POWASSAN VIRUS INFECTION IN SNOWSHOE HARES (Lepus americanus)

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Abstract
Sera from snowshoe hares (L. americanus) trapped near Rochester, Alberta, Canada, were tested for Powassan virus antibody by the constant virus/serum dilution neutralization test. Of 1264 serum samples tested, 137 had an antibody titer of at least 1:4 for Powassan virus. Ten hares were inoculated with Powassan virus in the laboratory. Viremia lasted 4-5 days and ceased with the appearance of Powassan antibody in the serum. Neutralizing antibody reached a peak titer of 1:119 on day 15 post-inoculation and was still detectable 13 mo. post-inoculation. [These findings have relevance to the potential of showshoe hares to serve as reservoirs for this virus.].