Recent findings in China have revealed a new tick-borne virus known as the Wetland virus (WELV), which presents considerable health threats, especially like neurological impairment. This virus, classified within the orthonairovirus genus, was initially identified in a 61-year-old male who displayed severe symptoms after being bitten by a tick in a wetland park in Inner Mongolia in June 2019. His case underscores the potential hazards linked to tick-borne pathogens in that area.

The Wetland virus shares close genetic ties with other dangerous tick-borne viruses, such as those responsible for Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever. The early symptoms of WELV infection are often nonspecific, typically manifesting as fever, headache, and general malaise, which complicates the diagnostic process and may result in serious complications if not recognized promptly. Laboratory studies have demonstrated that WELV can inflict significant neurological damage and even lead to mortality in infected mice and hamsters, suggesting its potential lethality in humans as well.

Following the initial case, researchers undertook comprehensive surveillance throughout northern China, resulting in the discovery of WELV in various tick species and livestock, including sheep and horses. Approximately 2% of the nearly 14,600 ticks examined were found to harbor the virus. Furthermore, antibodies to WELV were identified in 12 out of 640 forest rangers tested, indicating that human exposure to the virus is relatively common.

Wetland Virus
Image Source: Virus

The primary mode of transmission for the virus appears to be through the bite of infected ticks, particularly the Haemaphysalis concinna species, which may also transmit the virus vertically to their offspring. This situation raises concerns regarding the potential for outbreaks, especially in regions where ticks are abundant and human interactions with wildlife are frequent.

Individuals infected with Wetland Virus have reported a variety of symptoms, including:
- Fever
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- Muscle pain
- Nausea
- Diarrhea

In more severe instances, neurological symptoms such as confusion and coma have been noted, particularly in patients exhibiting elevated white blood cell counts in their cerebrospinal fluid. Laboratory analysis frequently indicate leukopenia and thrombocytopenia, which are characteristic of severe viral infections.

Comparison with the recent Pandemic virus COVID-19

COVID-19 is associated with significant respiratory illnesses, long-term health issues commonly known as "long COVID," and elevated mortality rates, especially among the elderly and individuals with pre-existing health conditions.

Wetland Virus
Image Source: Agro Eco Universum Club

Preliminary research suggests that WELV may result in serious neurological impairment and has proven fatal in animal studies. In humans, the spectrum of symptoms can vary from mild to severe, with possible complications such as confusion and coma.

Although WELV raises concerns, its restricted transmission and the absence of widespread human cases indicate that it does not pose as prevalent or immediate a risk as COVID-19. Nonetheless, the possibility of outbreaks remains, particularly in areas with high populations of ticks and increased human interaction.

You might also be interested in - Research finds viruses' effectiveness against antibiotic-resistant bacteria