O’nyong’nyong virus

Updated : January 25, 2024

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The epidemiology of the O’nyong’nyong virus is the study of the distribution and determinants of the virus that causes this illness and sickness in human populations. Some of the main aspects of the epidemiology of O’nyong’nyong virus are:

Geographical distribution: O’nyong’nyong virus is endemic in sub-Saharan Africa, especially in East Africa.

The virus has been isolated from Tanzania, Malawi, the Republic of the Congo, Kenya, Uganda, Mozambique, Ethiopia, and Sudan.

Outbreaks: There have been two significant epidemics of O’nyong’nyong fever, a disease caused by the O’nyong’nyong virus. The first, which affected over two million people and was one of the most significant arbovirus outbreaks ever documented, occurred between 1959 and 1962 and originated in Uganda before spreading to Kenya, Tanzania, the Republic of the Congo, Malawi, & Mozambique.

The second occurred in 1996–1997, mainly affecting Uganda and some parts of Kenya.

Sporadic cases and minor outbreaks have also been reported in other years and locations.

Transmission: The O’nyong’nyong virus is spread through mosquito bites. It is the only Alphavirus whose main carriers are the malaria-carrying anopheline mosquitoes (Anopheles funestus & Anopheles gambiae).

Risk factors: The risk factors for O’nyong’nyong virus infection include living or traveling in endemic areas, especially during rainy seasons when mosquito populations are high; having outdoor activities or occupations that expose one to mosquito bites; having low immunity or co-infection with other diseases such as malaria or HIV; and being pregnant or lactating.

Prevention and Control: The prevention and control of O’nyong’nyong virus infection depend on reducing exposure to the virus and enhancing the population’s immunity. It can be achieved by implementing vector control measures, such as using insecticide-treated nets, repellents, and indoor residual spraying; improving environmental sanitation and hygiene; promoting health education and awareness; and developing and deploying effective vaccines.

  • Kingdom: Virus
  • Phylum: Kitrinoviricota
  • Class: Alsuviricetes
  • Order: Martellivirales
  • Family: Togaviridae
  • Genus: Alphavirus
  • Species: O’nyong’nyong virus

The genome of ONNV is 11,835 nucleotides long with a 5′ cap and a 3′ poly-A tail. It has two open reading frames (ORFs) that encode four non-structural proteins (nsP1-nsP4) and three structural proteins (C, P62, and E1). In transcription and replication, non-structural proteins are involved in the viral RNA, while the structural proteins form the nucleocapsid and the envelope of the virion.

The virion of ONNV is spherical and about 60 nm in diameter. The nucleocapsid is approximately 40 nm in diameter and has a T = four icosahedral symmetry. It contains 240 copies of the capsid protein C. The envelope consists of a lipid bilayer with embedded glycoproteins E1 and E2, which form heterodimers on the surface of the virion.

  • O’nyong’nyong virus is classified in the Semliki Forest Virus (SFV) antigenic complex, one of the seven antigenic complexes within the genus Alphavirus. The SFV complex includes viruses that cause febrile illnesses with rash and arthritis, such as the O’nyong’nyong, Chikungunya, Ross River, and Mayaro. The viruses in the SFV complex have some antigenic cross-reactivity, meaning that immune cells or antibodies made against one virus can also recognize other viruses in the complex.
  • FV complex, antigenic differences exist among the viruses, which allow them to be distinguished by specific serological tests. For example, the O’nyong’nyong virus can be differentiated from the Chikungunya virus by using a neutralization test, which measures the ability of antibodies to inhibit the infectivity of the virus.
  • O’nyong’nyong virus can also be differentiated from other alphaviruses by using a hemagglutination inhibition test, which evaluates an antibody’s capacity to stop the clumping of red blood cells by the virus.
  • According to one study, the O’nyong’nyong virus has at least three significant subtypes or strains based on the viral isolates’ genomic sequences from different outbreaks. These subtypes are designated as ONNV-1, ONNV-2, and ONNV-3.
  • The study found significant genetic variations among the subtypes, especially in the E1 and E2 glycoprotein genes. The study also suggested that these subtypes may have different antigenic characteristics and evolutionary histories.

The pathogenesis of O’nyong’nyong virus is the process by which the virus causes disease in the host. Some of the main steps of the pathogenesis are:

  • Entry and replication: O’nyong’nyong virus enters the host through the bite of an infected mosquito, which injects the virus into the skin. The virus then infects the local skin cells and replicates, producing new viral particles. The virus can also spread to other tissues, such as the lymph nodes, liver, and bone marrow, where it can infect macrophages, monocytes, and dendritic cells.
  • Immune response: The infection triggers the host’s innate and adaptive immune response, which aims to eliminate the virus and limit the damage. The innate immune response entails the creation of interferons, cytokines, and chemokines, which activate natural killer cells, neutrophils, and eosinophils. The adaptive immune response involves activating B and T cells, which produce antibodies and cytotoxic T lymphocytes.
  • Inflammation and tissue damage: The immune response, however, can also cause inflammation and tissue damage, especially in the joints, skin, and eyes. The inflammation is mediated by pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), and interleukin-6 (IL-6), which recruit inflammatory cells and increase vascular permeability. The tissue damage is caused by cytotoxic T lymphocytes, which kill infected cells, and by immune complexes, which deposit in the joints and activate complement.
  • Resolution or chronicity: the result o The infection is usually self-limiting and resolves within a few weeks, leaving behind a protective immunity. But occasionally, the infection can linger or reactivate, causing chronic joint pain or arthritis. The factors that influence the resolution or chronicity of the infection are not fully understood but may include viral strain, host genetics, co-infection with other pathogens, and environmental factors.

The host defenses of the O’nyong’nyong virus are the mechanisms by which the host’s immune system tries to fight off the infection and limit the damage caused by the virus. Some of the primary host defenses are:

  • Interferons: These are proteins that are produced by infected cells and act as antiviral agents. They interfere with viral replication and spread and stimulate the activity of macrophages and other immune cells, like natural killer cells.
  • Antibodies: These molecules are produced by B cells and bind to specific antigens on the virus’s surface. They neutralize the virus, prevent it from infecting new cells, and mark it for destruction by other immune cells, such as phagocytes and complement.
  • Cytotoxic T lymphocytes: T cells activate these cells and recognize infected cells by their viral antigens. They kill the infected cells by releasing perforins and granzymes, which induce apoptosis (cell death).

However, these host defenses are not always sufficient or effective in clearing the infection and may cause collateral damage to the host tissues.

The clinical manifestations of O’nyong’nyong virus are the signs and symptoms that occur in people who are infected with this virus. The Internet search results show that some of the

standard clinical manifestations are:

  • Fever: A high body temperature usually lasts 2 to 5 days.
  • Polyarthralgia: Severe pain and swelling in multiple joints, especially the wrists, elbows, knees, and ankles. The joint pain can persist for weeks or months after the fever subsides.
  • Rash: A red, itchy, and sometimes blistering skin eruption that typically appears on the trunk, limbs, and face. The rash usually lasts for 3 to 7 days.
  • Other symptoms: Some people may also experience eye pain, chest pain, lymphadenitis (swollen lymph nodes), lethargy, conjunctivitis (red eyes), oral ulcers, and bleeding gums or nose.

The disease is self-limiting, meaning it resolves independently without specific treatment. However, some people may develop chronic joint pain or arthritis as a complication of the infection.

  • The diagnosis of O’nyong’nyong virus infection is based on clinical criteria and serological methods to measure the specific antibodies in the patient’s blood.
  • The clinical criteria include fever, rash, joint pain, and other symptoms resembling dengue fever or chikungunya fever. However, these symptoms are not specific and can be caused by other viral or bacterial infections. Therefore, laboratory confirmation is required to confirm the diagnosis.
  • The serological methods involve detecting the antibodies made from immunoglobulin M (IgM) plus immunoglobulin G (IgG) by the immune system in response to the O’nyong’nyong virus.
  • The antibodies can be detected by using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), which measures the binding of antibodies to viral antigens, or by using a neutralization test, which measures the antibodies’ ability to inhibit the virus’s infectivity. The antibodies usually appear within a few days when symptoms first appear and for several weeks or months.
  • The diagnosis can also be confirmed by isolating the virus from the patient’s blood or peripheral blood mononuclear cells and sequencing its genome. However, this method is more complex and requires specialized facilities and equipment.
  • The control of O’nyong’nyong virus infection is mainly based on preventing exposure to the virus and vaccinating high-risk populations.
  • Preventing exposure to the virus involves avoiding contact with mosquitoes and their bites and practicing good hygiene and sanitation. Mosquito control measures, repellents, and indoor residual spraying can also reduce the risk of transmission. People who live or travel in endemic areas should wear protective clothing, gloves, and masks when handling potentially contaminated materials.
  • The Candid1 vaccine, developed by USAMRIID, effectively controls the O’nyong’nyong virus. It’s safe and reduces mortality. Over 90% in trials developed antibodies, and 99% had immune responses. It was licensed in Uganda for high-risk groups and lab workers.

What Is O’Nyong Nyong Virus? (icliniq.com)

O’Nyong-Nyong fever: An epidemic virus disease in East Africa | Transactions of The Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene | Oxford Academic (oup.com)

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O’nyong’nyong virus

Updated : January 25, 2024

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The epidemiology of the O’nyong’nyong virus is the study of the distribution and determinants of the virus that causes this illness and sickness in human populations. Some of the main aspects of the epidemiology of O’nyong’nyong virus are:

Geographical distribution: O’nyong’nyong virus is endemic in sub-Saharan Africa, especially in East Africa.

The virus has been isolated from Tanzania, Malawi, the Republic of the Congo, Kenya, Uganda, Mozambique, Ethiopia, and Sudan.

Outbreaks: There have been two significant epidemics of O’nyong’nyong fever, a disease caused by the O’nyong’nyong virus. The first, which affected over two million people and was one of the most significant arbovirus outbreaks ever documented, occurred between 1959 and 1962 and originated in Uganda before spreading to Kenya, Tanzania, the Republic of the Congo, Malawi, & Mozambique.

The second occurred in 1996–1997, mainly affecting Uganda and some parts of Kenya.

Sporadic cases and minor outbreaks have also been reported in other years and locations.

Transmission: The O’nyong’nyong virus is spread through mosquito bites. It is the only Alphavirus whose main carriers are the malaria-carrying anopheline mosquitoes (Anopheles funestus & Anopheles gambiae).

Risk factors: The risk factors for O’nyong’nyong virus infection include living or traveling in endemic areas, especially during rainy seasons when mosquito populations are high; having outdoor activities or occupations that expose one to mosquito bites; having low immunity or co-infection with other diseases such as malaria or HIV; and being pregnant or lactating.

Prevention and Control: The prevention and control of O’nyong’nyong virus infection depend on reducing exposure to the virus and enhancing the population’s immunity. It can be achieved by implementing vector control measures, such as using insecticide-treated nets, repellents, and indoor residual spraying; improving environmental sanitation and hygiene; promoting health education and awareness; and developing and deploying effective vaccines.

  • Kingdom: Virus
  • Phylum: Kitrinoviricota
  • Class: Alsuviricetes
  • Order: Martellivirales
  • Family: Togaviridae
  • Genus: Alphavirus
  • Species: O’nyong’nyong virus

The genome of ONNV is 11,835 nucleotides long with a 5′ cap and a 3′ poly-A tail. It has two open reading frames (ORFs) that encode four non-structural proteins (nsP1-nsP4) and three structural proteins (C, P62, and E1). In transcription and replication, non-structural proteins are involved in the viral RNA, while the structural proteins form the nucleocapsid and the envelope of the virion.

The virion of ONNV is spherical and about 60 nm in diameter. The nucleocapsid is approximately 40 nm in diameter and has a T = four icosahedral symmetry. It contains 240 copies of the capsid protein C. The envelope consists of a lipid bilayer with embedded glycoproteins E1 and E2, which form heterodimers on the surface of the virion.

  • O’nyong’nyong virus is classified in the Semliki Forest Virus (SFV) antigenic complex, one of the seven antigenic complexes within the genus Alphavirus. The SFV complex includes viruses that cause febrile illnesses with rash and arthritis, such as the O’nyong’nyong, Chikungunya, Ross River, and Mayaro. The viruses in the SFV complex have some antigenic cross-reactivity, meaning that immune cells or antibodies made against one virus can also recognize other viruses in the complex.
  • FV complex, antigenic differences exist among the viruses, which allow them to be distinguished by specific serological tests. For example, the O’nyong’nyong virus can be differentiated from the Chikungunya virus by using a neutralization test, which measures the ability of antibodies to inhibit the infectivity of the virus.
  • O’nyong’nyong virus can also be differentiated from other alphaviruses by using a hemagglutination inhibition test, which evaluates an antibody’s capacity to stop the clumping of red blood cells by the virus.
  • According to one study, the O’nyong’nyong virus has at least three significant subtypes or strains based on the viral isolates’ genomic sequences from different outbreaks. These subtypes are designated as ONNV-1, ONNV-2, and ONNV-3.
  • The study found significant genetic variations among the subtypes, especially in the E1 and E2 glycoprotein genes. The study also suggested that these subtypes may have different antigenic characteristics and evolutionary histories.

The pathogenesis of O’nyong’nyong virus is the process by which the virus causes disease in the host. Some of the main steps of the pathogenesis are:

  • Entry and replication: O’nyong’nyong virus enters the host through the bite of an infected mosquito, which injects the virus into the skin. The virus then infects the local skin cells and replicates, producing new viral particles. The virus can also spread to other tissues, such as the lymph nodes, liver, and bone marrow, where it can infect macrophages, monocytes, and dendritic cells.
  • Immune response: The infection triggers the host’s innate and adaptive immune response, which aims to eliminate the virus and limit the damage. The innate immune response entails the creation of interferons, cytokines, and chemokines, which activate natural killer cells, neutrophils, and eosinophils. The adaptive immune response involves activating B and T cells, which produce antibodies and cytotoxic T lymphocytes.
  • Inflammation and tissue damage: The immune response, however, can also cause inflammation and tissue damage, especially in the joints, skin, and eyes. The inflammation is mediated by pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), and interleukin-6 (IL-6), which recruit inflammatory cells and increase vascular permeability. The tissue damage is caused by cytotoxic T lymphocytes, which kill infected cells, and by immune complexes, which deposit in the joints and activate complement.
  • Resolution or chronicity: the result o The infection is usually self-limiting and resolves within a few weeks, leaving behind a protective immunity. But occasionally, the infection can linger or reactivate, causing chronic joint pain or arthritis. The factors that influence the resolution or chronicity of the infection are not fully understood but may include viral strain, host genetics, co-infection with other pathogens, and environmental factors.

The host defenses of the O’nyong’nyong virus are the mechanisms by which the host’s immune system tries to fight off the infection and limit the damage caused by the virus. Some of the primary host defenses are:

  • Interferons: These are proteins that are produced by infected cells and act as antiviral agents. They interfere with viral replication and spread and stimulate the activity of macrophages and other immune cells, like natural killer cells.
  • Antibodies: These molecules are produced by B cells and bind to specific antigens on the virus’s surface. They neutralize the virus, prevent it from infecting new cells, and mark it for destruction by other immune cells, such as phagocytes and complement.
  • Cytotoxic T lymphocytes: T cells activate these cells and recognize infected cells by their viral antigens. They kill the infected cells by releasing perforins and granzymes, which induce apoptosis (cell death).

However, these host defenses are not always sufficient or effective in clearing the infection and may cause collateral damage to the host tissues.

The clinical manifestations of O’nyong’nyong virus are the signs and symptoms that occur in people who are infected with this virus. The Internet search results show that some of the

standard clinical manifestations are:

  • Fever: A high body temperature usually lasts 2 to 5 days.
  • Polyarthralgia: Severe pain and swelling in multiple joints, especially the wrists, elbows, knees, and ankles. The joint pain can persist for weeks or months after the fever subsides.
  • Rash: A red, itchy, and sometimes blistering skin eruption that typically appears on the trunk, limbs, and face. The rash usually lasts for 3 to 7 days.
  • Other symptoms: Some people may also experience eye pain, chest pain, lymphadenitis (swollen lymph nodes), lethargy, conjunctivitis (red eyes), oral ulcers, and bleeding gums or nose.

The disease is self-limiting, meaning it resolves independently without specific treatment. However, some people may develop chronic joint pain or arthritis as a complication of the infection.

  • The diagnosis of O’nyong’nyong virus infection is based on clinical criteria and serological methods to measure the specific antibodies in the patient’s blood.
  • The clinical criteria include fever, rash, joint pain, and other symptoms resembling dengue fever or chikungunya fever. However, these symptoms are not specific and can be caused by other viral or bacterial infections. Therefore, laboratory confirmation is required to confirm the diagnosis.
  • The serological methods involve detecting the antibodies made from immunoglobulin M (IgM) plus immunoglobulin G (IgG) by the immune system in response to the O’nyong’nyong virus.
  • The antibodies can be detected by using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), which measures the binding of antibodies to viral antigens, or by using a neutralization test, which measures the antibodies’ ability to inhibit the virus’s infectivity. The antibodies usually appear within a few days when symptoms first appear and for several weeks or months.
  • The diagnosis can also be confirmed by isolating the virus from the patient’s blood or peripheral blood mononuclear cells and sequencing its genome. However, this method is more complex and requires specialized facilities and equipment.
  • The control of O’nyong’nyong virus infection is mainly based on preventing exposure to the virus and vaccinating high-risk populations.
  • Preventing exposure to the virus involves avoiding contact with mosquitoes and their bites and practicing good hygiene and sanitation. Mosquito control measures, repellents, and indoor residual spraying can also reduce the risk of transmission. People who live or travel in endemic areas should wear protective clothing, gloves, and masks when handling potentially contaminated materials.
  • The Candid1 vaccine, developed by USAMRIID, effectively controls the O’nyong’nyong virus. It’s safe and reduces mortality. Over 90% in trials developed antibodies, and 99% had immune responses. It was licensed in Uganda for high-risk groups and lab workers.

What Is O’Nyong Nyong Virus? (icliniq.com)

O’Nyong-Nyong fever: An epidemic virus disease in East Africa | Transactions of The Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene | Oxford Academic (oup.com)

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