Development of an Inactivated Vaccine Candidate, BBIBP-CorV, with Potent Protection against SARS-CoV-2.

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) threatens global public health. The development of a vaccine is urgently needed for the prevention and control of COVID-19. Here, we report the pilot-scale production of an inactivated SARS-CoV-2 vaccine candidate (BBIBP-CorV) that induces high levels of neutralizing antibodies titers in mice, rats, guinea pigs, rabbits, and nonhuman primates (cynomolgus monkeys and rhesus macaques) to provide protection against SARS-CoV-2. Two-dose immunizations using 2 µg/dose of BBIBP-CorV provided highly efficient protection against SARS-CoV-2 intratracheal challenge in rhesus macaques, without detectable antibody-dependent enhancement of infection. In addition, BBIBP-CorV exhibits efficient productivity and good genetic stability for vaccine manufacture. These results support the further evaluation of BBIBP-CorV in a clinical trial.

Prevalence and diversity of imported severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 variants in China, 2021-2022.

The causative agent of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), known as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has spread accumulatively to 240 countries and continues to evolve. To gain a comprehensive understanding of the epidemiological characteristics of imported variants in China and their correlation with global circulating variants, genomic surveillance data from 11 139 imported COVID-19 cases submitted by Chinese provincial CDC laboratories between 2021 and 2022 were analyzed. Consensus sequences underwent rigorous quality checks, followed by amino acid mutations analysis using Nextclade. Sequences with satisfactory quality control status were classified according to the Pango nomenclature. The results showed that the dominant variants in imported cases reflected the global epidemic trend. An increase in the number of imported SARS-CoV-2 lineages monitored in China in the second half of 2022, and the circulating Omicron subvariants changed from the ancestral lineages of BA.5 and BA.2 into the lineages containing key amino acid mutations of spike protein. There was significant variation in the detection of Omicron subvariants among continents (χ2 = 321.968, p < 0.001) in the second half of 2022, with four lineages (BA.2.3.7, BA.2.2, BA.5.2.7, and XBB.1.2) identified through imported surveillance mainly prevalent respectively in Taiwan, China, Hong Kong SAR, China, Russian Federation, and Singapore. These findings revealed the alterations in circulating imported variants from 2021 to 2022 in China, reflecting the higher diversity of lineages in the second half of 2022, and revealed the predominant lineages of countries or regions that are in close contacts to China, providing new insights into the global prevalence of SARS-CoV-2.

Orthogonal genome-wide screens of bat cells identify MTHFD1 as a target of broad antiviral therapy.

Bats are responsible for the zoonotic transmission of several major viral diseases, including those leading to the 2003 SARS outbreak and likely the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. While comparative genomics studies have revealed characteristic adaptations of the bat innate immune system, functional genomic studies are urgently needed to provide a foundation for the molecular dissection of the viral tolerance in bats. Here we report the establishment of genome-wide RNA interference (RNAi) and CRISPR libraries for the screening of the model megabat, Pteropus alecto. We used the complementary RNAi and CRISPR libraries to interrogate P. alecto cells for infection with two different viruses: mumps virus and influenza A virus, respectively. Independent screening results converged on the endocytosis pathway and the protein secretory pathway as required for both viral infections. Additionally, we revealed a general dependence of the C1-tetrahydrofolate synthase gene, MTHFD1, for viral replication in bat cells and human cells. The MTHFD1 inhibitor, carolacton, potently blocked replication of several RNA viruses, including SARS-CoV-2. We also discovered that bats have lower expression levels of MTHFD1 than humans. Our studies provide a resource for systematic inquiry into the genetic underpinnings of bat biology and a potential target for developing broad-spectrum antiviral therapy.

A Novel Coronavirus from Patients with Pneumonia in China, 2019.

In December 2019, a cluster of patients with pneumonia of unknown cause was linked to a seafood wholesale market in Wuhan, China. A previously unknown betacoronavirus was discovered through the use of unbiased sequencing in samples from patients with pneumonia. Human airway epithelial cells were used to isolate a novel coronavirus, named 2019-nCoV, which formed a clade within the subgenus sarbecovirus, Orthocoronavirinae subfamily. Different from both MERS-CoV and SARS-CoV, 2019-nCoV is the seventh member of the family of coronaviruses that infect humans. Enhanced surveillance and further investigation are ongoing. (Funded by the National Key Research and Development Program of China and the National Major Project for Control and Prevention of Infectious Disease in China.).

Genotyping and traceability analysis of norovirus in Yantai between 2017 and 2019.

To investigate the diversity and evolution of noroviruses in Yantai in recent years, this study focused on the coat protein regions of norovirus-positive samples with nucleic acid detection (cycle threshold) values below 30 between 2017 and 2019. A total of 81 sequences were obtained for genotyping. Initially, a high-throughput sequencing approach was established to perform the whole-genome sequencing of multiple typical diarrheal strains. Using bioinformatics software such as BEAST, recombinant variant analysis was performed for each genotype of the norovirus strains, and genetic evolutionary analysis was conducted for the dominant strain GII.4, as well as the rare variant GII.21. The results showed that there were multiple genotypes such as GI.3, GI.6, GI.7, GII.1, GII.2, GII.3, GII.4, GII.6, GII.13, GII.17, GII.21, and GIX.1 in the positive samples of norovirus from 2017 to 2019. GII.4 is characterized by diverse genotypes, with new changes in antigenic epitopes occurring during the course of the epidemic. This may have led to the emergence of a new pandemic. This suggests a need to strengthen surveillance. The results of this study suggest that attention should be paid to the predominant genotypes prevalent in neighboring countries and regions, and the safety supervision of imported food should be strengthened to aid in the prevention and control of related viruses.

SARS-CoV-2 cold-chain transmission: Characteristics, risks, and strategies.

Low temperature and certain humidity are conducive to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) for long-time survival and long-distance spread during logistics and trades. Contaminated cold-chain or frozen products and outer packaging act as the carrier of SARS-CoV-2, that infects the high-risk population who works in the ports, cold storage or seafood market. Since the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic worldwide, multiple localized outbreaks caused by SARS-CoV-2 contaminated imported cold-chain products have been reported in China, which brought challenges to COVID-19 prevention and control. Here, we review the evidences of SARS-CoV-2 cold-chain transmission from six confirmed cold-chain related COVID-19 outbreaks in China, especially in terms of SARS-CoV-2 whole-genome sequencing and virus isolation. In addition, we summarize the characteristics and mode of SARS-CoV-2 cold-chain transmission from both six COVID-19 outbreaks in China and the outbreaks suspected cold-chain transmission in other countries. Finally, we analyze the underlying risks of SARS-CoV-2 cold-chain transmission and propose the preventive countermeasures.

Genomic characterisation and epidemiology of 2019 novel coronavirus: implications for virus origins and receptor binding.

BACKGROUND: In late December, 2019, patients presenting with viral pneumonia due to an unidentified microbial agent were reported in Wuhan, China. A novel coronavirus was subsequently identified as the causative pathogen, provisionally named 2019 novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV). As of Jan 26, 2020, more than 2000 cases of 2019-nCoV infection have been confirmed, most of which involved people living in or visiting Wuhan, and human-to-human transmission has been confirmed. METHODS: We did next-generation sequencing of samples from bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and cultured isolates from nine inpatients, eight of whom had visited the Huanan seafood market in Wuhan. Complete and partial 2019-nCoV genome sequences were obtained from these individuals. Viral contigs were connected using Sanger sequencing to obtain the full-length genomes, with the terminal regions determined by rapid amplification of cDNA ends. Phylogenetic analysis of these 2019-nCoV genomes and those of other coronaviruses was used to determine the evolutionary history of the virus and help infer its likely origin. Homology modelling was done to explore the likely receptor-binding properties of the virus. FINDINGS: The ten genome sequences of 2019-nCoV obtained from the nine patients were extremely similar, exhibiting more than 99·98% sequence identity. Notably, 2019-nCoV was closely related (with 88% identity) to two bat-derived severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS)-like coronaviruses, bat-SL-CoVZC45 and bat-SL-CoVZXC21, collected in 2018 in Zhoushan, eastern China, but were more distant from SARS-CoV (about 79%) and MERS-CoV (about 50%). Phylogenetic analysis revealed that 2019-nCoV fell within the subgenus Sarbecovirus of the genus Betacoronavirus, with a relatively long branch length to its closest relatives bat-SL-CoVZC45 and bat-SL-CoVZXC21, and was genetically distinct from SARS-CoV. Notably, homology modelling revealed that 2019-nCoV had a similar receptor-binding domain structure to that of SARS-CoV, despite amino acid variation at some key residues. INTERPRETATION: 2019-nCoV is sufficiently divergent from SARS-CoV to be considered a new human-infecting betacoronavirus. Although our phylogenetic analysis suggests that bats might be the original host of this virus, an animal sold at the seafood market in Wuhan might represent an intermediate host facilitating the emergence of the virus in humans. Importantly, structural analysis suggests that 2019-nCoV might be able to bind to the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 receptor in humans. The future evolution, adaptation, and spread of this virus warrant urgent investigation. FUNDING: National Key Research and Development Program of China, National Major Project for Control and Prevention of Infectious Disease in China, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shandong First Medical University.

In Vitro Antiviral Activity and Projection of Optimized Dosing Design of Hydroxychloroquine for the Treatment of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2).

BACKGROUND: The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) first broke out in 2019 and subsequently spread worldwide. Chloroquine has been sporadically used in treating SARS-CoV-2 infection. Hydroxychloroquine shares the same mechanism of action as chloroquine, but its more tolerable safety profile makes it the preferred drug to treat malaria and autoimmune conditions. We propose that the immunomodulatory effect of hydroxychloroquine also may be useful in controlling the cytokine storm that occurs late phase in critically ill patients with SARS-CoV-2. Currently, there is no evidence to support the use of hydroxychloroquine in SARS-CoV-2 infection. METHODS: The pharmacological activity of chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine was tested using SARS-CoV-2-infected Vero cells. Physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) models were implemented for both drugs separately by integrating their in vitro data. Using the PBPK models, hydroxychloroquine concentrations in lung fluid were simulated under 5 different dosing regimens to explore the most effective regimen while considering the drug's safety profile. RESULTS: Hydroxychloroquine (EC50 = 0.72 µM) was found to be more potent than chloroquine (EC50 = 5.47 µM) in vitro. Based on PBPK models results, a loading dose of 400 mg twice daily of hydroxychloroquine sulfate given orally, followed by a maintenance dose of 200 mg given twice daily for 4 days is recommended for SARS-CoV-2 infection, as it reached 3 times the potency of chloroquine phosphate when given 500 mg twice daily 5 days in advance. CONCLUSIONS: Hydroxychloroquine was found to be more potent than chloroquine to inhibit SARS-CoV-2 in vitro.

Detection of six common human paramyxoviruses in patients with acute febrile respiratory symptoms using a novel multiplex real-time RT-PCR assay.

Human metapneumovirus (hMPV), respiratory syncytial virus type A (RSV-A), RSV-B, and human parainfluenza viruses 1, 2, and 3 (HPIV-1, HPIV-2, and HPIV-3) are common respiratory paramyxoviruses. Here, we developed a two-tube triplex one-step real-time reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (real-time RT-PCR) and evaluated its performance using clinical samples. The data showed that this novel assay was 100% consistent with the monoplex real-time RT-PCR assay (in-house), which was superior to the commercial routine multiplex-ligation-NAT-based assay. Meanwhile, the clinical nasopharyngeal swabs of 471 patients with the acute febrile respiratory syndrome (AFRS) were analyzed using the established method. The results showed that 52 (11.7%) cases were positive for paramyxovirus. Among them, HPIVs and RSV-A had the highest detection rate. The age and seasonal distribution of human paramyxovirus infection were analyzed. In conclusion, we developed a novel multiplex real-time RT-PCR assay for the rapid detection of six common human paramyxoviruses, which were dominant in patients with AFRS in Qinghai.

Ultrapotent Human Neutralizing Antibody Repertoires Against Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus From a Recovered Patient.

Background: The Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) causes severe respiratory infection with a high (~35%) mortality rate. Neutralizing antibodies targeting the spike of MERS-CoV have been shown to be a therapeutic option for treatment of lethal disease. Methods: We describe the germline diversity and neutralizing activity of 13 potent human monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) that target the MERS-CoV spike (S) protein. Biological functions were assessed by live MERS-CoV, pseudotype particle and its variants, and structural basis was also determined by crystallographic analysis. Results: Of the 13 mAbs displaying strong neutralizing activity against MERS-CoV, two with the immunoglobulin heavy-chain variable region (IGHV)1-69-derived heavy chain (named MERS-GD27 and MERS-GD33) showed the most potent neutralizing activity against pseudotyped and live MERS-CoV in vitro. Mutagenesis analysis suggested that MERS-GD27 and MERS-GD33 recognized distinct regions in S glycoproteins, and the combination of 2 mAbs demonstrated a synergistic effect in neutralization against pseudotyped MERS-CoV. The structural basis of MERS-GD27 neutralization and recognition revealed that its epitope almost completely overlapped with the receptor-binding site. Conclusions: Our data provide new insights into the specific antibody repertoires and the molecular determinants of neutralization during natural MERS-CoV infection in humans. This finding supports additional efforts to design and develop novel therapies to combat MERS-CoV infections in humans.

Development of a highly sensitive real-time nested RT-PCR assay in a single closed tube for detection of enterovirus 71 in hand, foot, and mouth disease.

Enterovirus 71 (EV71) is one of the major causative agents of outbreaks of hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD). A commercial TaqMan probe-based real-time PCR assay has been widely used for the differential detection of EV71 despite its relatively high cost and failure to detect samples with a low viral load (Ct value > 35). In this study, a highly sensitive real-time nested RT-PCR (RTN RT-PCR) assay in a single closed tube for detection of EV71 in HFMD was developed. The sensitivity and specificity of this assay were evaluated using a reference EV71 stock and a panel of controls consisting of coxsackievirus A16 (CVA16) and common respiratory viruses, respectively. The clinical performance of this assay was evaluated and compared with those of a commercial TaqMan probe-based real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) assay and a traditional two-step nested RT-PCR assay. The limit of detection for the RTN RT-PCR assay was 0.01 TCID50/ml, with a Ct value of 38.3, which was the same as that of the traditional two-step nested RT-PCR assay and approximately tenfold lower than that of the qRT-PCR assay. When testing the reference strain EV71, this assay showed favorable detection reproducibility and no obvious cross-reactivity. The testing results of 100 clinical throat swabs from HFMD-suspected patients revealed that 41 samples were positive for EV71 by both RTN RT-PCR and traditional two-step nested RT-PCR assays, whereas only 29 were EV71 positive by qRT-PCR assay.

[A novel one-tube multiplex RT-PCR assay for simultaneous detection of six human coronaviruses].

OBJECTIVE: To develop an one-tube multiplex RT-PCR assay for simultaneous detection of six human coronaviruses (HCoVs). METHODS: Genbank sequences of six human coronaviruses, including HCoV-NL63, HCoV-229E, SARS-CoV, HCoV-OC43, MERS-CoV, and HCoV-HKU1, were included as reference sequences. Primers were designed based on multiple alignment of reference sequences, targeting the conserved regions of each species of HcoV. Virus strains and nucleic acid preserved in our lab were used as template in developing this automatic-electrophoresis-based one-tube multiplex RT-PCR assay. Detection limits and reproducibility were also evaluated with these templates. Samples with infection of other respiratory viruses preserved in our lab were used to evaluate specificity of this assay. Finally, we tested this assay with 140 clinical samples that were validated by real-time PCR in parallel. RESULTS: This automatic-electrophoresis-based multiplex RT-PCR assay was able to detect six human coronaviruses simultaneously. All positive samples in this study were detected with at least one specific fragment of anticipated length (195, 304, 332, 378, 415, 442 bp) . No fragment was detected in negative controls. Detection limits of 1.0×10(1-1.0)×10(2) copies/µl were achieved in tests of single virus. No cross reaction was observed with other respiratory viruses. This multiplex RT-PCR assay showed the same sensitivity and specificity to that of individual real-time RT-PCR validated with clinical samples. Both methods detected 28 positive samples (20%) . CONCLUSIONS: Six HCoVs can be detected in one tube by this novel multiplex RT-PCR assay with high sensitivity and specificity.

The state of biosafety across China's CDC microbiology laboratories: insights from a nationwide survey (2021-2023).

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the critical importance of biosafety in microbiology laboratories worldwide. In response, China has ramped up its efforts to enhance biosafety measures within its Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) laboratories. This study provides the first comprehensive assessment of biosafety practices across provincial, city, and county levels of CDC microbiology laboratories in China. Methods: We conducted a nationwide cross-sectional survey from 2021 to 2023, targeting staff from microbiology laboratories within CDCs at all administrative levels in China. Stratified sampling was employed to select respondents, ensuring a representative mix across different CDC hierarchies, job titles, and academic qualifications. The survey encompassed questions on biosafety training, the presence of BSL-2 and BSL-3 laboratories, adherence to general biosafety guidelines, and management practices regarding specimens, reagents, and consumables. Statistical analysis was performed to identify significant differences in biosafety practices among different CDC levels. Results: A total of 990 valid responses were received, highlighting a nearly universal presence (98.69%) of BSL-2 laboratories and a significant yet varied presence of BSL-3 laboratories across the CDC network. The survey revealed high levels of biosafety training (98.69%) and adherence to biosafety protocols. However, challenges remain in the consistent application of certain safety practices, especially at lower administrative levels. Notable differences in the management of specimens, reagents, and consumables point to areas for improvement in ensuring biosecurity. Conclusion: Our findings indicate a robust foundation of biosafety practices within CDC microbiology laboratories in China, reflecting significant advancements in the wake of the Biosecurity Law's implementation. Nevertheless, the variability in adherence to specific protocols underscores the need for ongoing training, resources allocation, and policy refinement to enhance biosafety standards uniformly across all levels. This study's insights are crucial for guiding future improvements in laboratory biosafety, not just in China but potentially in other countries enhancing their public health infrastructures.

Genomic Surveillance for SARS-CoV-2 Variants: Dominance of XBB Replacement - China, January-June 2023.

Introduction: In the first half of 2023, a global shift was observed towards the predominance of XBB variants. China faced a significant epidemic between late 2022 and early 2023 due to Omicron subvariants BA.5.2 and BF.7. This study aims to depict the evolving variant distribution among provincial-level administrative divisions (PLADs) in China and explore the factors driving the predominance of XBB replacement. Methods: Sequences from local and imported coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases recorded between January 1 and June 30, 2023, were included. The study analyzed the changing distribution of viral variants and assessed how the prior dominance of specific variants, XBB subvariants, and imported cases influenced the prevalence of the XBB replacement variant. Results: A total of 56,486 sequences were obtained from local cases, and 8,669 sequences were from imported cases. Starting in April, there was a shift in the prevalence of XBB from imported to local cases, with varying dominance among PLADs. In PLADs previously high in BF.7, the rise of XBB was delayed. A positive correlation was found between XBB proportions in imported cases from January to March and local cases in April. The distribution pattern of XBB subvariants differed between local and imported cases within the same PLAD. No significant differences were noted in the replacement rates of XBB subvariants. Conclusions: The timing of XBB dominance differed among various PLADs in China in the first half of 2023, correlating closely with the prevalence of XBB variants among imported cases.

Rotavirus Infection and Genotyping in Yantai, Shandong Province, 2017-2019.

PURPOSE: Rotavirus (RV) ranked first among infectious diarrhea-causing pathogens in Yantai from 2017 to 2019. This study investigated the seroserotypes of RV in Yantai, Shandong, from 2017 to 2019 to identify the dominant serotypes and explore the epidemic pattern, aiming to effectively reduce the infection rate, better guide vaccination, and help in epidemiological prevention and control. METHODS: A total of 2227 human diarrhea samples were collected from 2017 to 2019 in Yantai. The VP7 (G serotype) and VP4 (P serotype) genes of 467 RV-positive samples were amplified using two-round nested reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction for G/P genotyping. RESULTS: The genotyping results of RV in Yantai from 2017 to 2019 revealed that G9 was the dominant serotype for all G serotypes, P[8] was the dominant serotype for all P serotypes, and G9P[8] was the dominant serotype for all G/P combinations. G9 serotype accounted for 60.84%, 95.65%, and 83.76% of the total RV samples collected in 2017, 2018, and 2019, respectively. P[8] accounted for 75.52%, 94.69%, and 88.89% of the RV-positive samples collected in 2017, 2018, and 2019, respectively. G9P[8] accounted for 60.84%, 94.69%, and 83.76% of the total RV samples collected in 2017, 2018, and 2019, respectively. Of the total 467 samples from 2017 to 2019, G2P[4] accounted for 3.64% (17/467), G3P[8] for 1.28% (6/467), and G1P[8] for 0.86% (4/467). CONCLUSION: This study revealed the epidemiological characteristics of RV infection and the development pattern of dominant serotypes in Yantai in recent years, guiding the selection of RV vaccines. The prioritization of vaccines containing G9 serotype for infants in Yantai in recent years is recommended.

Genomic Surveillance for SARS-CoV-2 - China, September 26, 2022 to January 29, 2023.

Introduction: The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has generated 2,431 variants over the course of its global transmission over the past 3 years. To better evaluate the genomic variation of SARS-CoV-2 before and after the optimization of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) prevention and control strategies, we analyzed the genetic evolution branch composition and genomic variation of SARS-CoV-2 in both domestic and imported cases in China (the data from Hong Kong and Macau Special Administrative Regions and Taiwan, China were not included) from September 26, 2022 to January 29, 2023. Methods: Analysis of the number of genome sequences, sampling time, dynamic changes of evolutionary branches, origin, and clinical typing of SARS-CoV-2 variants submitted by 31 provincial-level administrative divisions (PLADs) and Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps (XPCC) was conducted to assess the accuracy and timeliness of SARS-CoV-2 variant surveillance. Results: From September 26, 2022 to January 29, 2023, 20,013 valid genome sequences of domestic cases were reported in China, with 72 evolutionary branches. Additionally, 1,978 valid genome sequences of imported cases were reported, with 169 evolutionary branches. The prevalence of the Omicron variants of SARS-CoV-2 in both domestic and imported cases was consistent with that of international epidemic variants. Conclusions: This study provides an overview of the prevalence of Omicron variants of SARS-CoV-2 in China. After optimizing COVID-19 prevention and control strategies, no novel Omicron variants of SARS-CoV-2 with altered biological characteristics or public health significance have been identified since December 1, 2022.

Current status and capacity of pathogen laboratories in centers for disease control and prevention in China during the COVID-19 pandemic: A nationwide cross-sectional survey.

The pathogen laboratory (p-lab) is the core and primary department of centers for disease control and prevention (CDCs) in China to respond to infectious disease outbreaks such as COVID-19. To understand the current status and capacity of p-labs in Chinese CDCs during the COVID-19 pandemic, we conducted a nationwide cross-sectional survey among 399 respondents from 239 CDCs. Differences in the current status of p-labs in CDCs of provinces, cities, and counties mainly comprised laboratory equipment, IEIs, mastery of personal occupational skills, and maximum detection capacity. Most CDCs reported a lack of staff and funds for personnel, which should be a priority in China's upcoming public health reform. The development of sequencing technologies has received considerable attention in CDCs. These are mainly used to study respiratory viruses such as influenza and SARS-CoV-2. The COVID-19 pandemic has driven development of the CDCs in China, and personnel and funds are considered key factors in improving the detection capacity of CDC p-labs.

Detection and Genetic Correlation Analysis of Diarrhea Cases and Norovirus in Oysters in Yantai, China.

Background: This study aimed to assess the correlation between Norovirus (NoV), diarrhea, and raw oysters from the eastern coastal areas of Yantai, Shandong, China. Methods: Marine oysters were selected from the three aquatic markets in Laishan district, Yantai City, in March 2019. Meanwhile, 100 fecal samples were collected from patients with diarrhea from the same areas during the same period. Nucleic acids were extracted from these samples and detected by employing reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) for NoV GI/GII. The VP1 gene of the coat protein of NoV was amplified by semi-nested RT-PCR and sequenced. Sequence comparison of VP1 was performed with BioEdit software, and the evolutionary tree was constructed with Mega7.0 software. Results: Of the 151 oysters, 42 (27.8%) were positive for NoV. Among them, 32 (21.2%) were GII-positive, 10 (6.6%) were GI-positive, and one GI VP1 sequence was obtained in the oyster samples. Of 100 fecal samples from patients with diarrhea, 38 were GII-positive and 17 were GI-positive. Totally, 19 GII VP 1 sequences and eight GI VP 1 sequences were obtained. Two G1 VP 1 sequences in two fecal samples showed 98.7% nucleotide sequence identity and 99.1% amino acid sequence identity G1 VP 1 acquired in the oyster sample. Conclusions: The results suggest that oysters may be responsible for the spread of NoV in Yantai, Shandong province, China.

Aetiological Characteristics of Infectious Diarrhea in Yantai City, Shandong Province, China in 2017.

This study aimed to analyse the pathogenic spectrum and epidemiological characteristics of infectious diarrhea in Yantai City, Shandong Province, China and provide a reference for its prevention and control. A total of 713 stool specimens collected within 3 days of diarrhea onset from January to December 2017 at secondary or higher hospitals in Yantai City were tested for 10 causative pathogens, using real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). The top two rotaviruses and norovirus were analysed for typing and geographical distribution. The total positive rate was 46.56% (332/713), and 268 of 713 specimens contained at least one pathogen; 64 had at least two pathogens, accounting for 19.28% of the positive specimens (64/332). The positivity rates of rotavirus (RV), norovirus (NoVs) GI, norovirus (NoVs) GII, enterovirus universal (EV), enteric adenoviruses (EAdV), sapovirus (SaV), astrovirus (Astv), Salmonella (SE), Listeria monocytogenes (LiMo), and Vibrio parahaemolyticus (VP) were 20.06% (143/713), 1.82% (13/713), 12.84% (89/713), 10.66% (76/713), 4.07% (29/713), 0.42% (3/713), 2.38% (17/713), 1.54% (11/713), 1.82% (13/713), and 1.54% (11/713), respectively. Infectious diarrhea showed a high prevalence in young children aged 1-5 years, accounting for 48.6% of the total number of cases. Bacterial diarrhea was predominant in summer, and viral diarrhea was distributed throughout the year, without a significant seasonal pattern. Rotavirus is dominated by G9P, accounting for 81.82%, while norovirus is dominated by the GII type and has diverse characteristics. The aetiology of infectious diarrhea in Yantai is mainly viral, with RV, NoVs, EV, EAdV, and Astv being the most frequent pathogens. Continuous surveillance of infectious diarrhea diseases can help us understand its epidemiological and pathogenic characteristics, thereby taking targeted preventive and control measures in different seasons.

Analysis of the Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 Delta VOC in Yantai, China, August 2021.

Objective: Starting 31 July 2021, a SARS-CoV-2 outbreak occurred in Yantai, Shandong Province. The investigation showed that this outbreak was closely related to the epidemic at Nanjing Lukou Airport. In view of the fact that there were many people involved in this outbreak and these people had a complex activity area, the transmission route cannot be analyzed by simple epidemiological investigation. Here we combined the SARS-COV-2 whole-genome sequencing with epidemiology to determine the epidemic transmission route of Yantai. Methods: Thirteen samples of SARS-CoV-2 outbreak cases from 31 July to 4 August 2021 were collected and identified by fluorescence quantitative PCR, then whole-genome deep sequencing based on NGS was performed, and the data were analyzed and processed by biological software. Results: All sequences were over 29,000 bases in length and all belonged to B.1.617.2, which was the Delta strain. All sequences shared two amino acid deletions and 9 amino acid mutations in Spike protein compared with reference sequence NC_045512.2 (Wuhan virus strain). Compared with the sequence of Lukou Airport Delta strain, the homology was 99.99%. In order to confirm the transmission relationship between patients, we performed a phylogenetic tree analysis. The results showed that patient 1, patient 2, and patient 9 belong to an independent branch, and other patients have a close relationship. Combined with the epidemiological investigation, we speculated that the epidemic of Yantai was transmitted by two routes at the same time. Based on this information, our prevention and control work was carried out in two ways and effectively prevented the further spread of this epidemic.