Molecular Characterization of Coxsackievirus B5 from the Sputum of Pneumonia Children Patients of Kunming, Southwest China

Abstract Background Coxsackievirus B5 (CVB5) can cause respiratory infections. However, the molecular epidemiological information about CVB5 in respiratory tract samples is still limited. Here, we report five cases in which CVB5 was detected in sputum sample of pneumonia children patients from Kunming, southwest China. Methods CVB5 isolates were isolated in H1-HeLa cells. Whole-genome sequencing of CVB5 isolates from sputum was performed using segmented PCR, and phylogenetic, mutation and recombination analysis, followed by prediction of the tertiary protein structure. Results A total of five CVB5 complete genome sequences were obtained. No obvious homologous recombination signals comparing with other CVBs were observed in the five isolates. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the five CVB5 sputum isolates were from a independent branch in genogroup E. Conclusions We unexpectedly found five cases of CVB5 infection instead of rhinoviruses infection during our routine surveillance of rhinoviruses in respiratory tract samples. All five patients were hospitalized with pneumonia symptoms and were not tested for enterovirus during their hospitalization. This report suggests that enterovirus surveillance in patients with respiratory symptoms should be strengthened.