What viruses can be caused by consuming wild game?
Nov 24, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. He Haochen
Introduction
In general, viruses transmitted through consuming wild game include avian influenza virus, SARS virus, Ebola virus, Nipah virus, and Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV). Patients are advised to receive symptomatic treatment as directed by a healthcare provider. In addition, other viruses associated with eating wild game include HIV and Zika virus. If patients develop any symptoms of illness, they should seek medical attention at a hospital promptly to avoid delays in diagnosis and treatment.
Generally, viruses transmitted through consuming wild game include avian influenza virus, SARS virus, Ebola virus, Nipah virus, and Middle East Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV). Patients are advised to follow medical guidance for symptomatic treatment. Specific analysis is as follows:
1. Avian Influenza Virus
The avian influenza virus may be transmitted by eating wild birds infected with the virus. Symptoms in humans may include fever, cough, sore throat, and muscle pain.
2. SARS Virus
The origin of SARS is traced back to the Chinese horseshoe bat. Civets become infected after contact with these bats and then transmit the virus to humans. SARS is an acute, highly contagious disease with a high fatality rate. Most infected individuals have either had direct or indirect contact with patients or reside in affected areas. Clinical manifestations include hypoxia, cyanosis, high fever above 38°C, rapid breathing or respiratory distress syndrome, and shortness of breath. Chest X-rays show varying degrees of pulmonary changes. Patients may take medications such as ribavirin tablets or isatis root granules as directed by a physician.
3. Ebola Virus
Ebola virus is a severe infectious agent causing Ebola hemorrhagic fever in humans and primates. Currently, there is no specific effective treatment available.
4. Nipah Virus
Nipah virus is a newly emerged zoonotic virus. It is an RNA virus belonging to the Paramyxoviridae family and can cause widespread vasculitis. Infected individuals may experience symptoms such as fever, severe headache, and meningitis, posing serious threats to both human and animal health.
5. Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV)
MERS-CoV was initially found in certain African bats. Some North African dromedary camels became infected after accidental contact with virus-carrying bats. Through trade between North Africa and the Middle East, camel caravans introduced the virus into the Middle East region. Infected camels further spread the virus to other camels via nasal secretions, eventually leading to human infections.
In addition, other viruses associated with consuming wild game include HIV and Zika virus. If patients develop any discomfort symptoms, it is recommended they seek timely medical attention at a hospital to avoid delays in diagnosis and treatment.
