Phylogenetic analysis of rubella viruses found in Morocco, Uganda, Cote d’Ivoire and South Africa from 2001 to 2007

Background Rubella virus (RV) causes a mild disease, but maternal infection early in pregnancy often leads to birth defects known as congenital rubella syndrome (CRS). Rubella remains poorly controlled in Africa. Objectives To identify RV genotypes found in Africa to help establish a genetic baseline for RV molecular epidemiology. Study design Urine and nasopharyngeal specimens were collected between 2001 and 2004 during measles surveillance in Morocco, Uganda and South Africa, and from two persons in the United States who contracted rubella in Cote d’Ivoire and Uganda in 2004 and 2007, respectively. RV RNA was obtained directly from specimens or from RV-infected cell cultures, amplified by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction, and the resulting DNAs sequenced. Sequences were assigned to genotypes by phylogenetic analysis with RV reference sequences. Results Nine RV sequences were assigned as follows: 1E in Morocco, 1G in Uganda and Cote d’Ivoire, and 2B in South Africa. Conclusions Information about RV genotypes circulating in Africa is improved which should aid in control of rubella and CRS in Africa.