Genetic characterization of infectious bursal disease virus strains with distinct VP2 amino acid profiles emerging in Pakistan.

Infectious bursal disease (IBDV) poses a significant threat to the global poultry industry and causes major economic losses. This study presents the genetic profile of IBDV strains emerging in Pakistan, focusing on the VP2 amino acid profile. The effects of these changes on disease transmission, vaccine effectiveness, and overall chicken health are concerning. A meticulous analysis was carried out by isolating and clustering IBDV strains collected from Faisalabad district of Pakistan. The genetics of these viruses were evaluated by analyzing the VP2 gene, the main component of the virus. Importantly, our results reveal the existence of IBDV strains with unprecedented VP2 amino acid profiles, indicating genetic changes that may affect virulence and immunity. This study highlighted the changing IBDV landscape in Pakistan and underscores the importance of continued research and surveillance efforts. Understanding the genetic structure of these emerging diseases is essential for developing effective control strategies, including vaccine development and control. This also emphasized the need for international cooperation to reduce the spread of the new IBDV strains, which could significantly impact the poultry industry outside Pakistan.