Molecular characterization and genetic diversity of mumps virus genotype G in Pakistan during the 2023 outbreaks
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Mumps, despite being a vaccine-preventable disease, poses a significant public health challenge globally. In Pakistan, the absence of mumps vaccination in the national immunization program, coupled with limited epidemiological and surveillance data, presents a concerning scenario. This study investigates the molecular epidemiology of the Mumps virus (MuV) during the 2023 outbreaks, focusing on the genetic variability of the small hydrophobic (SH) gene, a key determinant for viral evolution and genotyping. Buccal swabs were collected from suspected patients presenting swollen parotid glands during the outbreak periods. Out of 62 mumps suspects, 40 (64.5 %) samples tested positive for MuV through RT-PCR. The incidence rate of positive cases was higher in males (70 %) than in females (30 %), with the highest incidence observed in early childhood (0-5 year-old) infants. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that all the specimens belonged to genotype G, with 97.4 % homology with genotype G of MuV isolates from Spain and up to 98.73 % with Japan, and UK. This research study underscores Pakistan's vulnerability to mumps outbreaks due to the absence of mumps vaccine in the national immunization program and highlights the need for effective surveillance systems for Mumps in the country.
Source: Infection Genetics and Evolution
Authors: Hina Fatima, Muhammad Salman, Zunera Jamal, Rabia Hakim, Massab Umair, Javaria Qazi
Institutions: Quaid-i-Azam University, National Institute of Health
Language: English
Topic: Virology and Viral Diseases
Subfield: Epidemiology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,730
OpenAlex ID: W4410472874