Phylogenetics, Eco-epidemiology, and Evolution of Orthohantaviruses in Venezuela

Orthohantaviruses, commonly called hantaviruses, are recognized as emerging zoonotic human pathogens with a global footprint. Orthohantavirus transmission is influenced by climate, environmental factors, urbanization, rodent host ecology, and human behavior and occurs primarily through contact with infected rodents and other small mammals or their feces, urine, or nesting material. Person-to-person transmission has been described only for Andes hantavirus. These viruses target endothelial cells, impacting various organ systems through increased vascular permeability that is central to their pathogenesis. The two main clinical syndromes associated with orthohantavirus infection are prevalent in different regions worldwide: hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) generally predominates in Europe and Asia, whereas hantavirus cardiopulmonary syndrome (HCPS) is more common in the Western Hemisphere. In Venezuela, case reports from the Western plains suggest that the orthohantaviruses Caño Delgadito virus (CDGV) and Maporal virus (MAPV) can trigger both HCPS and HFRS. However, further investigations are necessary to confirm these cases as genuine CDGV and MAPV infections in humans. Ongoing research encompassing human and nonhuman hosts and potential reservoirs is imperative to deepen our understanding of Orthohantavirus evolution and epidemiology in Venezuela. Collaboration and comprehensive approaches will contribute to unraveling Orthohantavirus complexities, confirming cases, identifying hosts, and devising effective preventive strategies tailored to Venezuela’s context, ultimately safeguarding public health.