Vector-Borne Transmission of the Zika Virus Asian Genotype in Europe

Abstract

Three autochthonous cases of Zika virus occurred in southern France in August 2019. Diagnosis relied on serology and transcription-mediated amplification. Attempts for virus isolation and ZIKV genome RT-PCR detection remained negative. Since the index case was not identified, we addressed the issue of genotyping and geographical origin by performing hemi-nested PCR and sequencing in the Pr gene. Analysis of 16 genotype-specific Single Nucleotides Polymorphisms identified the Asian genotype and suggested a Southeast Asia origin.

Keywords

• arbovirus
• zika
• france
• <i>aedes albopictus</i>
• autochthonous transmission
• genotyping