First detection of a novel ‘unknown host’ flavivirus in a Malaysian rodent

Current phylogenetic analysis of the flavivirus genus has identified a group mosquito-borne viruses for which vertebrate hosts are currently unknown. Here we report identification novel member this from peridomestic rodent species ( Sundamys muelleri ) collected in Sarawak, Malaysia 2016. We propose to name Batu Kawa virus after location it was identified, with abbreviation BKWV. Characterization BKWV genome allowed putative mature peptides, potential enzyme motifs and conserved structural elements. Phylogenetic found be most closely related Nhumirim (from Brazil) Barkedji Senegal Israel). Both these have been Culex mosquitoes belong unknown hosts. This is first known mammalian host.