IDENTIFICATION AND SEROLOGICAL CHARACTERIZATION OF A VIRUS ISOLATED FROM A COTTON MOUSE FROM FLORIDA

Abstract

The Patois serogroup of the genus Bunyavirus (virus family Bunyaviridae) is comprised of seven known viruses. The member viruses have all been isolated from the tropical and subtropical areas of the Americas, with two viruses having been isolated in the everglades of southern Florida, USA. During a survey for equine encephalitis viruses in Indian River County, Florida, a virus was isolated from the blood of a cotton mouse (Peromyscus gossypinus) and sent to The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for identification. This virus (R88-530) was characterized using morphologic and antigenic properties to determine its placement within a serogroup. Characterization was done utilizing classic virological techniques, including electron microscopic analysis to determine virus morphology, indirect fluorescence antibody tests (IFA), enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and plaque neutralization (PRNT) assays to determine serological relationships to other members of its serogroup. Based on virus morphologic data, including virus particle size, and structural characteristics, isolate R88-530 was determined to be a member of the genus Bunyavirus. Reference grouping fluids and immunologic reagents developed specifically against the isolate, allowed its placement in the Patois serogroup. IFA and PRNT assays determined that the isolate is a member of a virus complex within the Patois group, closely related to two other viruses: Pahayokee and Zegla.