Global genetic connections of emerging G8P[8] Rotavirus A strains in Sabah, Malaysia

Rotavirus A (RVA) is a major cause of acute gastroenteritis in young children, yet genomic data from Malaysia, particularly Sabah, are limited. This study reports the first whole-genome sequence analysis of two G8P[8] RVA strains (L3 and L14) detected in Sabah. Both strains displayed a DS-1-like genotype constellation and clustered closely with East Asian strains. However, VP6 and VP3 gene segments showed phylogenetic links to strains from Belgium, Cameroon and Brazil, suggesting historical global genetic exchange. These findings highlight the expanding distribution of G8P[8] and the need for continued surveillance to evaluate its epidemiological and vaccine impact.