Serological Biosurveillance for Spillover of Henipaviruses and Filoviruses at Agricultural and Hunting Human-Animal Interfaces in Peninsular Malaysia
Abstract
The henipaviruses and filoviruses include Nipah virus (NiV) and several species of Ebola (EBOV) and Marburg virus (MARV), respectively, which are highly pathogenic viruses and select agents capable of causing public health emergencies of international concern. Bats are recognized as reservoirs for both henipa- and filoviruses, and zoonotic transmission of these viruses from bats to humans has occurred in Southeast Asia. This project will enhance early detection and surveillance capacity in Malaysia by: 1) transferring Luminex-based technology with validated reagents to detect IgG antibodies against any henipa- and filoviruses to Government of Malaysia partner labs in wildlife, livestock and human health sectors; 2) training laboratory personnel to develop and utilize Luminex-based assays to identify exposure to and spillover of henipa- and filoviruses; 3) conducting biological surveillance in wildlife (esp. bats), livestock and people around indigenous communities that hunt wildlife and on farms in Peninsular Malaysia, where there are high levels of contact among people and animals. Activities will be coordinated with and complimentary to the USAID Emerging Pandemic Threats: PREDICT program and surveillance data will be shared with the Govt. of Malaysia (GoM). The proposed project is closely aligned with the aims of the Cooperative Biological Engagement Program Thrust Area 6 in that it will support biosurveillance and capability building, engages partner-country scientists, and promotes a One-Health approach to biological threat reduction.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Oct 10, 2018
- Source ID
- HDTRA11710037
Entities
People
- Jonathan Epstein
Organizations
- Defense Threat Reduction Agency
- EcoHealth Alliance