Evolutionary dynamics of rabies viruses highlights the importance of China rabies transmission in Asia

Rabies in Asia is emerging as a serious public health issue. To explore the possible origin, phylogenetic relationships, and evolutionary dynamics of Asian Rabies viruses (RABV), we examined 200 complete nucleoprotein (N) gene sequences from RABV isolates in the region. Phylogeny supported the classification of Asian RABVs into five distinct clusters in lyssavirus genotype 1. Our geospatial and temporal analyses demonstrated that China appears to be the prime source of Asian RABVs. Understanding of rabies transmission and associated human activities, such as dog translocation, can help rabies control and elimination in Asia through collaborative efforts or programs. (C) 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.