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Evolution of mpox virus in Peru: case B.1.6.1
Wendy Lizarraga1, Veronica Hurtado1, Victor Jimenez-Vasquez1
1Área de Innovación y Desarrollo, Centro Nacional de Salud Pública, Instituto Nacional de Salud, Lima, Perú.
Pathogens and Global Health
|March 9, 2026
Summary
A novel mpox virus lineage, B.1.6.1, has emerged in Peru, primarily affecting immunocompromised young and adult men. This new mpox variant carries five distinct genetic mutations.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Genomics
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Mpox virus (formerly monkeypox) is a zoonotic orthopoxvirus with a history of endemicity in Central and West Africa.
- Recent global outbreaks have highlighted the potential for mpox to spread internationally and cause significant public health concern.
- Understanding viral evolution and the emergence of new lineages is crucial for effective disease surveillance and control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report the identification and characterization of a newly emerged mpox lineage.
- To describe the epidemiological features and genetic makeup of this novel lineage.
Main Methods:
- Phylogenetic analysis of viral sequences.
- Identification of specific genetic mutations differentiating the new lineage from existing clades.
- Review of epidemiological data associated with reported cases.
Main Results:
- A distinct mpox lineage, designated B.1.6.1, has been identified.
- This lineage is endemic to Peru and predominantly observed in young and adult males with compromised immune systems.
- Lineage B.1.6.1 is characterized by five specific mutations: OPG019 (Q81stop), OPG025 (A21T, E34K), OPG121 (S65L), OPG064 (M424I), and OPG210 (S1590F).
Conclusions:
- The emergence of mpox lineage B.1.6.1 in Peru represents a significant viral evolution event.
- The specific genetic profile and observed predilection for immunocompromised individuals warrant further investigation.
- Continued genomic surveillance is essential to monitor the spread and potential impact of this new mpox variant.
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