19 Mar Genomic monitoring and tracking of mpox virus clade Ib in Burundi between july to september 2024
N. Nzoyikorera, L. Schuele, D. F Nieuwenhuijse , C. Nduwimana , T. Ihorimbere , D. Niyomwungere , H. Cassidy , M. Boter , C. Nibogora , A. Ndihokubwayo , A. Niyomwungere , D. Nizigiyimana , M. N Uwineza , I. Diawara , S. Otani , F.M Aarestrup , M. Koopmans , J.Nyandwi , &
B.B O Munnink
Abstract
Background : Since the first identification of mpox virus (MPXV) clade Ib in Burundi in July
2024, Burundi is one of the most affected countries in this evolving outbreak outside of
the DRC.
Methods :
Here we aimed to understand the route(s) of introduction and spread of MPXV
throughout the first months of the outbreak in Burundi. In total, 98 genome sequences from
cases diagnosed during the first three months of the outbreak were generated.
Results:
Here we show using phylogenetic analysis that the virus was introduced from the
DRC and Bayesian evolutionary analysis shows that different clusters could be identified in
Burundi leading to further spread within the country.
Conclusions : In summary, we identify sustained circulation of clade Ib MPXV in Burundi,
most likely after several different introductions from the bordering province of South KivuDRC. The virus has acquired several additional APOBEC-3 mediate