Evolution of new genotype of west nile virus in North America

Allison Rebecca McMullen, Fiona J. May, Li Li, Hilda Guzman, Rudy Bueno, James A. Dennett, Robert B. Tesh, Alan D.T. Barrett

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

66 Scopus citations

Abstract

Previous studies of North American isolates of West Nile virus (WNV) during 1999-2005 suggested that the virus had reached genetic homeostasis in North America. However, genomic sequencing of WNV isolates from Harris County, Texas, during 2002-2009 suggests that this is not the case. Three new genetic groups have been identifi ed in Texas since 2005. Spread of the southwestern US genotype (SW/WN03) from the Arizona/Colorado/northern Mexico region to California, Illinois, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, and the Texas Gulf Coast demonstrates continued evolution of WNV. Thus, WNV continues to evolve in North America, as demonstrated by selection of this new genotype. Continued surveillance of the virus is essential as it continues to evolve in the New World.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)785-793
Number of pages9
JournalEmerging Infectious Diseases
Volume17
Issue number5
DOIs
StatePublished - 2011

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Epidemiology
  • Microbiology (medical)
  • Infectious Diseases

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