Identification, Characterization, and Homology Analysis of a Novel Strain of the Crimean–Congo Hemorrhagic Fever Virus from Yunnan, China

Abstract

Wildlife serve as potential microbial reservoirs, accounting for approximately 70% of emerging infectious diseases. Crimean–Congo hemorrhagic fever virus (CCHFV), which causes Crimean–Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) in humans, is a highly pathogenic tick-borne virus prevalent in several parts of Asia, Africa, and Europe with high case fatality rates. Several CCHFV cases have been reported in Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and Southern and Eastern Europe. The disease is endemic in several parts of western China, particularly Xinjiang. Ticks of the genus Hyalomma have been identified as a principal vector and reservoir for CCHFV, although other tick species may also have a crucial role in maintaining CCHFV in endemic regions. On infection, CCHF begins as a nonspecific febrile illness that can progress to severe hemorrhagic manifestations with a higher case fatality due to the unavailability of vaccines or other therapeutic agents. In this study, we collected tissue samples from a wild dead Chinese serow (Capricornis milneedwardsii) and three Naemorhedus griseuses from Deqin County, Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan, China, to investigate for contagious viruses that could be transmitted to humans. We identified a novel CCHFV strain, YNDQL-415G, in the liver tissue of a dead C. milneedwardsii. We performed nucleotide and amino acid sequence homology on the full-length viral genome. The results revealed significant homology between the viral S segment to that of the Africa1 strain, while the M and L segments showed similarity with the Asia CCHFV strain, indicating potential gene reassortment in the YNDQL-415G strain. The genetic characterization of a novel CCHFV strain from a dead C. milneedwardsii raises concerns about the possibility of a new zoonotic infection. A regular survey program is recommended to track the distribution of wild animals as well as the viruses they may transmit to humans and other domestic mammals in the region.