs are often infected through contact with rodents or contaminated feed. The virus can also be transmitted vertically from mother to offspring during pregnancy.

Clinical Signs

In animals, EMCV infection can lead to a variety of clinical signs, depending on the species and age of the host. In pigs, the disease is often characterized by sudden death, myocarditis, and reproductive failure. In rodents, the virus can cause encephalitis and myocarditis, leading to neurological symptoms and heart failure.

In humans, EMCV infection is rare but can occur, particularly in individuals with close contact with infected animals. Symptoms in humans may include fever, headache, muscle pain, and in severe cases, myocarditis and encephalitis.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of EMCV infection is typically based on clinical signs, history of exposure, and laboratory testing. Laboratory tests include virus isolation, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays, and serological tests to detect antibodies against the virus. Histopathological examination of affected tissues can also aid in diagnosis.

Treatment and Prevention

There is no specific antiviral treatment for EMCV infection. Management of the disease focuses on supportive care and prevention of secondary infections. In animals, control measures include rodent control, biosecurity practices, and vaccination in some cases. Vaccines are available for use in pigs to reduce the incidence of the disease.

Public Health Implications

While EMCV is primarily an animal disease, its zoonotic potential poses a risk to human health, particularly for individuals working in close contact with animals. Public health measures include monitoring and controlling outbreaks in animal populations to prevent spillover to humans.

Also see

• Myocarditis
• Encephalitis
• Zoonosis
• Viral infections