Genetic characterization and phylogenetic analysis of rabbit hemorrhagic disease virus isolated in Tunisia from 2015 to 2018

Nadia Rahali (1, 2) , Soufien Sghaier (3) , Houaida Kbaier (1, 2) , Amira Zanati (1, 2) , Chokri Bahloul (1, 2)

1 LR11IPT01 - Laboratoire de Microbiologie Moléculaire, Vaccinologie et Développement Biotechnologique
2 UTM - Université de Tunis El Manar
3 IRVT - Institut de Recherche Vétérinaire de Tunisie

Two distinct genotypes responsible for rabbit hemorrhagic disease (RHD) are reported, GI.1 (RHDV) and GI.2 (RHDV2). Vaccines based on these two genotypes are only partially cross-protective. Hence, knowing which genotype is circulating is important for appropriate control measures. We have investigated 25 field samples isolated between 2015 and 2018 from rabbits with clinical signs of RHD. Only GI.2 (RHDV2) is currently circulating in Tunisia. All Tunisian samples were grouped together with typical genotypic and phenotypic mutations. Therefore, we recommend initiating an extensive preventive vaccination program based on GI.2 vaccines in addition to a regular monitoring of the circulating lagoviruses.

Domaines: Sciences du Vivant [q-bio]

Nadia Rahali, Soufien Sghaier, Houaida Kbaier, Amira Zanati, Chokri Bahloul. Genetic characterization and phylogenetic analysis of rabbit hemorrhagic disease virus isolated in Tunisia from 2015 to 2018. Archives of Virology, 2019, 164 (9), pp.2327 - 2332. ⟨10.1007/s00705-019-04311-z⟩. ⟨pasteur-03561141⟩