Genomic identification of human vaccinia virus keratoconjunctivitis and its importance as a laboratory-acquired infection

CONTEXT: Vaccinia virus (VACV) is a member of orthopoxvirus genus of the family Poxviridae. VACVs are enveloped, double-stranded DNA viruses. Several species of this family, for example, molluscum contagiosum, smallpox, deerpox, horsepox, rabbitpox, and VACVs may cause conjunctivitis. AIMS: Given the high incidence of keratoconjunctivitis in Iran (approximately 3.6%–53.9%) and insufficient clinical diagnostic measures, laboratory tests for detection of its causes and determination of accurate keratoconjunctivitis/conjunctivitis prevalence due to different pathogens are essential. SETTINGS AND DESIGN: In this research, conjunctival samples collected from 100 patients with keratoconjunctivitis signs were referred to an eye hospital of Iran. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: After DNA extraction, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was carried out for detection of VACV. PCR-positive products were further subjected to DNA sequencing. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED: The results were analyzed using Chi-square test. RESULTS: In this study, 28% of the samples were positive and a statistically significant relationship obtained between working in medical or research laboratories and VACV prevalence (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: This study showed a high rate of VACV keratoconjunctivitis, and therefore, further studies for its prevention and control are necessary.