Presence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) type 1, group M, non-B subtypes, Bronx, New York: a sentinel site for monitoring HIV genetic diversity in the United States.

In the United States, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) type 1, group M, subtype B is the predominant subtype. A cross-sectional study of HIV-infected patients at the Bronx-Lebanon Hospital Center, Bronx, NY, between September 1997 and February 1998 identified 3 (1. 2%) of 252 persons infected with non-B subtypes: subtypes A and F, 1 each, and 1 potential recombinant subtype B(env)/F(prt). All 3 persons were born in the United States and tested positive for HIV antibodies between 1988 and 1997 while living in the Bronx. None reported travel to other countries, receipt of blood products, or drug injection. This study is among the first to indicate probable transmission of non-B HIV-1 subtypes in the United States. The occurrence of non-B HIV-1 subtypes in long-term US residents without a history of foreign travel may have implications for the evaluation and development of antiretroviral drugs, vaccines, and tests intended for use in the United States to diagnose HIV infection and screen blood.