A Novel Jeilongvirus from Florida, USA, Has a Broad Host Cell Tropism Including Human and Non-Human Primate Cells

A novel jeilongvirus was identified through next-generation sequencing in cell cultures inoculated with spleen and kidney extracts. The spleen and kidney were obtained from a <i>Peromyscus gossypinus</i> rodent (cotton mouse) found dead in the city of Gainesville, in North-Central Florida, USA. Jeilongviruses are paramyxoviruses of the subfamily <i>Orthoparamyxovirinae</i> that have been found in bats, cats, and rodents. We designated the virus we discovered as Gainesville rodent jeilong virus 1 (GRJV1). Preliminary results indicate that GRJV1 can complete its life cycle in various human, non-human primate, and rodent cell lines, suggesting that the virus has a generalist nature with the potential for a spillover event. The early detection of endemic viruses circulating within hosts in North-Central Florida can significantly enhance surveillance efforts, thereby bolstering our ability to monitor and respond to potential outbreaks effectively.