Objective: To investigate the sub-genotypes and distribution ot Seoul virus in Henan.
Methods: Rodents were collected in the major epidemic areas and rats lungs were studied by indirect immunofluorescence assay. Partial M and S segments were amplified with nested reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction using Hantavirus genotype-specific primers, sequenced, analyzed and compared with other known sequences.
Results: The Hantavirus carried by Rattus norvegicus, Rattus flavipectus and Mus musculus were all belonged to Seoul virus in the main epidemic areas of Henan. We constructed two phylogenetic tree based on the partial M and S segment sequences while phylogenetic analysis distinguished three genetic subtypes (S1, S2 and S3). S1 and S3 were found main subtypes in Henan.
Conclusion: The results indicated that the genetic subtypes of Hantavirus were complicated and widely distributed in Henan.