What is the name of a virus carried by mice? - briefly
«Lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus» (LCMV) is the principal pathogen transmitted by house mice. It may cause febrile illness and aseptic meningitis in humans.
What is the name of a virus carried by mice? - in detail
The virus most commonly associated with murine reservoirs is «Lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus» (LCMV). It belongs to the family Arenaviridae, genus Arenavirus, and is an enveloped, single‑stranded RNA virus. Natural infection occurs in the house mouse (Mus musculus), where the virus persists without causing overt disease, allowing long‑term shedding in urine, feces, saliva, and reproductive fluids.
Transmission to humans happens through direct contact with contaminated rodent excreta, inhalation of aerosolised particles, or percutaneous exposure during bites or laboratory work. Infections present a spectrum ranging from asymptomatic seroconversion to aseptic meningitis, encephalitis, or, in rare cases, severe hemorrhagic fever. Congenital infection can lead to developmental abnormalities and fetal loss.
Epidemiologically, LCMV is distributed worldwide wherever house mice inhabit human dwellings, particularly in urban, suburban, and agricultural settings. Seroprevalence studies indicate that 1–5 % of the general population possess antibodies, reflecting subclinical exposure. Outbreaks are sporadic and often linked to occupational hazards in research facilities or pet trade involving rodents.
Diagnostic procedures rely on detection of virus‑specific IgM/IgG antibodies by enzyme‑linked immunosorbent assay or immunofluorescence, and on reverse‑transcription polymerase chain reaction for viral RNA in cerebrospinal fluid, blood, or tissue samples. Viral isolation in cell culture remains possible but is less frequently employed due to biosafety constraints.
Prevention emphasizes rodent control, strict hygiene in laboratories handling mice, and use of personal protective equipment. No specific antiviral therapy exists; management is supportive, with ribavirin occasionally considered in severe cases. Vaccine development is ongoing, but no licensed product is currently available.