First detection of JC polyomavirus in vaginal secretions from nonpregnant women: Exploring sexual transmission as a potential route of infection.

Objectives: JC polyomavirus (JCPyV) is a ubiquitous human virus responsible for asymptomatic lifelong persistent infection. Profound immunosuppression, or prolonged treatment with specific immunomodulatory molecules, may result in the development of Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy (PML). The main mode of JCPyV transmission remains uncertain. This study aimed to evaluate the presence of JCPyV DNA in vaginal secretions to encourage further research on sexual transmission.

Methods: JCPyV DNA presence was assessed in 293 vaginal swabs of sexually active nonpregnant women through real-time PCR. Samples were selected from individuals attending a screening program for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) at a Portuguese University.

Results: JCPyV genome was detected in vaginal secretions of 5.1% of the evaluated women. All JCPyV genomes detected were found to belong to the archetype strain, which is commonly associated with virus transmission. Infection with Chlamydia trachomatis was diagnosed in 20% of women with JCPyV in vaginal secretions.

Conclusions: The findings of this pioneering study suggest that, in addition to other modes of transmission, sexual route may be a potential mode of JCPyV infection acquisition. If it could be proven that JCPyV could be transmitted sexually, protective measures during sexual activity should be reinforced, especially among discordant couples where the noninfected partner belongs to a risk group of developing PML.