RESEARCH OF RABIES VIRUS IN VAMPIRE BATS, (DESMODUS ROTUNDUS) IN THE WEST REGION OF THE STATE OF SÃO PAULO, BRAZIL

• Grant number: 17/23667-1
• Support type: Regular Research Grants
• Duration: May 01, 2018 - June 30, 2020
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Microbiology - Applied Microbiology
• Principal researcher: Avelino Albas
• Grantee: Avelino Albas
• Home Institution: Departamento de Descentralização do Desenvolvimento (APTA Regional). Secretaria de Agricultura e Abastecimento (São Paulo - Estado). Campinas , SP, Brazil
• Associated scholarship(s): 19/09358-1 - Comparison of the techniques used in laboratory diagnosis of rabies: direct immunofluorescence (IFD), inoculation in mice and Reverse Transcription - Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR), BP.TT; 18/10098-1 - Comparison of the techniques used in laboratory diagnosis of rabies: direct immunofluorescence (IFD), inoculation in mice and Reverse Transcription - Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR), BP.TT

Abstract

The Laboratory of the Alta Sorocabana, Presidente Prudente, SP, Brazil, has been carrying out the laboratorial diagnosis of rabies since 1995, when it was accredited by the Ministry of Health. From that year until now, it has isolated the rabies virus from several species of non-hematophagous bats (frugivores and insectivores), which carry the majority of the antigenic variant 3 of the bat Desmodus rotundus, which is hematophagous. To evaluate the presence of rabies virus in these species of bats, they will be captured in shelters registered in the western region of the State of São Paulo. Brain tissue samples will be submitted to direct immunofluorescence and PCR assays. Serum antibodies will be measured by inhibition of rapid fluorescence focus test (RFFIT). A more in-depth study of the presence of rabies virus in these species in the region is necessary, as well as their relationship with the spread of the virus, thus avoiding the contagion of the human and animal population, mainly dogs and cats. (AU)