HIV-Vielfalt in Kinshasa, Demokratische Republik Kongo

HIV has a genetic diversity that corresponds to the complexity of its management. Group M (Major) is the dominant group in Central Africa. The distribution of this group in Africa, and particularly in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), is very heterogeneous; it follows a complex and specific algorithm. This distribution is highly dynamic, evolving, and unpredictable; it will continue to diversify as long as the virus circulates. The geographical distribution of HIV-1 variants in the DRC is also closely linked to the distribution of variants in neighboring countries. In the northeastern neighboring countries, the predominant strains are D, C, A, and B, while in the southeastern neighboring countries, strains A, C, and D dominate. In Kinshasa, as throughout the country, it is a true mosaic, varying by province. Over the years, some subtypes have become established, while others have faded due to pressure and various selections. The molecular epidemic of HIV-1 in Kinshasa indicates a persistence of subtype A and a significant increase of CRF02_AG in the general population over the years.