Lujo virus

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colspan=2 style="text-align: center; background-color: rgb(250,250,190)" | Lujo virus
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Species	Lujo mammarenavirus

The Lujo virus is a member of the Arenaviridae family, which is known to cause viral hemorrhagic fevers in humans. It was first identified in 2008 during an outbreak in Lusaka, Zambia, and Johannesburg, South Africa, from which its name is derived ("Lu" for Lusaka and "Jo" for Johannesburg). The virus is classified under the genus Arenavirus, which includes other notable viruses such as the Lassa virus and the Junin virus.

Discovery and Outbreak

The Lujo virus was first discovered following a nosocomial outbreak in a private hospital in Johannesburg. The index case was a female travel agent from Zambia who was transferred to South Africa for treatment. The virus spread to healthcare workers and other patients, resulting in five confirmed cases, four of which were fatal. The outbreak was contained through strict infection control measures and the use of ribavirin, an antiviral medication.

Virology

Lujo virus is an enveloped, single-stranded, negative-sense RNA virus. Its genome is segmented into two parts: the L segment, which encodes the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase, and the S segment, which encodes the nucleoprotein and glycoproteins. The virus is transmitted through contact with infected rodent excreta or through person-to-person transmission via bodily fluids.

Genomic Structure

The Lujo virus genome consists of two segments:

• L segment: Encodes the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp), which is essential for viral replication.
• S segment: Encodes the nucleoprotein (NP) and glycoproteins (GP1 and GP2), which are involved in host cell entry and immune evasion.

Clinical Manifestations

Infection with Lujo virus leads to a severe hemorrhagic fever characterized by:

• High fever
• Myalgia
• Pharyngitis
• Diarrhea
• Rash
• Bleeding tendencies

The disease progresses rapidly, often leading to multi-organ failure and death. The case fatality rate observed during the initial outbreak was 80%.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Lujo virus infection is primarily based on:

• Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays to detect viral RNA
• Serological tests to identify specific antibodies
• Virus isolation in specialized laboratories

Treatment and Prevention

Currently, there is no specific antiviral treatment for Lujo virus infection. Supportive care and the use of ribavirin have been employed with some success. Preventive measures include:

• Avoiding contact with rodent excreta
• Implementing strict infection control practices in healthcare settings
• Educating healthcare workers about the risks of nosocomial transmission

Epidemiology

The natural reservoir of Lujo virus is believed to be rodents, similar to other arenaviruses. The exact species involved in its transmission to humans has not been definitively identified. Human-to-human transmission occurs through direct contact with infected bodily fluids.

Research and Future Directions

Ongoing research aims to better understand the pathogenesis of Lujo virus and to develop effective vaccines and therapeutics. Studies are also focused on identifying the natural reservoir and understanding the ecological factors that contribute to outbreaks.

Also see

• Arenavirus
• Lassa virus
• Viral hemorrhagic fever
• Ribavirin