Evolution and Genetic Characterization of Seoul Virus in Wild Rats Rattus Norvegicus from an urban park in Lyon, France 2020-2022

Abstract

Seoul virus (SEOV) is an orthohantavirus primarily carried by rats that can cause hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) in humans. Nowaday s, its incidence is likely underestimated. We developed a comprehensive serological and molecular characterization of SEOV in Rattus norvegicus population from a popular urban park within a large city ( Park of La Tete dOr, Lyon, France) between 2020 and 2022. We confirmed the circulation of SEOV in rats from the park (seroprevalence 17.2%). The SEOV strains detected showed high genetic similar ity with the strain previously described in 2013 in this area. We found low structuring of wild rat populations within Lyon city. This study confirms the circulation of SEOV in Lyon city, in a park where opportunities for SEOV transmission to humans are numerous. Given the high gene flow between rat populations in the park and the rest of the city, we recommend conducting city-wide SEOV surveillance.