The distribution and prevalence of viruses in the rodent species Peromyscus maniculatus and related implications for human health

The North American deer mouse, Peromyscus maniculatus, is the most widespread mammal on the continent. It is of interest to the public health sector as a known host of several viruses which are transmissible to humans and can cause illness, including the acute respiratory disease Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS). This paper seeks to conduct a systematic review of existing literature on virus detection in wild P. maniculatus in order to develop an understanding of virus prevalence and distribution and identify potential areas of further research. Through the analysis of 22 studies published since 2010, it was found that detection effort has been concentrated on the American West with a focus on the spread of Sin Nombre virus, the causative agent of HPS. There are significant gaps in the existing literature both geographically and in regards to the types of viruses being sampled. Moving forward, a systematic approach to widespread sampling should be developed in order to better identify and minimize potential threats to human health.