Abstract
This study continues earlier work aimed at identifying potential natural reservoirs of camelpox virus (CMLV) during interepizootic periods. In 2023-2024, field expeditions in western Kazakhstan led to the collection and analysis of biological samples from camels, rodents and hematophagous insects. Despite the absence of clinical symptoms, PCR-positive results were obtained from camel blood samples. These samples underwent molecular genetic analysis, including viral DNA detection and whole-genome sequenc-ing. Using next-generation sequencing, the complete genome of the Camelpox vi-rus/Beineu/2023 isolate (202.273 bp) was obtained and deposited in the NCBI database (accession number PV920573.1). The isolate showed >98% genetic similarity to the previ-ously described Kazakhstan strain M-96, indicating long-term local circulation of a genet-ically stable variant. Phylogenetic analysis confirmed the isolate’s evolutionary conserva-tism and close relationship with other CMLV strains. The findings suggest that camels serve as a natural reservoir, enabling viral persistence and potential reactivation under stress-related conditions. The observed geographic clustering underscores the need for re-gion-specific molecular surveillance to ensure timely detection of new variants and pre-vent cross-border spread.