Study of How Foamy Viruses Spread from Monkeys to Humans in Rural Cameroon Understanding Early Virus Transmission and Infection Characteristics

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating the transmission of simian foamy viruses from monkeys to humans, focusing on populations at risk in rural areas of southern Cameroon. These viruses, which come from nonhuman primates sharing many biological traits with humans, have historically crossed species boundaries and contributed to viral diseases such as HIV. The study aims to better understand how foamy viruses spread to humans, especially through frequent contact like hunting, and to explore early stages of viral emergence and possible family transmission. The study includes several phases initially, adults living in rural Cameroon are tested for foamy virus infection through blood samples and questionnaires about contact with nonhuman primates. In subsequent phases, family members of infected individuals are also studied to assess intrafamilial transmission. Additional clinical and biological examinations, including saliva collection and detailed blood tests, are conducted on infected participants at a central facility. The study covers both infected and uninfected adults living in these forested areas. Participants will undergo physical exams and blood draws multiple times throughout the study. Researchers collect epidemiological data via questionnaires and analyze biological samples for antibodies and viral DNA. The main outcomes measured include the presence of specific antibodies and viral DNA in blood over a three-year period. The study also monitors clinical and immunological features of infected individuals and evaluates potential risk factors. Transportation, accommodation, and meals are provided for visits requiring travel to the central study location.

Simian Foamy Virus Transmission to Humans