Rats are known to be among the most successful fellow travelers in human history, and a recent incident involving a stowaway rat on a flight from Miami to Berlin has shed light on the hidden global health risks associated with these rodents. The rat, captured and examined by researchers at the Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut (FLI), was found to be a carrier of various pathogens, including Leptospira interrogans (leptospirosis), Streptobacillus moniliformis (rat-bite fever), Seoul orthohantavirus, and the rat hepatitis E virus.
While the rat did not carry the most feared rat-borne pathogens, the discovery of a methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) strain in its nose and intestines raised concerns. Whole-genome sequencing revealed that the strain was nearly identical to those found in humans in Europe and North America, indicating potential transmission between humans and rats.
The comprehensive pathogen screening conducted on the rat involved bacterial cultures, high-throughput sequencing, and specific methods such as PCR and RT-PCR. While no major pathogens were detected, the presence of opportunistic pathogens and new viral genome segments of the Picobirnaviridae family highlighted the potential risks associated with animal stowaways on international flights.
The study emphasized the need for standardized laboratory workflows for comprehensive pathogen screening in cases of animal stowaways, as well as immediate capture and containment of such animals in line with international regulations. Rats were identified as active players in the global network of pathogen spread, especially with the increase in global air travel facilitating their movement across continents.
Moving forward, researchers aim to use genetic analysis to trace the origins of stowaway animals and consider rats as important indicators of ecosystem health. The incident served as a wake-up call, highlighting the vulnerability of our interconnected world to the spread of hidden pathogens and the importance of scientific solutions in addressing these risks.
The findings of the study were published in the journal Scientific Reports, providing valuable insights into the potential health risks associated with animal stowaways on international flights. The research was conducted by scientists from the German Center for Infection Research (DZIF) and the “Rodent-borne Pathogens (NaÜPa-net)” network, showcasing the collaborative efforts to address emerging infectious diseases and global health threats.
