New Equine Like G3P8 Rotavirus Strain Detected in Venezuela Raises Vaccine Concerns
Nikhil Prasad Fact checked by:Thailand Medical News Team Mar 15, 2025 4 hours, 14 minutes ago
Medical News: A New Rotavirus Strain Emerging in Venezuela
Researchers in Venezuela have identified a new strain of rotavirus, an infection that primarily affects young children and causes severe diarrhea. The new variant, called equine-like G3P[8] rotavirus, was detected in children in Caracas and shows genetic differences from previously known strains. This discovery raises concerns about how effective existing vaccines may be against this new strain.
New Equine Like G3P8 Rotavirus Strain Detected in Venezuela Raises Vaccine Concerns
The study was conducted by a team of scientists from the Instituto Venezolano de Investigaciones Científicas (IVIC), in collaboration with medical professionals from several Venezuelan hospitals. Their research provides crucial insights into the changing nature of rotaviruses and their potential impact on public health. This
Medical News report highlights the key findings and what they mean for the fight against rotavirus infections in Venezuela and beyond.
Understanding the New Equine Like G3P8 Rotavirus Strain
Rotavirus is a major cause of severe gastroenteritis, particularly in children under five years old. The virus spreads easily through contaminated hands, food, and water, leading to symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and dehydration. While vaccines like Rotarix and RotaTeq have been effective in reducing severe cases, new rotavirus variants continue to emerge worldwide.
The recently identified equine-like G3P[8] strain has a unique genetic makeup that distinguishes it from older G3 strains. Full-genome sequencing revealed that it shares many characteristics with equine-like strains that have appeared in other countries such as Brazil, Australia, and Thailand. However, the Venezuelan strain has undergone specific mutations that could affect how it interacts with the human immune system and vaccines.
Key Findings from the Study
Scientists performed an in-depth genetic analysis of the new rotavirus strain and made several important discoveries:
-High Genetic Similarity with Global Equine-Like Strains: The Venezuelan strain closely resembles equine-like G3P[8] rotavirus strains that have been reported in various parts of the world. This suggests a possible global trend of this virus type spreading among humans.
-Two Different Lineages Identified: Researchers found that the equine-like G3P[8] strains circulating in Venezuela belong to two different genetic lineages (E2-V and E2-XI), confirming that multiple versions of the virus are present in the region.
-Potential Vaccine Escape Mutations: The study identified several genetic changes in the VP7 protein of the virus, which plays a key role in immune response. Some of these mutations may reduce the effectiveness of current vaccines, raising concerns about how well vaccinated individuals will be protected against this strain.
-Longstanding Circulat
ion in Venezuela:
The study found evidence that equine-like G3P[8] strains had been circulating in Venezuela before their official detection in 2023. Some of these viruses were even identified in wastewater samples, indicating their presence in the environment.
Implications for Public Health and Vaccination
The emergence of this new strain raises critical questions about the future of rotavirus vaccination programs in Venezuela and beyond. While vaccines have been instrumental in reducing severe diarrhea cases, changes in rotavirus genetics could make them less effective over time.
The study's findings align with similar reports from other countries where equine-like G3P[8] strains have gained dominance. In Brazil, for instance, these viruses have largely replaced older strains, signaling a shift in the rotavirus landscape. The genetic changes observed in the Venezuelan strain suggest that it may have an increased ability to spread among humans, which could lead to larger outbreaks if not properly addressed.
The Need for Continued Surveillance
Public health experts emphasize the importance of ongoing rotavirus surveillance to monitor how these new strains behave and whether they reduce vaccine effectiveness. Researchers recommend the following steps:
-Enhanced Monitoring: Routine genetic analysis of rotavirus samples should be performed to track how the virus evolves.
-Vaccine Reevaluation: If this strain continues to spread, updates to existing vaccines may be necessary to ensure continued protection.
-Public Awareness: Health authorities should educate communities about rotavirus prevention, including the importance of handwashing and sanitation.
Conclusion
The discovery of the equine-like G3P[8] rotavirus strain in Venezuela highlights the ever-changing nature of infectious diseases. While vaccines remain a vital tool in preventing severe illness, the continued evolution of rotaviruses presents new challenges. The study reinforces the need for constant vigilance, updated vaccines, and improved public health strategies to combat these emerging threats.
The study findings were published in the peer-reviewed journal: Viruses.
https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4915/17/3/410
For the latest on Rotaviruses, keep on logging to Thailand
Medical News.
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