Genomic characterization of Seoul virus from Rattus norvegicus in Buenos Aires city, Argentina

The complete genomic characterization of two Seoul virus (SEOV) strains of Rattus norvegicus captured in Buenos Aires City in 1983 and 2001 is reported for the first time. The nucleotide and amino acid identities observed between the Argentinian SEOV strains for the coding regions of the S, M, and L segments and their deduced amino acid sequences were similar to those observed between Argentinian SEOV strains and those from other parts of the world. Phylogenetic analyses using the maximum-likelihood method show that the two Argentinian SEOV strains grouped with other strains from Asia, Europe, and the US in two different clades, indicating possible independent introductions in Argentina and more studies are needed to understand the evolution and migratory movements of the SEOV. Human cases of disease have not yet been reported in Argentina, and further eco-epidemiological studies are required in order to analyze the pathogenic potential of the SEOV strains circulating in our country.