Junín virus and Argentine haemorrhagic fever: Virology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, and prevention strategies.

Abstract

The Junin virus (JUNV) is mainly perpetuated in nature by rodent reservoirs, especially Calomys musculinus, and is transmitted to humans through aerosolization of contaminated rodent excreta. Clinical presentation of Argentine haemorrhagic fever (AHF) is characterized by an incubation period of about 7-14 days and several clinical manifestations such as fever, malaise, hematological abnormalities, hemorrhagic symptoms and neurological complications. The current review summarizes the current knowledge on the taxonomy, structure, genome structure, transmission dynamics, pathogenesis, clinical syndrome, and diagnostic methods that are related to JUNV infection. Special emphasis is on the progress in the sphere of molecular diagnostics, immune plasma therapy, and antiviral studies. The introduction of the Candid #1 live attenuated vaccine is a significant step towards the prevention of the AHF and has greatly reduced the prevalence of the disease among the endemic populations. Recent scientific advances, such as reverse genetics systems, genomic surveillance, and new therapeutic strategies, have added to the knowledge of the biology of JUNV and its interplay with the host immune system. Nonetheless, there are still challenges because of further spreading of the viruses among the rodents (reservoirs), inability to develop specific antiviral therapies, and the potential of other related arenaviruses. Argentine hemorrhagic fever needs to be prevented, diagnosed and controlled by further research, enhanced surveillance systems and enhanced vaccination.