Human Infection with Japanese Encephalitis Virus Genotype V, China, 2025

A case of Japanese encephalitis virus genotype V (JEV GV) infection was confirmed in China in 2025 in a male neonate. The child was born on October 6, 2025, and developed high fever on day 21 after birth. During hospitalization from October 27 to November 6, 2025, the patient presented with persistent fever, coma, and convulsions. The patient died on November 7, 2025. The diagnosis was confirmed by laboratory testing of cerebrospinal fluid and serum samples using PCR and serological tests. Genetic analysis showed the virus belongs to genotype V, which was first identified in 1952 in Malaysia and Singapore. This case confirms the persistent threat of JEV GV in China and its emergence as a significant pathogen for public health.