Lymphocytic choriomeningitis viruses (LCMV) are a group of rodent-borne viruses that belong to the family Arenaviridae. These viruses are known to infect a variety of rodents, including rats, mice, hamsters, and guinea pigs. LCMV can also infect humans and is considered an important zoonotic pathogen.
The virus is primarily transmitted to humans through contact with infected rodents or through exposure to their urine, droppings, saliva, or nesting materials. In some cases, LCMV can be transmitted from mother to fetus during pregnancy or through organ transplantation. Person-to-person transmission has been reported in rare instances, but it is not a common route of infection.
Once in the human body, LCMV can cause a wide range of symptoms, ranging from mild flu-like illness to more severe manifestations such as meningitis, encephalitis, or even fetal abnormalities in pregnant women. Immunocompromised individuals, such as those with weakened immune systems, are more susceptible to severe forms of the disease.
Diagnosis of LCMV is typically done through laboratory testing, including the detection of specific antibodies or viral RNA in blood, cerebrospinal fluid, or other bodily samples. There is no specific antiviral treatment available for LCMV infections, so management usually involves supportive care to relieve symptoms and complications.
Prevention of LCMV involves practicing good hygiene, such as washing hands after handling rodents, avoiding contact with wild rodents or their droppings, and keeping rodents as pets in proper and clean housing conditions.
