Global genetic diversity of measles virus (Paramyxoviridae: <i>Morbillivirus: Morbillivirus hominis</i>): historical aspects and current state

Abstract

Monitoring the circulation of the measles virus and studying its genetic diversity is an important component of the measles elimination program. A methodological approach to molecular genetic studies and their interpretation in the measles surveillance was developed in the early 2000s. During its development, clear areas of circulation of each genotype of the virus were identified, therefore, the determination of viruses genotypes was proposed to monitor circulation and identify transmission pathways. However, in the future, due to a significant decrease in the number of active genotypes, an approach based on sub-genotyping was proposed: determining not only the genotype of the virus, but also its genetic lineage/genetic variant. The Global Measles and Rubella Laboratory Network (GMRLN) systematically monitors the circulation of the measles virus at the sub-genotypic level, depositing the results in a specialized database MeaNS2. It is this database that is the most complete and reliable source of information about the genetic characteristic of measles viruses. This review presents both historical information and the latest data on the global genetic diversity of the measles virus.