A study of the genetic variability of human respiratory syncytial virus (HRSV) in Cambodia reveals the existence of a new HRSV group B genotype.

ABSTRACT: Human respiratory syncytial virus (HRSV) is the leading cause of hospitalization of children aged <5 years due to respiratory illness in industrialized countries, and pneumonia is the leading cause of mortality among children aged <5 years worldwide. Although HRSV was first identified in 1956, a preventative vaccine has yet to be developed. Here we report the results of the first study to investigate the circulation and genetic diversity of HRSV in Cambodia among an all-ages population over 5 consecutive years. The incidences of HRSV infection among all-ages outpatient and hospitalized populations were equivalent, at 9.5% and 8.2%, respectively. Infection was most prevalent among children aged <5 years, with bronchiolitis being the most frequently observed clinical syndrome in the same age

SUBMITTER: Arnott A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3187327 | biostudies-literature | 2011 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature