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Dengue virus circulation and evolution in Mexico: a phylogenetic perspective
Francisco J Díaz1, William C Black, José A Farfán-Ale
1Arthropod-Borne and Infectious Disease Laboratory, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Pathology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado 80523-1692, USA.
Archives of Medical Research
|July 11, 2006
Summary
New dengue virus (DENV) serotypes and genotypes entering Mexico are linked to increased dengue incidence and severity. Enhanced surveillance is crucial for public health to prevent epidemics and severe dengue cases.
Area of Science:
- Molecular epidemiology
- Virology
- Public health
Background:
- Dengue is a significant arthropod-borne viral illness in the Americas.
- Mexico has experienced increasing dengue severity in recent decades.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate viral factors driving epidemic dengue, dengue hemorrhagic fever, and dengue shock syndrome in Mexico.
- Determine the origin, persistence, and spread of dengue virus (DENV) serotypes in Mexico.
Main Methods:
- Conducted molecular epidemiological studies on DENV strains from 1980-2002.
- Utilized Bayesian phylogenetic analyses to track DENV origin and dispersion.
- Performed tests for natural selection.
Main Results:
- Inferred origins for some circulating DENV strains.
- Observed frequent lineage replacements, likely due to stochastic events.
- Linked recent increases in dengue incidence and severity to the introduction and circulation of specific DENV serotypes and genotypes.
Conclusions:
- Introduction of new DENV genotypes and serotypes is a primary risk factor for dengue epidemics and severe disease.
- Enhanced surveillance for DENV introductions is vital for public health interventions.