A newly identified virus, named Gainesville rodent jeilong virus 1 (GRJV1), has been discovered to infect rodent, human, and nonhuman primate cells, raising concerns about potential spillover events.

The virus was found after a cat named Pepper brought a dead common cotton mouse to his owner, John Lednicky, a research professor at the University of Florida, who subsequently tested the mouse for viruses.

Experts emphasize that surveillance of emerging viral pathogens is crucial for understanding how viruses may evolve and assessing their risks to public health.

While the likelihood of a spillover event from GRJV1 is considered low due to limited human contact with wild rodents, researchers recommend further investigation into the virus's effects on wildlife and humans in Florida.

Although the health impact of GRJV1 on humans remains unknown, jeilongviruses have been linked to severe respiratory illnesses in rare cases, characterized by symptoms such as cough and fever.

Dr. Lednicky reassured the public that while existing viruses transmitted from rodent waste are rare, GRJV1 is not currently considered a significant immediate threat.

Although the mouse did not carry the deerpox virus, it was found to harbor a previously known jeilongvirus, prompting further investigation into its implications.

Emily DeRuyter, a doctoral candidate and first author of the study, highlighted the importance of ongoing wildlife surveillance to uncover undiscovered viruses circulating in animals near human habitats.

The study, published in the journal Pathogens, underscores the need for monitoring zoonotic viruses to prevent future spillover events, as some pathogens can adapt to infect humans.

The research team successfully cultured the jeilongvirus in the lab, allowing for further study of its characteristics and potential health impacts.

Pepper the cat showed no symptoms after interacting with the virus-carrying mouse, indicating that cats generally do not become ill from rodent-borne viruses, although more research is needed.

Cotton mice, which are native to the Southeastern United States, typically inhabit swamps, forests, and fields, and may occasionally enter human homes.