Abstract
Foot-and-mouth disease is an endemic animal disease in Hong Kong. In this study, a total of 70 clinical specimens were collected from locally infected pigs from 2001 to 2010. Phylogenetic analysis of VP1 sequences reveal that all Hong Kong FMDV serotype O isolates are classified into three lineages: HK-A and HK-B in Cathay topotype, and HK-C in SEA topotype. Regression analysis projects that the time of divergence from the most recent common ancestor of HK-A and HK-B are 1964±12 and 1987±9years respectively. Although HK-B shares a common ancestor with strains that caused outbreak in Taiwan and Philippines, there is no consolidated evidence demonstrating the order of introduction events among these regions. HK-C lineage is the latest FMDV isolated in Hong Kong. This virus is likely adopted from bovine into porcine. As local pigs confer immunity mainly against Cathay topotype viruses, introduction of HK-C viruses have led into an unexpectedly high severity and rapid spreading rate of the disease. A systematic surveillance and communication network is essential to provide accurate information in controlling the pandemics.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
