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Updated: Jun 14, 2026
Mosquito-Associated Virus Isolation from Field-Collected Mosquitoes
Published on: August 31, 2022
Isolation and characterization of Indian isolates of camel pox virus
V Bhanuprakash1, V Balamurugan, M Hosamani
1Pox Virus Diseases Laboratory, Division of Virology, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Mukteswar, 263138, Nainital, Uttarakhand, India.
Abstract:
In this study, we isolated and identified three camel pox viruses (CMLV) from two outbreaks of camel pox infection in camels associated with eruptions on cheeks, nostrils, limbs, scrotum, and sheath that occurred at different places of Bikaner district, Rajasthan (India). The scab specimens collected were subjected for virus isolation in Vero cell culture, and the isolated viruses were characterized by employing polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and sequencing. The causative agent was identified as CMLV, based on A-type inclusion, B5R and C18L genes-specific PCRs and partial sequencing of these genes, which clearly confirmed that the outbreaks were caused by CMLV and identity of CMLV isolates. Further, phylogenetic analysis of partial C18L gene sequences have showed that Indian CMLV are clustered together with other reported isolates/strains.
Insights
Camel pox virus (CMLV) was identified in outbreaks affecting camels in India. Phylogenetic analysis confirmed Indian CMLV strains cluster with other global isolates.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Virology
- Molecular Epidemiology
Background:
- Camel pox is a significant disease affecting camel populations.
- Outbreaks can cause substantial economic losses in affected regions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To isolate and identify the causative agent of camel pox outbreaks in Rajasthan, India.
- To characterize the identified virus using molecular techniques.
- To determine the genetic relationship of Indian CMLV isolates with other known strains.
Main Methods:
- Virus isolation from scab specimens in Vero cell culture.
- Identification using Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) targeting specific CMLV genes (A-type inclusion, B5R, C18L).
- Partial gene sequencing and phylogenetic analysis of the C18L gene.
Main Results:
- Three camel pox virus (CMLV) isolates were successfully obtained from two outbreaks.
- PCR and sequencing confirmed the presence and identity of CMLV.
- Phylogenetic analysis indicated that Indian CMLV isolates group together with previously reported strains.
Conclusions:
- The study confirmed CMLV as the causative agent of the observed camel pox outbreaks in India.
- The findings contribute to understanding the molecular epidemiology of CMLV in the region.
- Indian CMLV isolates share genetic similarities with other global strains.
