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Updated: May 11, 2026
Isolation and Genome Analysis of Single Virions using 'Single Virus Genomics'
Published on: May 26, 2013
Genotyping and subtyping of mumps virus isolates from the Indian subcontinent
Baijayantimala Mishra1, Sujit Kumar Pujhari, Vandana Dhiman
1Department of Virology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, 160012, India, bm_mishra@hotmail.com.
Abstract:
Mumps is a vaccine-preventable disease that usually occurs as a self-limiting parotitis, but it can also lead to several life-threatening complications, including pancreatitis, meningitis, and encephalitis. The molecular epidemiology of the virus is poorly understood. The present study describes an outbreak of mumps virus infection in Punjab, India. The etiology was confirmed by serology and RNA detection to be mumps virus in 72 % of the cases and 50 % of contacts. This study, for the first time, revealed the mumps virus genotypes circulating in the Indian subcontinent as subtype G2 of genotype G.
Insights
This study investigated a mumps virus outbreak in India, identifying genotype G, subtype G2, as the circulating strain. Understanding mumps virus epidemiology is crucial for public health strategies.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Mumps is a vaccine-preventable illness, typically causing parotitis but with potential for severe complications like meningitis and encephalitis.
- The molecular epidemiology of mumps virus remains inadequately understood globally.
- Outbreaks necessitate detailed investigation to inform control measures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the molecular epidemiology of a mumps virus outbreak in Punjab, India.
- To identify the specific genotypes and subtypes of mumps virus responsible for the outbreak.
- To contribute to the understanding of mumps virus diversity in the Indian subcontinent.
Main Methods:
- Serological testing to confirm mumps virus infection.
- RNA detection methods for etiological confirmation.
- Genotyping of detected mumps virus strains.
Main Results:
- Mumps virus was confirmed as the causative agent in 72% of cases and 50% of contacts.
- The study identified genotype G, subtype G2, as the predominant mumps virus circulating during the outbreak.
- This marks the first report of mumps virus genotypes in the Indian subcontinent.
Conclusions:
- The mumps outbreak in Punjab was caused by mumps virus genotype G, subtype G2.
- This finding provides critical insights into the molecular epidemiology of mumps in India.
- Further surveillance is needed to monitor mumps virus strains and inform vaccination strategies.
