Chen Quanjiao, a researcher with the Wuhan Institute of Virology, has refuted an online rumor that claimed the novel coronavirus was leaked from the institute, according to a statement published on its official website on Monday evening.  Someone faked her identity, she said. 

"I have never posted any such things, and I'm indignant about the fabrication of the rumor using my identity. I will pursue legal action against the rumor-maker according to the law," Chen said in the statement.  

The statement came after a rumor went viral on Chinese social media platform Weibo, saying Chen reported Wang Yanyi, director of the institute, for leaking the virus. Her ID number was included in the fabricated post on Weibo.  

"Recently, a series of rumors have affected our front-line scientific research personnel. Please strictly guard against related plots and sabotage activities," she said.  

Chen has been working on influenza viruses at the institute since 2001, according to the official website.

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