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Genomic Epidemiology Reconstructs the Introduction and Spread of Zika Virus in Central America and Mexico

Julien Thézé1, Tony Li2, Louis du Plessis1

  • 1Department of Zoology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.

Cell Host & Microbe
|May 29, 2018
PubMed

Insights

Genetic epidemiology of Zika virus (ZIKV) in Central America and Mexico reveals multiple introductions and biannual transmission peaks. Understanding ZIKV spread is crucial for effective arbovirus surveillance and control.

Area of Science:

  • Virology
  • Epidemiology
  • Genetics

Background:

  • The Zika virus (ZIKV) epidemic highlighted its threat and link to severe diseases like microcephaly.
  • Limited genetic epidemiology data exists for ZIKV in Central America and Mexico.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To reconstruct ZIKV transmission dynamics in Central America and Mexico.
  • To investigate the origins and spread patterns of ZIKV in the region.

Main Methods:

  • Generated 61 ZIKV genomes using metagenomic sequencing with ZIKV-specific enrichment.
  • Combined phylogenetic, epidemiological, and environmental data for transmission reconstruction.

Main Results:

  • Identified multiple independent ZIKV introductions into Central America and Mexico.
  • Traced a major ZIKV introduction from Brazil via Honduras, leading to widespread undetected transmission from late 2014.
  • Revealed biannual ZIKV transmission peaks, likely influenced by environmental factors and herd immunity.

Conclusions:

  • ZIKV transmission in Central America and Mexico is characterized by complex introductions and heterogeneous spatial-temporal patterns.
  • The findings challenge current arbovirus surveillance and disease control strategies in the region.
Keywords:
Central AmericaMexicoZika virusbait capture enrichmenteffective reproductive numbergenomicsmetagenomic sequencingphylodynamicstransmission“spiked” primer enrichment

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