Genetic characterization of three recently discovered parvoviruses circulating in equines in China.
Authors: Ou JiaJun, Li Jinghao, Wang Xijie, Zhong Lintao, Xu Liang, Xie Jinxin, Lu Gang, Li Shoujun
Journal: Frontiers in veterinary science
Summary
# Editorial Summary: Equine Parvovirus Surveillance in China Three distinct parvoviruses—equine parvovirus-hepatitis (EqPV-H), equine parvovirus-cerebrospinal fluid (EqPV-CSF), and equine copivirus (EqCoPV)—are actively circulating among Chinese horse populations, yet their epidemiology and clinical significance remain poorly characterised within equine medicine. Researchers screened 225 equine serum samples and identified viremia in 7.6%, 2.7%, and 2.2% of cases respectively, subsequently sequencing complete genomes from multiple strains to conduct phylogenetic analysis and determine genetic relationships. Notably, EqPV-CSF and EqCoPV appear to share a common evolutionary ancestor, whilst four of six sequenced EqPV-CSF strains formed previously unidentified genetic clades distinct from foreign isolates, suggesting regional viral adaptation or divergence. The establishment of this epidemiological baseline and genetic characterisation provides essential data for understanding disease risk in international horse populations and developing surveillance protocols, though the clinical manifestations and pathogenic significance of these viruses in naturally infected horses remain to be elucidated. Equine practitioners should be aware that these parvoviruses are circulating in Asian horse herds; future research clarifying their association with clinical disease and determining transmission routes will inform quarantine protocols and herd health management strategies.
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Practical Takeaways
- •Equine practitioners in China and potentially neighbouring regions should be aware these three parvoviruses are actively circulating; consider them in differential diagnoses for hepatitis, neurological signs, or unexplained illness
- •The high prevalence of EqPV-H (7.6%) suggests biosecurity and herd health protocols should address parvovirus transmission; affected horses may need isolation and supportive care
- •Genetic characterization of local strains enables development of targeted diagnostics and vaccines; veterinarians should monitor for clinical disease clusters that might warrant genetic testing
Key Findings
- •EqPV-H detected in 7.6% (17/225) of Chinese horse serum samples, representing the most prevalent parvovirus identified
- •EqPV-CSF and EqCoPV found in 2.7% (6/225) and 2.2% (5/225) of samples respectively, suggesting co-circulation in Chinese horse populations
- •Phylogenetic analysis revealed EqPV-CSF and EqCoPV share a common ancestor, with four unique Chinese EqPV-CSF strains forming distinct genetic clades
- •Complete genomes sequenced for multiple strains provide molecular basis for epidemiological tracking and future prevention strategies