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Molecular epidemiology of respiratory syncytial virus
Author(s) -
Pangesti Kris.A.,
Abd El Ghany Moataz,
Walsh Michael G.,
Kesson Alison M.,
HillCawthorne Grant A.
Publication year - 2018
Publication title -
reviews in medical virology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 2.06
H-Index - 90
eISSN - 1099-1654
pISSN - 1052-9276
DOI - 10.1002/rmv.1968
Subject(s) - virus , epidemiology , virology , respiratory tract infections , biology , genotype , molecular epidemiology , respiratory system , genetic diversity , medicine , genetics , gene , population , environmental health , anatomy
Summary Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a major cause of viral acute respiratory tract infections in young children. The virus is characterised by distinct seasonality that is dependent upon the latitude and its ability to cause reinfection. Respiratory syncytial virus demonstrates a complex molecular epidemiology pattern as multiple strains and/or genotypes cocirculate during a single epidemic. Previous studies have investigated the relationship between RSV genetic diversity, reinfection, and clinical features. Here, we review the evidence behind this relationship together with the impact that the advancement of whole genome sequencing will have upon our understanding and the need for reconsidering the classification of RSV genotypes.