Effects of influenza, mumps, and western equine encephalitis viruses on fetal rhesus monkeys (Macaca mulatta)

Abstract

Pregnant Rhesus monkeys were infected via instillation of influenza, mumps and western equine encephalomyelitis viruses respectively into the amniotic sacs at approximately 90 days gestation to determine if fetal infections would occur. Virus was recovered from fetal tissues after seven days in 100% of the exposed animals. Thus, the viruses are capable of causing fetal infection. Rhesus monkey fetuses were inoculated with influenza, mumps and WEE viruses by the direct intracerebral route at approximately 90 days gestation to determine possible teratogenicity of the viruses. influenza virus caused no malformations or measurable fetal effects. Mumps virus resulted in significant fetal mortality. WEE virus resulted in a 100% incidence of encephalitis and hydrocephalus. Thus, mumps and WEE viruses are teratogens in primates and are potential teratogens of man.