The first evidence of Seoul hantavirus, hepatitis E virus and rabies virus in Rattus norvegicus in Tehran, Iran

Abstract

Aim: The present study aimed to investigate the frequency of Seoul hantavirus (SEOV), hepatitis E and rabies viruses in Norway rats in Tehran, Iran. Methods: With the aid of a rat ELISA kit, the we identified specific IgG antibodies against the rabies virus. The presence of SEOV and HEV was determined using an SYBR Green-based real-time PCR assay. Results: 1% of the Rattus norvegicus carried the rabies virus. HEV was associated with R. norvegicus obtained from the south of Tehran with the highest frequency (35%). 12% of tests for SEOV were positive. Conclusion: The findings highlight the importance of putting in place rodent control programs and avoiding interaction with rodent populations in urban settings.