Newly Discovered Rustrela Virus: Current State of Knowledge About the Etiological Agent of Feline “Staggering Disease”

Abstract

The rustrela virus (RusV), a recently discovered member of the <i>Matonaviridae</i> family and a close relative of the rubella virus, has emerged as the etiological agent of “staggering disease”—a progressive neurological disorder primarily affecting domestic cats and other mammals. Characterized by nonsuppurative meningoencephalomyelitis, RusV infection manifests with clinical signs such as ataxia, seizures, and behavioral abnormalities. First identified in 2020, RusV has since been detected in various mammalian species across Europe and, more recently, in North America. This review provides a comprehensive summary of the current knowledge of RusV, including its taxonomy, genomic structure, host range, transmission hypotheses, clinical and histopathological features, and diagnostic challenges. Although the potential for zoonotic spillover has not yet been confirmed, it highlights the need for increased surveillance and further research. As an emerging neurotropic virus with potential for cross-species transmission, RusV may represent a significant concern for veterinary medicine and public health.