Phylogenetic and Spatial Dynamics of Rabies Virus in Thailand, 1998–2014: A Retrospective Analysis Using MicrobeTrace
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.59096/osir.v19i2.279806Keywords:
MicrobeTrace, molecular epidemiology, rabies virus, ThailandAbstract
Objectives: Rabies remains an important zoonotic disease in Thailand despite long-standing vaccination programs. Understanding long-term viral circulation patterns is essential to support surveillance and control.
Methods: We conducted a retrospective molecular epidemiological analysis of rabies virus (RABV) in Thailand using 307 nucleotide sequences collected between 1998–2002 and 2011–2014. Sequences were aligned using Multiple Alignment using Fast Fourier Transform (MAFFT). Phylogenetic analysis was performed using neighbor-joining method in Unipro UGENE software, and the resulting trees were visualized using iTOL. Molecular networks were constructed in MicrobeTrace using a genetic distance threshold of 0.015. Spatial and temporal patterns were mapped using QGIS.
Results: Phylogenetic and molecular network analyses consistently classified RABV into four genetic clusters. Clusters 1–3 belonged to the Southeast Asia clade, while Cluster 4 was related to the China clade. Cluster 1 showed widespread geographic distribution, persistent circulation, and high network connectivity, indicating endemic maintenance. Cluster 2 was detected throughout the study period across multiple regions but exhibited network degree values below the median, suggesting more fragmented transmission. Cluster 3 was detected only during the early study period (1998–2002), indicating limited circulation. Cluster 4 emerged during the later period (2011–2014) and was geographically confined to northern and upper northeastern border provinces.
Public Health Recommendations: This study highlights the value of integrating phylogenetic, molecular network, and spatial analyses to better characterize rabies transmission dynamics. The findings support strengthening targeted surveillance in high connectivity and border areas, sustaining mass dog vaccination, and enhancing cross border collaboration within a One Health framework.
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