Arbovirus researchers unite: expanding genomic surveillance for an urgent global need

Abstract

Arthropod-borne viruses (arboviruses) are transmitted by arthropod vectors to humans, leading to disease outbreaks mainly in tropical regions of the world.1 Although many arboviruses are known, three Aedes-spp-borne viruses are particularly concerning for humans at a global scale due to recurring large and expanding epidemic outbreaks of dengue virus, Zika virus, and chikungunya virus. These viruses cause a heavy disease burden with mild to potentially life-threatening symptoms, resulting in substantial short-term and long-term morbidity and mortality.