In 2017, the order Mononegavirales was expanded by the inclusion of a total of 69 novel species. Five new rhabdovirus genera and one new nyamivirus genus were established to harbor 41 of these species, whereas the remaining new species were assigned to already established genera. Furthermore, non-Latinized binomial species names replaced all paramyxovirus and pneumovirus species names, thereby accomplishing application of binomial species names throughout the entire order. This article presents the updated taxonomy of the order Mononegavirales as now accepted by the International Committee on Taxonomy of Viruses (ICTV).

Most current Ebola virus (EBOV) vaccine candidates are based on viral vectors, some of which cause side effects or require complex manufacturing. Modified mRNA vaccines are easily produced, safe, and are highly immunogenic. We developed 2 mRNA vaccines based on the EBOV envelope glycoprotein, which differed by the nature of signal peptide for improved glycoprotein post-translational translocation. The mRNAs were formulated with lipid nanoparticles to facilitate delivery. Vaccination of guinea pigs induced EBOV-specific IgG and neutralizing antibody responses and 100% survival after EBOV infection. The efficacy of our mRNA vaccine combined with preclinical safety data supports testing in clinical studies.

In 2018, the order Mononegavirales was expanded by inclusion of 1 new genus and 12 novel species. This article presents the updated taxonomy of the order Mononegavirales as now accepted by the International Committee on Taxonomy of Viruses (ICTV) and summarizes additional taxonomic proposals that may affect the order in the near future.