RT - Journal TY - JOUR A1 - Motlagh, Zahra A1 - Mokhtari, Azam A1 - Mahzounieh, Mohammadreza T1 - Genomic identification of human vaccinia virus keratoconjunctivitis and its importance as a laboratory-acquired infection YR - 2016/12/1 JF - Indian Journal of Ophthalmology JO - Indian J Ophthalmol SP - 806 OP - 812 VO - 64 IS - 11 UL - https://journals.lww.com/ijo/pages/default.aspx/article.asp?issn=0301-4738;year=2016;volume=64;issue=11;spage=806;epage=812;aulast=Motlagh;t=5 DO - 10.4103/0301-4738.195592 N2 - 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. ER -