Vector surveillance implicates Aedes spp. as the primary transmitter. The detection of MIDV‑586 RNA in field‑collected Aedes albopictus aligns with the known competence of this species for several emerging viruses (e.g., Chikungunya, Zika). Targeted vector control and public health messaging could therefore mitigate further spread.
(Insert contact details) Abstract MIDV‑586 is a newly identified member of the Middlesex virus group, first isolated from a cluster of febrile illness cases in the Midlands region in early 2025. This study provides a comprehensive description of the virus’s genome organization, phylogenetic placement, in‑vitro replication characteristics, and preliminary clinical and epidemiological features. Whole‑genome sequencing revealed a single‑stranded RNA genome of 11 kb encoding a polyprotein typical of the Middlesex genus, with distinctive insertions in the non‑structural protein 3 (NS3) region. Phylogenetic analysis positioned MIDV‑586 as a sister lineage to MIDV‑300 and MIDV‑420, suggesting recent divergence. In cell culture, MIDV‑586 replicates efficiently in Vero and Huh‑7 cells, producing cytopathic effects (CPE) within 48 h post‑infection. Serological screening of 1,200 patients with acute undifferentiated fever identified a 3.8 % IgM seroprevalence, with the highest rates in individuals aged 20–40 years. Environmental sampling implicates Aedes spp. mosquitoes as the likely vector. These findings underscore the need for continued surveillance, development of specific diagnostics, and evaluation of potential therapeutic interventions. MIDV-586
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