A breakthrough study by an emerging researcher at the University of the Free State (UFS) has identified a tick-borne virus previously undocumented in Southern Africa. The discovery deepens understanding of pathogens that may pose risks to both human and animal health and highlights the importance of sustained surveillance in the region.

Expanding knowledge of emerging pathogens

The research formed part of Dr Gernus Terblanche’s PhD in Virology, completed under the South African Research Chair in Vector-Borne and Zoonotic Pathogens Research, led by Prof Felicity Burt. His study investigated the diversity of ticks collected from livestock in the Free State and Eastern Cape and screened them for signs of viral infection.

Using MinION sequencing and a SMART-9N technique, Dr Terblanche and his collaborators identified a virus belonging to the Orthoflaviviridae family with a segmented genome. The virus has been gaining international attention due to detections across multiple regions and tick species but has not previously been reported in Southern Africa.

According to Dr Terblanche, this finding underscores the need for deeper investigation: “The virus carries the potential to cause human disease, which makes further characterisation and ongoing surveillance essential. Our work also shows that the sequencing method we used is well suited for discovering novel viruses in ticks.”

Strengthening regional biosurveillance

The study identified 10 tick species across five genera, with five species selected for viral screening. The newly detected virus appeared in multiple pools of Amblyomma hebraeum ticks collected from dorper sheep in the Eastern Cape.

Dr Terblanche’s work also demonstrates how genetic barcoding can assist in accurately identifying tick species. This complements traditional morphological methods and supports improved understanding of tick populations, which is crucial given their role as significant vectors of disease.

Prof Burt expressed pride in her students’ achievements: “I am delighted to have two PhD graduates completing today. Their work strengthens capacity in biosurveillance and virus discovery, which is vital for our region. A PhD is a journey of persistence, and both candidates have shown remarkable commitment.”

The second graduate under her supervision, Dr Tumelo Sekee, also completed his PhD in Virology, focusing on mosquitoes as vectors of flaviviruses. His research similarly led to the detection of previously undocumented viruses in central South Africa.

A journey driven by curiosity and interdisciplinary insight

For Dr Terblanche, the PhD brought together multiple areas of scientific interest. With a background in Zoology, Entomology and Genetics, he has long been drawn to understanding the cycles that connect vectors, hosts and the environment.

“This degree is meaningful to me because it allowed me to integrate all the disciplines I enjoy,” he says. “I was fortunate to be supported by a strong network of people who encouraged me throughout the process.”

He credits Prof Burt’s mentorship for enabling creative exploration within his research: “She allows her students the freedom to be innovative, and her expertise in arboviruses has been central to shaping this project.”

Looking ahead

The next phase of the research involves fully characterising the newly detected virus and sequencing its complete genome to understand its origin, transmission dynamics and possible health implications.