Genetic features of polioviruses isolated in Tunisia, 1991-2006

Abstract Background Genetic characterisation of polioviruses remains highly important even in countries where wild poliovirus circulation has been interrupted. Sequence data on representative wild strains from all geographical regions is required for surveillance purposes and surveillance for vaccine-related isolates with increased potential for transmissibility in humans should continue. Objective To report the genetic characteristics of wild and vaccine-related polioviruses isolated in Tunisia from 1991 to 2006. Study design Wild isolates were sequenced in the VP1 genomic region and compared to each other. Vaccine-related isolates were assessed for genetic recombination by PCR/RFLP and sequence analysis of the 3D region. Recombinant viruses were assessed for genetic drift in the VP1 region. Results The VP1 sequences of the last wild isolates, all from serotype3, showed 97.7–98.7% nucleotide homology. Nineteen percent of vaccine-related isolates were vaccine/vaccine intertypic recombinants. No recombinant with non-poliovirus enteroviruses was identified. Mutational differences in the VP1 sequences of recombinant viruses ranged from 0.0% to 0.7% indicating a limited replication period. Conclusions This study provides sequence data on wild polioviruses from Tunisia/North Africa and shows that in countries with continuous high vaccine coverage transmission of vaccine-related polioviruses is time-limited.