Skip to main content
WCS
Menu
Library
Library Catalog
eJournals & eBooks
WCS Research
Archives
Research Use
Finding Aids
Digital Collections
WCS History
WCS Research
Research Publications
Science Data
Services for WCS Researchers
Archives Shop
Bronx Zoo
Department of Tropical Research
Browse By Product
About Us
FAQs
Intern or Volunteer
Staff
Donate
Search WCS.org
Search
search
Popular Search Terms
WCS History
Library and Archives
Library and Archives Menu
Library
Archives
WCS Research
Archives Shop
About Us
Donate
en
fr
Title
Zoonotic viruses associated with illegally imported wildlife products
Author(s)
Smith, K. M.;Anthony, S. J.;Switzer, W. M.;Epstein, J. H.;Seimon, T.;Jia, H.;Sanchez, M. D.;Huynh, T. T.;Galland, G. G.;Shapiro, S. E.;Sleeman, J. M.;McAloose, D.;Stuchin, M.;Amato, G.;Kolokotronis, S. O.;Lipkin, W. I.;Karesh, W. B.;Daszak, P.;Marano, N.
Published
2012
Publisher
PLoS ONE
Published Version DOI
https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0029505
Abstract
The global trade in wildlife has historically contributed to the emergence and spread of infectious diseases. The United States is the world's largest importer of wildlife and wildlife products, yet minimal pathogen surveillance has precluded assessment of the health risks posed by this practice. This report details the findings of a pilot project to establish surveillance methodology for zoonotic agents in confiscated wildlife products. Initial findings from samples collected at several international airports identified parts originating from nonhuman primate (NHP) and rodent species, including baboon, chimpanzee, mangabey, guenon, green monkey, cane rat and rat. Pathogen screening identified retroviruses (simian foamy virus) and/or herpesviruses (cytomegalovirus and lymphocryptovirus) in the NHP samples. These results are the first demonstration that illegal bushmeat importation into the United States could act as a conduit for pathogen spread, and suggest that implementation of disease surveillance of the wildlife trade will help facilitate prevention of disease emergence.
Access Full Text
A full-text copy of this article may be available. Please email the
WCS Library
to request.
Back
PUB14771