[Genetic characterization of the rabies virus field isolates detected in Russian Federation within the period 2008-2011].

Sixty-three gene N fragments of rabies virus field isolates detected within the period 2008-2011 in different regions of Russian Federation were sequenced. The comparison with previously tested isolates and strains has shown that newly isolated isolates can be placed into five previously described phylogenetic groups: Arctic group, Central Russian group, Eurasian group, Northern European group, and Caucasian group. The Arctic group isolates detected in Komi republic were identical to previously described rabies virus strain from Yakutia. This is the first reliable case of detecting Arctic group rabies virus in European part of Russia.