Short- and long-read sequencing platforms provide end-to-end support from asymptomatic screening to precision traceability, addressing the unique challenges of human-to-human transmission Hantavirus.
Shenzhen, China, 13 May 2026 – In response to the recent outbreak of Andes Hantavirus (ANDV), MGI Tech today announced the deployment of its RNA Pathogen Metagenomic Sequencing Solution and its CycloneSEQ Comprehensive Metagenomic Sequencing Solution. Leveraging MGI’s unique “SEQ ALL” matrix advantage (combining DNBSEQ short-read and CycloneSEQ long-read technologies), these solutions provide a complete technical chain for rapid diagnosis, outbreak tracking, and prevention decision-making.
Andes Hantavirus, carried primarily by rodents, has an incubation period of up to 45 days, allowing asymptomatic carriers to travel across regions. Once symptoms appear, the disease progresses rapidly into Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) and shock, with no widely available vaccines or antiviral drugs.
Core Advantages of RNA Pathogen Metagenomic Next-Generation Sequencing (mNGS)
1. No Preset Targets
Utilizing the MGIEasy Fast RNA Library Prep Kit, the solution captures and sequences all nucleic acids without bias. It not only identifies Hantavirus but also co-detects Chikungunya, Nipah, seasonal influenza, and other potential pathogens, preventing missed diagnoses of mixed infections. For environments like cruise ships, regular metagenomic analysis of wastewater can trigger early warnings before the first symptomatic case appears, shifting from passive response to proactive prevention.
2. Fully Automated Workflow, Meeting Large-Scale Surveillance Demands
Covering the entire “extraction-library preparation-sequencing-analysis” workflow, the solution utilizes the SP-100RS Automated Sample Preparation System to significantly reduce manual errors and workload, balancing efficiency and cost for mass screening.
3. Integrated Bioinformatics Tools
The Pathogen Fast Identification platform (PFI) and Metagenome Assembly and Pathogen Tracking software (MGAP) enable rapid data QC, pathogen identification, genome assembly, and functional annotation. PFI shortens diagnosis time for suspected cases, while MGAP enables high-precision whole-genome assembly of Hantavirus for mutation analysis, strain typing, and traceability studies.
4. Proven Track Record
This solution has been validated during multiple public health emergencies, including COVID-19, Mpox, Chikungunya, and Psittacosis, assisting national and local CDCs in identifying and tracing unknown pathogens.
The Benefits of CycloneSEQ Long-Read
The complementary CycloneSEQ Comprehensive Metagenomic Sequencing Solution provides critical support for rapid diagnosis of rare pathogens like ANDV.
- Complete Genome Assembly: Spans DNA repeat regions to avoid fragmented assemblies.
- Real-Time Detection: Data is collected and output in real-time, suitable for emergency scenarios.
- Portable and Flexible: Compact device enables on-site sequencing, dramatically reducing sample transport time.
A Commitment to Global Public Health
From COVID-19 and Mpox to Chikungunya and Nipah virus responses, MGI continues to provide core tools for global public health systems. With the world’s first commercially mass-produced platform integrating both short-read and long-read capabilities, MGI remains dedicated to meeting the needs of strengthening the global defense line for life and health with the power of technology.
