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Published on: July 15, 2019
Molecular epidemiology of coxsackievirus B3 infection in Spain, 2004-2014
Katherine I Calderón1, María Díaz-de Cerio1, Almudena Otero1
1Enterovirus Unit, National Centre for Microbiology, National Health Institute "Carlos III", Ctra. Majadahonda-Pozuelo km 2, Madrid, Spain.
Abstract:
Epidemiological and clinical characteristics of coxsackievirus B3 infections in Spain were investigated. This enterovirus (EV) type was detected mainly in young children (<6 months) and was associated with neurological (78 %) and respiratory diseases (10 %) but also with myo/pericarditis (10 %). Two myocarditis cases were fatal. Phylogenetic analysis of the VP1 region showed that genotype III circulated in the country between 2004 and 2008 and was replaced by genotype V in 2010. Furthermore, phylogenetic analysis of the 3D region indicated that recombination events have occurred and contributed to the genetic evolution of this EV type.
Insights
Coxsackievirus B3 infections primarily affected infants in Spain, causing neurological and respiratory illnesses. Genotype evolution and recombination were observed in this enterovirus (EV) type.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Enterovirus (EV) infections pose a significant public health concern.
- Coxsackievirus B3 (CVB3) is a notable enterovirus with diverse clinical manifestations.
- Understanding the epidemiology and genetic diversity of CVB3 is crucial for disease control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the epidemiological and clinical features of Coxsackievirus B3 infections in Spain.
- To analyze the genetic evolution and phylogenetic characteristics of circulating CVB3 strains.
- To identify potential recombination events in the CVB3 genome.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective epidemiological and clinical data analysis.
- Molecular detection and typing of enterovirus (EV).
- Phylogenetic analysis of the VP1 and 3D regions of the CVB3 genome.
Main Results:
- Coxsackievirus B3 (CVB3) infections were predominantly identified in infants (<6 months).
- Neurological (78%) and respiratory (10%) diseases were the most common clinical outcomes; myo/pericarditis occurred in 10% of cases, with two fatal myocarditis instances.
- Phylogenetic analysis revealed a shift from CVB3 genotype III (2004-2008) to genotype V (2010).
- Evidence of recombination events was detected in the 3D region, indicating ongoing viral evolution.
Conclusions:
- Coxsackievirus B3 (CVB3) poses a significant risk to young children in Spain, primarily causing neurological and respiratory illness.
- The genetic landscape of CVB3 in Spain has evolved, with genotype shifts and recombination influencing its epidemiology.
- Continued surveillance and molecular characterization are essential for understanding and managing CVB3 infections.
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