Mink Encephalopathy Virus (MEV) is a contagious and fatal neurological disease that affects minks, which are small, semiaquatic mammals closely related to ferrets and weasels. MEV is classified as a neurotropic virus, meaning it primarily targets and infects nerve tissue, particularly in the brain, leading to encephalopathy or inflammation of the brain.
This viral infection is characterized by progressive neurologic signs, including ataxia (loss of coordination), behavioral changes, involuntary movements, and ultimately, death. Minks infected with MEV may also display excessive salivation, tremors, and seizures. The disease is primarily transmitted through direct contact between infected and susceptible minks, with an incubation period ranging from a few days to a few months.
MEV is believed to be similar to transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs) found in other animal species, such as bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) in cattle and Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD) in humans. However, further research is needed to fully understand the nature and mechanisms of the virus.
Efforts to control the spread of MEV in mink populations involve strict biosecurity measures, quarantine protocols, and culling of affected animals. There is currently no known treatment or vaccine available for MEV, making prevention and surveillance crucial to limiting its impact on mink farming industries worldwide.
