[Dengue virus serotype 1 (DENV-1) from Colombia: its contribution to dengue occurrence in Santander].

INTRODUCTION

Between 1998 and 2008 all dengue virus serotypes circulated in the Departamento de Santander, an endemic region in northeastern Colombia. No information is available as to the role of serotype 1 (DENV-1) with respect to epidemiology of dengue.

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the relationship between changes in DENV-1 predominance with respect to genetic diversity, prevalence of others serotypes and occurrence of severe dengue.

METHODS

Virus genetic diversity was studied by phylogenetic analysis comparing E gene sequences from 12 viral strains. Data about serotypes predominance obtained in previous studies and official data about dengue incidence were used for analysis.

RESULTS

Selected viruses grouped into genotype V together DENV-1 from Latin America countries, and segregation in four lineages was evidenced. Changes in virus predominance coincided with replacement of lineage, increase in prevalence of DENV-2 and DENV-3 and increase of severe dengue.

CONCLUSION

Genetic divergence could have contributed to changes in DENV-1 predominance. The relationship of the virus with DENV-2 and DENV-3 could create scenarios that promote occurrence of severe cases. More studies are required to ascertain the precise role of serotypes in the epidemiology of dengue.