Domestic, Wildlife and Environmental Virology: Molecular Epidemiology and Serological Surveillance

Epidemiological surveillance is crucial, not only to assess pathogen geographic distribution but also to understand the ecology, impact and dynamics of the diseases, allowing a better population management and prophylaxis. Our Microbiology and Immunology Laboratory has been involved in the phylogeographical analysis and molecular detection of viruses (Parvovirus, Canine Distemper Virus, Coronaviruses, Feline Immunodeficiency Virus) affecting wild and domestic carnivores as well as Herpesvirus and Morbillivirus affecting marine animals (marine turtles; cetaceans; sea lions). This work involved the development of specific molecular assays and phylogenetic methodologies to evaluate the pathogen prevalence and geographic distribution as well as the phylogeographic patterns of the viral sequences.