Bat-rodent-human interfaces in the Americas: a synthesis of zoonotic pathways.

Abstract

Emerging zoonoses often arise at wildlife-human interfaces, yet prevention efforts still treat wildlife reservoirs in isolation. This review synthesizes evidence on RNA viruses detected in bats and rodents across the Americas and examines the ecological interfaces underlying bat-rodent-human transmission. Rather than an exhaustive inventory, we adopt an interface-based perspective on cross-species transmission. We focus on astroviruses, coronaviruses, hantaviruses, and lyssaviruses-groups combining high genetic diversity, broad host ranges, and documented or suspected zoonotic potential. We describe interfaces created by land-use change, urbanization, shared food and water resources, co-roosting in human-made structures, environmental contamination (guano- and urine-borne aerosols), and seasonality of shedding. Key gaps include geographic sampling biases, limited infectivity data, and scarce integration of host movement, contact ecology, and human practices. Prevention priorities include longitudinal surveillance along rural-urban gradients, genomic tracking of cross-species transmission, experimental work on commensal rodents that may bridge bats and humans, and co-designed community interventions. Given the region's exceptional biodiversity and rapid socio-ecological change, the Americas represent a hotspot where bat-rodent-human viral interactions may increase spillover risk. Recognizing and monitoring this overlooked interface can sharpen early warning and inform cost-effective prevention.