Identification of 2 Novel Subtypes of Hepatitis C Virus Genotype 8 and a Potential New Genotype Successfully Treated With Direct Acting Antivirals.

Background: Hepatitis C virus (HCV) has high genetic diversity and is classified into 8 genotypes and >90 subtypes, with some endemic to specific world regions. This could compromise direct-acting antiviral efficacy and global HCV elimination.

Methods: We characterized HCV subtypes "rare" in the United Kingdom (non-1a/1b/2b/3a/4d) by means of whole-genome sequencing via a national surveillance program.