Work

Rapid genomic characterization of imported chikungunya virus informs frontline response, China, 2025

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: In May 2025, an imported chikungunya virus (CHIKV) case was detected in Shanghai, a megacity endemic for Aedes albopictus. Within 48 hours of sample receipt, we used a culture-independent metatranscriptomic workflow to recover the complete viral genome directly from clinical serum. Phylogenetic analysis identified an Indonesian origin and, critically, the absence of the E1-A226V mutation, suggesting a lower vector adaptation risk. The subsequent absence of secondary cases was consistent with this profile and prompt vector control.

Source: International Journal of Infectious Diseases

DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2026.108678

Authors: Xuechun Zhang, Xinchen Lu, Li Zhang, Yu Gu, Wenxin Ying, Bing Zhao

Institution: Fudan University

Language: English

Topic: Mosquito-borne diseases and control

Subfield: Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,900