Preprint Policy

Global Virology Reports (GVR) supports open scholarly communication and recognizes the value of preprint servers in facilitating the rapid dissemination of early research findings. Therefore, the prior posting of a submitted manuscript on a non-commercial, community-recognized preprint server (such as arXiv, bioRxiv, medRxiv, or SSRN) is not considered prior publication and will not jeopardize consideration for peer review.

Author Responsibilities at Submission
Upon submission to GVR, authors are required to:

·       Mandatory Disclosure: Clearly state that a version of the manuscript has been posted as a preprint and provide the preprint server name and the permanent Digital Object Identifier (DOI) in the cover letter and within the manuscript submission system.

·       Confirm Eligibility: Attest that the manuscript has not undergone formal, anonymous peer review at another journal. The preprint itself constitutes a prior public disclosure, but it must not have been previously rejected from another journal after peer review.

·       Update the Preprint Record (Optional but Encouraged): Authors are encouraged, but not required, to update their preprint record with a link to the final published version in GVR upon acceptance. This creates a bidirectional link that benefits the scholarly record.

Editorial and Peer Review Process

·       The existence of a preprint will not influence the editorial decision on the manuscript's suitability for peer review.

·       Reviewers may be made aware of the preprint and may consult it; however, they will be instructed to treat the submitted manuscript as confidential and to base their assessment solely on its content.

Media Embargo
If a manuscript is under consideration at GVR, authors are expected to refrain from actively promoting the preprint version through press releases or direct media outreach until after the publication process is complete. This helps preserve the integrity of the peer review process.

Citation of Preprints
Authors may cite relevant preprints in their reference list. Upon acceptance of the manuscript, authors are responsible for replacing preprint citations with the final journal article reference if it has since been published.