Spondweni virus causes fetal harm in a mouse model of vertical transmission and is transmitted byAedes aegyptimosquitoes

Abstract

AbstractSpondweni virus (SPONV) is the most closely related known flavivirus to Zika virus (ZIKV). Its pathogenic potential and vector specificity have not been well defined. SPONV has been found predominantly in Africa, but was recently detected in a pool ofCulex quinquefasciatusmosquitoes in Haiti. Here we show that SPONV can cause significant fetal harm, including demise, comparable to ZIKV, in a mouse model of vertical transmission. Following maternal inoculation, we detected infectious SPONV in placentas and fetuses, along with significant fetal and placental histopathology, together indicating vertical transmission. To test vector competence, we exposedAedes aegyptiandCulex quinquefasciatusmosquitoes to SPONV-infected bloodmeals.Aedes aegypticould efficiently transmit SPONV, whereasCulex quinquefasciatuscould not. Our results suggest that SPONV has the same features that made ZIKV a public health risk.