Reptarenavirus

Enveloped segmented RNA virus of the Arenaviridae. Multiple genotypes typically co-infect the same animal.

Direct contact, and probably vertically and via snake mites (Ophionyssus natricis). Boas may carry and shed the virus for years while appearing healthy.

• Eosinophilic intracytoplasmic inclusion bodies in many tissues, diagnostic on histology
• Non-suppurative meningoencephalitis
• Lymphoproliferative disease and secondary infections from immune suppression
• Chronic pneumonia in pythons

• Regurgitation, chronic weight loss
• Star-gazing, loss of righting reflex, disorientation
• Stomatitis and recurrent respiratory infections

• Test every boid before entry to a collection and after any mite infestation
• Eradicate snake mites aggressively
• House boas and pythons separately; never share tools between them
• Do not breed positive animals — remove them from the breeding programme

PCR detects reptarenavirus nucleic acid in the submitted sample. A negative result means that reptarenavirus was not detected in that sample at the time of testing. As viral shedding and distribution may vary, a single negative result cannot completely exclude infection. In situations with increased risk or clinical suspicion, repeat testing and/or additional diagnostic evaluation may be appropriate.

Blood smear examination for characteristic inclusion bodies may provide complementary information in boas when BIBD is suspected. This requires blood sampling and is not part of the current ERHR screening service.

None. The disease is progressive and fatal; euthanasia is often the humane outcome in clinically affected animals. Management focuses on preventing spread within the collection.