Mokola lyssavirus

Mokola lyssavirus is a virus in the Rhabdoviridae family, specifically within the Lyssavirus genus. It is one of the 16 recognized species of lyssaviruses, which also includes the Rabies virus. Mokola lyssavirus is named after the location in Nigeria where it was first isolated in 1968.

History

Mokola lyssavirus was first identified in 1968 in the town of Mokola, Nigeria. The virus was isolated from a shrew and a domestic cat, marking the first time a lyssavirus had been found in species other than bats and carnivores. Since its initial discovery, Mokola lyssavirus has been isolated in several other African countries, including Cameroon, Central African Republic, and South Africa.

Transmission and Symptoms

Mokola lyssavirus is primarily transmitted through the bite of an infected animal. The virus has been found in a variety of mammalian species, including cats, dogs, rodents, and shrews. Once infected, the virus travels to the central nervous system where it causes severe neurological symptoms. These symptoms can include aggression, paralysis, and ultimately death.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis of Mokola lyssavirus is typically made through laboratory testing, which can include polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing, virus isolation, or serology. There is currently no specific treatment for Mokola lyssavirus. Management of the disease primarily involves supportive care and prevention of secondary infections.

Prevention

Prevention of Mokola lyssavirus involves avoiding contact with potentially infected animals and vaccination of domestic animals. While there is no specific vaccine for Mokola lyssavirus, the rabies vaccine has been shown to provide some protection.

See Also

• Rabies
• Lyssavirus
• Rhabdoviridae