Transmission of West Nile (B956 Strain) and Semliki Forest Virus (MBB26146-M-404744-958 Strain) to Suckling Hamsters During Lactation

Abstract

From this observation it appears that West Nile virus and Semliki Forest virus may be transmitted from lactating hamsters to suckling hamsters. One hundred per cent of the mothers from both virus groups showed symptoms of central nervous system involvement from 9 to 10 days after exposure to the respective viruses. Thirteen of 18 suckling hamsters in the West Nile group developed West Nile disease, and 11 of 16 in the Semliki Forest group developed Semliki Forest symptoms.