2020, Vol. 1, Issue 1, Part A
Molecular detection of virus circulating in both great apes and humans in three protected national parks in Congo Brazzaville
Author(s): Amona I, Akiana J, Fenollar F, Medkour H, Nganga DM, Nsana SN, Davoust B, Raoult D, Mediannikov O and Banga-Mboko H
Abstract: Background: The biological similarities between humans and apes predispose them to exchange a number of virus and contact in the same habitats between these closely related species increases the risk of interspecies transmission. This study hypothesized that viruses may circulate between the great apes and humans in Congo. Methodology: Molecular tests were conducted on fecal samples from habituated and non-habituated wild gorillas (n=22), chimpanzee (n=1) and humans (n=38). Samples were collected in three national parks of the Republic of Congo, including the Odzala Kokoua National Park (OKNP), Nouabalé Ndoki National Park (NNNP) and Lesio Louna Gorilla Nature Reserve (LLGRN). The samples were analyzed to determine great ape species, identify individuals in the population and detect the presence of viruses. Results: Molecular analysis revealed that 72.22% (13/18) of the great apes (gorillas and Chimpanzee) identified were positive for 4 virus species (adenovirus, coronavirus, enterovirus and rotavirus) and 31.6% (12/38) of humans positive for at least one virus among the 5 virus species (adenovirus, enterovirus, hepatitis E virus, Parechovirus, Sapovirus) detected. The highest prevalences were recorded for Adenovirus (41.2%) and Enterovirus (29.4%) in gorillas. Adenoviruses and Enteroviruses were found in both gorillas and humans. Conclusions: These results provide data on virus circulating between great apes and humans in the Republic of Congo. With the intensification of ecotourism and other human activities in these protected areas, the study suggests systematic surveillance to ensure that apes and human health are not harmed.
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How to cite this article:
Amona I, Akiana J, Fenollar F, Medkour H, Nganga DM, Nsana SN, Davoust B, Raoult D, Mediannikov O, Banga-Mboko H. Molecular detection of virus circulating in both great apes and humans in three protected national parks in Congo Brazzaville. J Adv Microbiol Res 2020;1(1):07-14.
