Understanding Reservoir Dynamics in the Genus Peromyscus

This thesis explores the dynamics of zoonotic reservoirs in the Peromyscus genus, illuminating their critical function in the spread of zoonotic viruses and their public health consequences. Through analysis of research publications on viruses in Peromyscus species, this study articulates a framework for synthesizing diverse types of evidence, e.g. about species-specific immune responses and ecological interactions, to determine reservoir host status. A comprehensive examination of the collected literature reveals significant gaps in the accepted meanings of "competence" and "reservoir," highlighting the intricacy of the ecology of disease. By integrating these insights with a reorganized spillover chart derived from Plowright et al. (2017) zoonotic spillover frameworks, the thesis provides a clearer understanding of transmission dynamics and advances conceptual foundations for a broader database of reservoir host species.