Tula virus

Tula virus (TULV) is a species of Orthohantavirus in the family Hantaviridae, which is part of the order Bunyavirales. It is primarily found in Europe and is known to infect rodents, particularly the European common vole (Microtus arvalis). Tula virus is one of several hantaviruses that can cause disease in humans, although it is considered to be of low pathogenicity compared to other hantaviruses such as Hantaan virus and Puumala virus.

Virology

Tula virus is an enveloped virus with a negative-sense, single-stranded RNA genome. The genome is segmented into three parts: the small (S), medium (M), and large (L) segments. These segments encode the nucleocapsid protein, glycoproteins (Gn and Gc), and the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase, respectively.

Transmission

Tula virus is primarily transmitted to humans through inhalation of aerosolized particles from rodent excreta, such as urine, droppings, or saliva. Human-to-human transmission has not been documented for Tula virus, which is consistent with other hantaviruses.

Clinical Manifestations

Infection with Tula virus can lead to a mild form of Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS) or Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome (HFRS), although cases are rare. Symptoms may include fever, headache, abdominal pain, and renal involvement. Severe cases are uncommon, and the overall mortality rate is low compared to other hantaviruses.

Epidemiology

Tula virus is predominantly found in Central and Eastern Europe. The primary reservoir host is the European common vole, but other rodents may also harbor the virus. Human cases are sporadic and often associated with rural or semi-rural environments where contact with rodent populations is more likely.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Tula virus infection is typically confirmed through serological tests, such as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), which detect specific antibodies against the virus. Molecular techniques, such as reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), can also be used to detect viral RNA in clinical samples.

Prevention and Control

Preventive measures focus on reducing human exposure to rodent populations and their excreta. This includes rodent control, proper sanitation, and public education on avoiding contact with rodents. Personal protective equipment (PPE) may be used in high-risk settings.

Research

Ongoing research is focused on understanding the molecular biology of Tula virus, its pathogenesis, and the development of potential vaccines and antiviral therapies. Studies are also investigating the ecology of the virus and its interactions with rodent hosts.

Also see

• Hantavirus
• Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome
• Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome
• Puumala virus
• Hantaan virus