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Genetic diversity of mumps virus in oral fluid specimens: application to mumps epidemiological study
Li Jin1, David W G Brown, Pam A Litton
1Enteric, Respiratory, and Neurological Virus Laboratory, Communicable Disease Surveillance Center, Health Protection Agency, London, United Kingdom. li.jin@hpa.org.uk
Abstract:
Three hundred nine mumps virus (MuV) strains detected in the United Kingdom during 1995-2002 were characterized by partial sequencing of the small hydrophobic gene and were shown to belong to at least 6 different genotypes. A strain representing a new genotype was isolated from a seminal fluid specimen. Identical strains belonging to genotypes G and C were found to circulate for up to 3 years. One genotype H strain reappeared after an absence of 4 years. Distinct lineages (G1-G7) within genotype G were recognizable in the present study, and this level of characterization proved to be very useful for tracking MuV importations and subsequent transmission. We propose, here, a preliminary standardization of international nomenclature for genetic characterization of MuV strains, to facilitate future molecular epidemiological studies of mumps. Oral fluid (OF) specimens (n=1441) were used to detect both anti-MuV IgM and MuV genome, and the results indicate that OF specimens can be used successfully for diagnosis and have the potential to play a valuable role in diagnosis and surveillance of mumps.
Insights
Mumps virus (MuV) genotyping revealed at least six genotypes circulating in the UK from 1995-2002. Oral fluid specimens proved effective for mumps diagnosis and surveillance.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Molecular Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Mumps virus (MuV) poses a significant public health challenge.
- Genetic diversity and transmission patterns of MuV require detailed investigation for effective control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To genetically characterize MuV strains circulating in the UK between 1995 and 2002.
- To propose a standardized nomenclature for MuV genetic characterization.
- To evaluate the utility of oral fluid specimens for MuV diagnosis and surveillance.
Main Methods:
- Partial sequencing of the small hydrophobic gene of 309 MuV strains.
- Isolation of a novel genotype strain from seminal fluid.
- Detection of anti-MuV IgM and MuV genome in oral fluid specimens (n=1441).
Main Results:
- MuV strains belonged to at least six distinct genotypes, with evidence of long-term circulation (up to 3 years) for some.
- Distinct lineages within genotype G (G1-G7) were identified, aiding in tracking importation and transmission.
- Oral fluid specimens demonstrated high utility for both MuV genome detection and serological diagnosis.
Conclusions:
- Genetic characterization of MuV strains provides valuable insights into molecular epidemiology.
- Standardized nomenclature is crucial for future MuV surveillance and research.
- Oral fluid is a promising non-invasive specimen type for mumps diagnosis and public health surveillance.
