Genomic characterization of human respiratory syncytial virus circulating in Islamabad, Pakistan, during an outbreak in 2022-2023

Arch Virol. 2024 Apr 22;169(5):106. doi: 10.1007/s00705-024-06036-0.

Abstract

In this study, conducted at the National Institute of Health, Islamabad, during an outbreak of human respiratory syncytial virus (hRSV) from December 2022 to January 2023, the first whole-genome sequences of hRSV isolates from Islamabad, Pakistan, were determined. Out of 10 positive samples, five were sequenced, revealing the presence of two genotypes: RSV-A (GA2.3.5, ON1 strain) and RSV-B (GB5.0.5.a, BA-10 strain). A rare non-synonymous substitution (E232G) in G the protein and N276S in the F protein were found in RSV-A. In RSV-B, the unique mutations K191R, Q209R, and I206M were found in the F protein. These mutations could potentially influence vaccine efficacy and viral pathogenicity. This research underscores the importance of genomic surveillance for understanding RSV diversity and guiding public health responses in Pakistan.

MeSH terms

  • Child, Preschool
  • Disease Outbreaks*
  • Female
  • Genome, Viral* / genetics
  • Genomics
  • Genotype*
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Male
  • Mutation
  • Pakistan / epidemiology
  • Phylogeny*
  • Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infections* / epidemiology
  • Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infections* / virology
  • Respiratory Syncytial Virus, Human* / classification
  • Respiratory Syncytial Virus, Human* / genetics
  • Respiratory Syncytial Virus, Human* / isolation & purification
  • Viral Fusion Proteins / genetics
  • Whole Genome Sequencing

Substances

  • Viral Fusion Proteins