New Virus Discovery Highlights Zoonotic Risks in North America

A study conducted by researchers from Auburn University, University of Queensland, and University of Rochester has discovered a novel henipavirus in northern short-tailed shrews (Blarina brevicauda) in Alabama, US. This discovery, published in Emerging Infectious Diseases, indicates the presence of henipavirus in North America, with potential zoonotic implications.¹

The research team analyzed tissue samples from four wild-caught shrews, revealing a virus closely related to other shrew-borne henipaviruses. The virus, named Camp Hill virus (CHV), was identified through RNA metagenomic sequencing and phylogenetic analysis. The study found that CHV shares similarities with other known henipaviruses such as Nipah and Hendra viruses, which are associated with severe respiratory illness and encephalitis in humans.¹

The CDC Yellow Book defines Henipavirus as a genus of enveloped, single-stranded RNA viruses in the family Paramyxoviridae. Henipaviruses are zoonotic, meaning they can be transmitted from animals to humans, and can infect humans and cause severe diseases. This genus includes several viruses, such as Hendra and Nipah viruses, which are associated with high case-fatality rates. CHV is a newly discovered member of this genus and is considered a novel addition to this group of viruses.²

Genome sequencing of CHV revealed its distinct characteristics, including a novel open reading frame and specific genetic markers shared with other henipaviruses. The virus was found to primarily affect the kidneys of the shrews, suggesting renal tropism. Phylogenetic analysis placed CHV within a well-supported shrew-specific clade, supporting its classification as a new member of the Henipavirus genus.¹

This finding highlights the potential of the northern short-tailed shrew as a reservoir for henipaviruses. The shrews are known to harbor other viruses, including Camp Ripley virus, a hantavirus associated with severe human disease. Previous studies have also linked these shrews to Powassan virus, which can cause encephalitis. The wide distribution of these shrews across North America, particularly in rural and agricultural areas, raises concerns about potential human exposure to CHV, especially given the high case fatality rates associated with other henipaviruses.¹

The study underscores the need for further investigation into the transmission dynamics of CHV and other shrew-borne viruses and the potential for spillover events to humans. Continued research for understanding the risks associated with these emerging viruses and developing strategies for disease prevention and control.¹

References

1. Parry RH, Yamada KYH, Hood WR, Zhao Y, Lu JY, Seluanov A, et al. Henipavirus in northern short-tailed shrew, Alabama, USA. Emerg Infect Dis. 2024. January 17, 2025. Accessed February 7, 2024. https://doi.org/10.3201/eid3102.241155

2. Shoemaker T, Choi MJ. Henipavirus Infections. In: CDC Yellow Book 2024: Travel-Associated Infections & Diseases. National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases; Division of Global Migration Health. Updated May 1, 2023. Accessed February 7, 2025. https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/yellowbook/2024/infections-diseases/henipavirus-infections