Complete Genome Sequence of Mumps Virus Isolated from Karnataka State, India

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Genomics
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Mumps virus (MuV) is a significant cause of childhood viral parotitis.
• Understanding MuV genetic diversity is crucial for public health surveillance and vaccine development.
• Previous studies have characterized MuV strains from various Indian states, highlighting regional genetic variations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report the first whole-genome sequence of a mumps virus isolate from Davangere, Karnataka, India.
• To genetically characterize the Davangere mumps isolate and compare it with existing Indian MuV strains.
• To contribute to the genomic surveillance of mumps virus in India.

Main Methods:

• Whole-genome sequencing of the mumps virus isolate from a clinical sample.
• Bioinformatic analysis of the obtained genome sequence.
• Comparative genomic analysis using BLAST against publicly available MuV sequences, particularly those from India.

Main Results:

• The complete genome of the Davangere mumps isolate was sequenced, measuring 15,384 base pairs.
• The Davangere isolate's genome demonstrated 99.1% nucleotide identity with previously sequenced genotype C mumps viruses from India.
• The genetic profile of the Davangere isolate is consistent with other Indian MuV strains, particularly those belonging to genotype C.

Conclusions:

• This study provides the first whole-genome data for mumps virus from the Davangere region of India.
• The findings reinforce the genetic homogeneity of mumps virus genotype C strains circulating in India.
• Continued genomic surveillance of mumps virus is essential for monitoring its evolution and spread within India.