“…Given the diversity of the HIV-1 subtypes and their varied distribution, prevalence and transmission modes, it is crucial to build an HIV molecular transmission network among HIV-infected individuals, not only to infer dissemination relationships over greater geographic areas and longer periods, but also to identify potential transmission hotspots 18 . By combining molecular networks with field epidemiological surveys and social network analysis, a comprehensive transmission network can be constructed, which can be used to formulate tailored intervention measures to prevent new HIV outbreaks 19 . Besides numerous molecular epidemiological studies in China, an HIV molecular transmission network-based prevention and control plan has also been initiated by Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, with two versions of Technical Guidelines released and pilot projects initiated over the past few years.…”