Seasonal human coronavirus NL63 epidemics in children in Guilin, China, reveal the emergence of a new subgenotype of HCoV-NL63.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Seasonal human coronavirus NL63 (HCoV-NL63) is a frequently encountered virus linked to mild upper respiratory infections. However, its potential to cause more severe or widespread disease remains an area of concern. This study aimed to investigate a rare localized epidemic of HCoV-NL63-induced respiratory infections among pediatric patients in Guilin, China, and to understand the viral subtype distribution and genetic characteristics.

Methods

In this study, 83 pediatric patients hospitalized with acute respiratory infections and positive for HCoV-NL63 were enrolled. Molecular analysis was conducted to identify the viral subgenotypes and to assess genetic variations in the receptor-binding domain of the spiking protein.

Results

Among the 83 HCoV-NL63-posi

SUBMITTER: Zhu R 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11082418 | biostudies-literature | 2024

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature