Raisa Silva Raulino reveals an 8.45% prevalence of IgG in bats, highlighting their potential role in the transmission of arboviruses in Africa

A study conducted by Raisa Silva Raulino at the Institute for Research and Development identified an 8.45% prevalence of IgG in bats, suggesting their crucial role in the transmission of arboviruses in Africa. This research, validated by ABES/STAR, emphasizes the importance of increased surveillance of animal reservoirs to better anticipate health risks.

Research on arboviruses in Africa, conducted by IRD and INSERM, highlights a public health issue often underestimated. Arboviruses, responsible for severe diseases, circulate between animals and humans. The study focuses on identifying animal reservoirs, particularly primates and bats, to better understand their role in the transmission of these viruses.

Preliminary results reveal an IgG prevalence of 5% in primates, indicating that they are likely not the only reservoirs of arboviruses. In contrast, the 8.45% prevalence in bats suggests that they may play a more significant role than previously thought in the sylvatic cycle of these viruses, requiring particular attention in epidemiological studies.

The implications of this research are significant for policymakers. It underscores the need to develop surveillance systems that integrate wildlife into public health strategies. By strengthening these systems, it is possible to better anticipate and manage the risks associated with arbovirus outbreaks in Africa.

« « The prevalence of IgG in bats, reaching 8.45%, indicates their potential role in the transmission of arboviruses, which requires increased surveillance, » says Raisa Silva Raulino. »

« « This research highlights the importance of accessing reliable data to inform the decisions of public health actors in Africa, » emphasizes the Lektaris team. »