Co-Diagnostics Confirms Chikungunya Primer Reactivity Against Virus Strains

On September 11, 2025, Co-Diagnostics, Inc. (Nasdaq: CODX), a significant player in the molecular diagnostics sector, announced the successful completion of an in silico analysis of its Co-Primers® used in PCR tests designed for the detection of the chikungunya virus (CHIKV). This extensive analysis showcased a high level of homology with over 1,200 known CHIKV sequences, validating the primers' reactivity against recent virus strains.

Chikungunya, which has been reported in nearly 250,000 cases globally this year, poses a severe health risk, particularly in South America, Africa, Asia, and Europe. As climate change contributes to the expansion of mosquito habitats, approximately 5.6 billion people across 119 countries now live in regions at risk for this mosquito-borne disease. The consequences of chikungunya can be dire, leading to debilitating joint pain in up to 40% of infected individuals, with symptoms lingering for months or even years.

The economic burden of chikungunya is significant, particularly for low- and middle-income nations, highlighting the urgency for effective diagnostic solutions. The Co-Diagnostics Logix Smart® ZDC Test, which received CE marking regulatory approval in 2019, is crucial in this battle. The test employs the patented Co-Primers technology to simultaneously detect and differentiate the RNA of CHIKV, Zika, and dengue, ensuring accurate diagnoses from blood samples.

Accurate differentiation of CHIKV from other similar infections, such as dengue, is vital for clinicians. It prevents the inopportune administration of specific pain and fever medications that could exacerbate the risks for patients with severe dengue. Thus, proper identification allows for timely intervention and aids in reducing the spread of the virus by advising infected individuals to limit interactions with mosquitoes.

Additionally, Co-Diagnostics offers the Vector Smart® VZDC Test, which is used exclusively for environmental purposes by mosquito abatement districts (MADs). This test is part of a larger suite to identify various pathogens, including CHIKV, in mosquito populations, thus aiding public health efforts across around 30 MADs in approximately 20 U.S. states.

Co-Diagnostics is further expanding its reach through its Indian joint venture, CoSara Diagnostics Pvt Ltd, which received approval in 2021 to manufacture and distribute its multiplex RT-PCR test for dengue and chikungunya. This initiative is built upon the same Co-Primers technology that underlines all of its diagnostic tests.

In conclusion, Co-Diagnostics' advancements in chikungunya diagnostics mark a significant step toward managing this public health challenge. With its commitment to developing innovative diagnostic solutions, the company continues to play a pivotal role in global health, particularly crucial as chikungunya cases surge due to expanding mosquito habitats caused by climate change. Effective early detection and monitoring are essential in mitigating the impacts of chikungunya, thus safeguarding public health on a broader scale.