Lagos Bat Virus, an Under-Reported Rabies-Related Lyssavirus

Lagos bat virus (LBV), one of the 17 accepted viral species of the Lyssavirus genus, was the first rabies-related virus described in 1956. This virus is endemic to the African continent and is rarely encountered. There are currently four lineages, although the observed genetic diversity exceeds existing lyssavirus species demarcation criteria. Several exposures to rabid bats infected with LBV have been reported; however, no known human cases have been reported to date. This review provides the history of LBV and summarizes previous knowledge as well as new detections. Genetic diversity, pathogenesis and prevention are re-evaluated and discussed.

Automated summary

Lagos bat virus is a viral species endemic to the African continent, with four lineages and genetic diversity that exceeds existing lyssavirus species demarcation criteria. Despite several exposures to rabid bats infected with LBV, no human cases have been reported to date. This review provides a history of LBV, summarizes previous knowledge, and re-evaluates genetic diversity, pathogenesis, and prevention.