Intensive genomic analysis and computer-based modelling resulted in comprehensive characterisation of all HRV A2 polyprotein sequences and, by superimposing the sites of known receptor contacts, we were able to propose a more robust taxonomic placement for these newly identified viruses (NIVs). Detailed medical chart reviews on HRV-QPM-positive (prototype HRV A2) individuals were augmented by a severity scoring system which quantified the outcome of infection by this apparently uncharacteristically pathogenic clade of HRV strains.