Detection and Characterization of Homologues of Human Hepatitis Viruses and Pegiviruses in Rodents and Bats in Vietnam

Van Nguyen, Dung; Van Nguyen, Cuong; Bonsall, David; Ngo, Tue Tri; Carrique-Mas, Juan; Pham, Anh Hong; Bryant, Juliet E.; Thwaites, Guy; Baker, Stephen; Woolhouse, Mark; Simmonds, Peter

Several factors may contribute to the risk of zoonotic rodent or bat virus transmission. Rodent meat is a popular source of protein for human consumption in Vietnam, particularly in the Mekong Delta, where rats (Rattus spp. and Bandicota indica) are commonly trapped and sold live in wet markets [21] . The total annual consumption of rat meat in Vietnam is estimated at 3300-3600 tonnes [22] . Hoary bamboo rats (Rhizomys pruinosus) are additionally farmed for human consumption. Moreover, bat faeces collected from bat caves or farms is used as natural fertilizer ("guano") in Vietnam. As rodents and bats are reservoirs or carriers of a significant number of zoonotic pathogens [23] and viruses with unknown zoonotic potential, there are health risks that are associated with exposure to these animals. However, a previous study [22] showed none of the surveyed rat catchers or processors were aware of infection risks from contact with live rats. Consequently, no precautions were taken for the handling of rodents.