#Genomic #epidemiology of two #travel-associated #pediatric #measles viruses within the B3 Lineage

 

Highlights

    • The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) detected a B3 MeV case in 2023 and in 2025.

    • Whole-genome amplification of the two CHOP B3 MeV isolates was performed.

    • The CHOP genomes were assessed with a global dataset of all 168 National Center for Biotechnology Information B3 MeV near-full length genomes from 2005-2025.

    • The CHOP isolates form a clade with 39 other isolates from four countries, 36 of which cluster with a 15 single nucleotide polymorphism cutoff.

    • The CHOP clade diverged in 2019, contains the most recently emerged B3 nodes, and shares a private mutation in the phosphoprotein at a codon undergoing positive selection.

Abstract

Background

Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) identified a MeV case in late 2023 and also early 2025, both of which were associated with international travel. Of the 24 MeV genotypes, the B3 and D8 lineages have been the most prevalent globally since 2021. Initial genotyping indicated that the two CHOP isolates belong to the B3 lineage.

Objectives

To inform MeV molecular surveillance, we conducted a genomic epidemiology analysis to situate the CHOP strains within the global genetic landscape of past and present MeV B3 cases.

Study design

We performed whole-genome amplification, genome assembly, and phylogenomics of our two MeV cases. These strains were then analyzed alongside all 168 National Center for Biotechnology Information near-full length MeV B3 genomes using population and evolutionary genetic approaches. This dataset includes strains isolated from 13 countries between 2005 and 2025.

Results

The two CHOP strains form a monophyletic group with 39 other isolates from four countries; 36 clade members form a discrete network connected by a 15 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) cutoff. The CHOP clade shares a Q45H phosphoprotein mutation at a codon undergoing diversifying selection, as with a H593R hemagglutinin mutation carried by the 2025 CHOP strain. The CHOP clade likely diverged in 2019 and has a median root-to-tip distance of 0.020 compared to 0.017 for the other B3 strains, consistent with this clade encompassing the most recently divergent nodes.

Conclusions

Our work places the CHOP MeV cases within a diversifying and emergent global clade of the dominating B3 lineage that is a future risk due to ongoing B3 MeV transmission.

Source: 

Link: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1386653226000557?dgcid=rss_sd_all

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Beyond the cruise #ship: #Andes #hantavirus and the neglected #onehealth dimensions of global #outbreak #preparedness

 

{Summary}

The ongoing multi-country outbreak of Andes hantavirus linked to an expedition cruise travel has drawn global public health attention. The outbreak was reported to the World Health Organization on 02 May 2026 after a cluster of severe respiratory illness occurred among passengers and crew aboard the MV Hondius, which travelled across remote regions of the South Atlantic following departure from Ushuaia, Argentina. As of 18 May 2026, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) reported 12 cases, including nine confirmed, two probable, and one inconclusive case, as well as three deaths linked to the outbreak. While response efforts have appropriately focused on case detection, isolation, contact monitoring, and clinical management, the event highlights broader gaps in how emerging zoonotic threats are managed globally. Rather than viewing this solely as a cruise-associated outbreak, it should also be understood as a One Health warning signal emerging at the intersection of rodent ecology, environmental and climatic change, expedition tourism, and global human mobility.

(...)

Source: 

Link: https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanam/article/PIIS2667-193X(26)00160-2/fulltext

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#Ebola disease caused by #Bundibugyo virus, #DRC & #Uganda (WHO D.O.N., June 19 '26): 896 confirmed cases and 232 deaths in DRC; No New Cases in Uganda

 

Situation at a glance

    The Bundibugyo virus disease (BVD) outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo continues to evolve rapidly, with sustained transmission and increasing numbers of reported cases. 

    As of 17 June, a cumulative of 896 confirmed cases, including 232 deaths, have been reported from the Democratic Republic of the Congo. 

    As of 18 June, Uganda has reported 19 confirmed cases including two deaths, as well as one probable case who has died. 

    In Uganda, the outbreak remains epidemiologically linked to transmission originating in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, with evidence of both imported infections and secondary transmission among contacts and healthcare workers. 

    Uganda has not reported any new cases since 5 June 2026. 

    National authorities in the two affected countries, in collaboration with WHO and partners, are implementing an extensive set of response measures. 

    A regional preparedness and prioritization framework continues to guide readiness activities across the African Region.

Description of the situation

    Since the last Disease Outbreak News was published on 13 June 2026, the number of confirmed cases and deaths have increased rapidly in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. 

    In total, 915 confirmed cases; 896 from the Democratic Republic of the Congo and 19 from Uganda; and 234 deaths including two from Uganda, have been reported.  

    At least 88 patients have recovered from the disease; 78 patients from the Democratic Republic of the Congo and 10 patients from Uganda. 

(...)

Democratic Republic of the Congo

    Since 13 June when the last Disease Outbreak News was published, an additional 220 confirmed cases, including 96 confirmed deaths, have been reported from the Democratic Republic of the Congo. 

    The increase is in part due to the scale up of testing and diagnostic capacities, enabling testing of the backlog of previously collected samples. 

    As of 17 June 2026, a total of 896 confirmed cases including 232 deaths (case fatality ratio [CFR] 26%) have been reported from the Democratic Republic of Congo. 

    The reported CFR is likely an underestimation, as many deaths that occurred before the outbreak declaration remain under investigation. 

    So far, 78 patients have recovered. 

    Cases have been reported from 33 health zones (HZ) from Ituri (21/36 HZ), North Kivu (11/35 HZ) and South Kivu provinces (1/34 HZ)[1].

    The outbreak remains concentrated in Ituri Province, which accounts for 91.1% (817) of the confirmed cases with a CFR of 22.7% (186/817). 

    The highest number of confirmed cases in Ituri Province are reported from Bunia (247 cases), Rwampara (195 cases), Mongbwalu (189 cases), and Nyankunde (68 cases) health zones. 

    So far, the epicentre of the outbreak remains Ituri, with new confirmed cases reported from an additional four health zones as of 17 June. 

    However, the identification of cases in some of these newly reporting health zones may reflect previously undetected transmission rather than recent introduction of the virus. 

    Epidemiological investigations indicate that transmission had likely been occurring in some of these areas for several weeks before the first cases were confirmed and reported. 

    Of the total confirmed cases, 17 are awaiting distribution by health zone.

    As of 17 June, 6367 contacts have been identified and are under follow-up across Ituri (4659), North Kivu (1628), and South Kivu (80) provinces. 

    Of these, 4525 contacts have been followed up, corresponding to follow-up rates of 70.8% in Ituri, 70.5% in North Kivu, and 100% in South Kivu.

    The outbreak is unfolding in a complex humanitarian and conflict-affected environment, characterized by highly mobile and often displaced populations, often lacking access to basic services, including food, clean water, shelter, healthcare and protection which poses an increased risk to the populations living in overcrowded internally displaced camps. 

    These dynamics, combined with increasing security-related incidents affecting health facilities, have posed additional operational challenges in affected provinces, such as constrained access for response teams, disrupted surveillance and response activities, and heightened risk of undetected transmission. 

    These conditions underscore the need for response efforts to be led by local leaders and anchored in communities.

___

Figure 2: Number of confirmed cases (n = 896), in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, by date of reporting as of 17 June 2026 

{Click on Image to Enlarge}

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Figure 3: Number of deaths among confirmed cases (n = 232), in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, by date of reporting as of 17 June 2026

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Uganda

    The last confirmed case was reportedly identified on 5 June 2026.  

    As of 18 June 2026, a cumulative of 19 confirmed cases including two deaths in imported cases (reported on 15 May and 5 June), and one probable case who has died, have been reported. 

    Of the confirmed cases, 14 cases are imported and five are secondary transmission among contacts and health workers following cases imported from the Democratic Republic of the Congo. 

    The cases have been reported from two districts, Kampala and Wakiso, both part of the Kampala Metropolitan Area. 

    To date, there has been no documented community transmission in Uganda. 

    Exposure risks are associated with healthcare settings and cross-border movements. 

    Following case reclassification, the number of affected healthcare workers was revised from five to four. 

    In total 10 recoveries have been reported to date.

    Of the 826 contacts listed as of 18 June, a total of 122 contacts are under active follow up and 694 contacts have completed their 21-day follow-up period.

___

Figure 4: Number of confirmed cases (n = 19), in Uganda by date of reporting as of 18 June 2026 

{Click on Image to Enlarge}

Epidemiology

    Bundibugyo virus disease (BVD) is a severe and often fatal form of Ebola disease caused by the Bundibugyo virus, one of the Orthoebolavirus species. 

    It is a zoonotic disease, with fruit bats suspected to be the natural reservoir. 

    Human infection is thought to occur through close contact with the blood or secretions of infected wildlife, such as bats or non-human primates, and it subsequently spreads from person to person through direct contact with the blood, secretions, organs, or other bodily fluids of infected individuals or contaminated surfaces or items. 

    Transmission is particularly amplified in health-care settings when infection prevention and control (IPC) measures are inadequate, and during unsafe burial practices involving direct contact with the deceased.

    The incubation period for BVD ranges from two to 21 days, and individuals are not infectious until symptom onset. 

    Early symptoms such as fever, fatigue, muscle pain, headache, and sore throat, are non-specific, which complicates clinical diagnosis and can delay detection. 

    These symptoms then progress to gastrointestinal symptoms, organ dysfunction, and in some cases haemorrhagic manifestations. 

    CFRs in the past two BVD outbreaks, reported in Uganda and in the Democratic Republic of the Congo in 2007 and 2012 were 30% and 50%, respectively.

    Differentiating BVD from other endemic febrile illnesses such as malaria is challenging without laboratory confirmation using PCR or antigen/antibody-based assays. 

    Outbreak control relies on rapid case identification, isolation and care, contact tracing, safe burials, and strong community engagement, as no approved vaccines or specific treatments currently exist for BVD.

Public health response

    Health authorities in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda, in collaboration with WHO and partners, are implementing extensive public health measures including implementing the continental response plan, engaging donors and mobilizing additional resources to address critical funding gaps and sustain response operations across affected and at-risk areas.

    For further information about public health response actions by the respective Ministry of Health, WHO, and partners, please refer to the latest situation reports published by the WHO Regional Office for Africa Ebola Bundibugyo Virus Disease Outbreak Democratic Republic of the Congo | Uganda Weekly External Situation Report 5, Data as of 14 June 2026 | WHO | Regional Office for Africa 

WHO risk assessment

    On 6 June 2026, WHO reassessed the risk of the outbreak of BVD to incorporate newly available information and align with the WHO Temporary Recommendations. 

    The risk for countries sharing land borders with countries with documented Bundibugyo virus (BVDV) detection, currently the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda, has been separated out from the risk for other countries in the African Region.

    The risk in the Democratic Republic of the Congo remains assessed as very high due to ongoing transmission and the continued expansion of the outbreak into new health zones, increasing the potential for further national and regional spread.

    The risk in Uganda is still assessed as high due to confirmed cross-border spread through imported cases and ongoing epidemiological links along the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo–western Uganda corridor, historically affected by Ebola outbreaks, including Bundibugyo and Sudan virus disease outbreaks.

    The risk for countries with land borders adjoining countries with documented BDBV detection is assessed as high due to sustained population mobility linked to cross-border trade and mining activities, variation in capacities and experience of BVD response, and variable levels of readiness.

    The risk for the rest of the Africa region and at the global level is assessed as low.

    For further information, please see the WHO Rapid Risk Assessment – Ebola disease caused by Bundibugyo virus, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda and countries with land borders adjoining countries with documented BDBV detection v3.

WHO advice

    WHO advises against any restriction of travel to, or trade with, the Democratic Republic of the Congo or Uganda based on the currently available information. WHO continues to closely monitor and, where necessary, verify travel and trade measures in relation to this event.

    For further information on the considerations for implementing border health and international travel-related temporary recommendations, please see the relevant technical note issued on 26 May 2026.

    The Temporary Recommendations issued to State Parties on 22 May 2026 underscore the importance of coordinated outbreak control, enhanced cross‑border collaboration, and sustained surveillance and preparedness to prevent further regional spread and ensure an effective public health response.

    WHO has convened several technical advisory groups, including the Strategic Advisory Group of Experts on Immunization (SAGE) to assess candidate vaccines and therapeutics for BVD. Key recommendations made are available in the news release published on 28 May 2026.

(...)

Citable reference: World Health Organization (19 June 2026). Disease Outbreak News; Bundibugyo Virus Disease, Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda. Available at: https://www/who.int/emergencies/disease-outbreak/news/item/2026-DON608

[1] #Data source: Centre des opérations d'urgences de sante publique (COUSP-DRC) 

Source: 

Link: https://www.who.int/emergencies/disease-outbreak-news/item/2026-DON608

____

Potent In Vitro #Antiviral Activity of 4'-Fluorouridine Against Diverse #Orthohantaviruses including #Andes Virus

 

Highlights:

    • 4′-fluorouridine exhibits broad-spectrum activity against 16 orthohantaviruses.

    • The compound inhibits hantavirus replication by targeting the viral polymerase.

    • Efficacy is maintained in human endothelial and airway epithelial cells.

Abstract

Hantaviruses are emerging pathogens responsible for severe and often fatal diseases, including hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) and hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS), for which no FDA-approved antivirals currently exist. Using a Seoul virus minigenome system, we first confirmed that the ribonucleoside analog 4’-fluorouridine (EIDD-2749) effectively targets the hantavirus polymerase complex, inhibiting viral RNA transcription and replication. We subsequently evaluated its antiviral activity against a comprehensive panel of 16 hantaviruses representing both Old and New World lineages including both the Chilean and Argentinian strains of Andes virus. 4’-fluorouridine demonstrated potent, dose-dependent inhibition across all viruses tested, with EC50 values uniformly in the low- to sub-micromolar range. Collectively, these findings establish 4’-fluorouridine as a highly potent, pan-hantavirus inhibitor and a promising candidate for further preclinical development.

Source: 

Link: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0166354226001269?via%3Dihub

____

#Ebola #outbreak caused by #Bundibugyo virus: challenges and priorities for #epidemic preparedness and response

 

{Summary}

Since WHO declared the ongoing outbreak of Ebola virus disease caused by Bundibugyo virus (species Orthoebolavirus bundibugyoense; BDBV) in DR Congo and Uganda a public health emergency of international concern and the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) declared a public health emergency of continental security, the outbreak has continued to evolve rapidly. As of June 3, 2026, 344 laboratory-confirmed cases and 60 deaths had been reported in DR Congo, while Uganda had reported 15 confirmed cases and one death; cross-border transmission has prompted heightened preparedness and response measures across the region.1–3 The outbreak poses a substantial public health threat because diagnosis is often delayed by limited access to suitable point-of-care assays, and no licensed vaccine or approved virus-specific therapeutic currently exists for BDBV. Barriers to controlling the BDBV outbreak and priority response actions are summarised in the table.

(...)

Source: 

Link: https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(26)01141-4/abstract?rss=yes

____

Single-dose #mRNA #vaccines against #Andes #hantavirus

 

{Summary}

The May, 2026, Andes virus outbreak on the Dutch cruise ship (MV Hondius) that departed from Argentina, where the lethal virus was first described, represents a transmission context unprecedented in the known epidemiology of the virus. The Andes virus is the only member of the Hantaviridae family capable of efficient person-to-person spread through close contact with respiratory secretions. The epidemic potential of the virus was demonstrated during the 2018–19 Epuyén outbreak in Argentina, where four waves of infection from a social gathering resulted in 34 confirmed cases and 11 deaths. Despite passengers on board MV Hondius having now returned to their home countries, there are currently 13 reported cases with three deaths. The dispersal of nearly 150 passengers and high-risk contacts across 23 countries, monitored under varying quarantine protocols, and a 42-day virus incubation window, presents a complicated and critical vulnerability for public health agencies. Contact tracing is ongoing as ambiguity surrounds secondary transmission cases before containment measures were established. There are no vaccines or preventive treatments currently approved by the US Food and Drug Administration or the European Medicines Agency. The travel-related outbreak and potential for sequential transmission events underscore the urgency for vaccine development.

(...)

Source: 

Link: https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(26)01124-4/fulltext?rss=yes

____

Mechanistic and #antigenic boundaries of #Henipavirus and Parahenipavirus #glycoproteins

 

Abstract

Henipaviruses, in the Paramyxoviridae family, includes the highly virulent Nipah virus that causes reoccurring outbreaks of deadly disease. Recent discoveries of Henipavirus-like species, including the zoonotic Langya virus, have revealed much higher antigenic diversity than currently characterized and prompted the reorganization of these viruses into the Henipavirus and Parahenipavirus genera. Here, to explore the limits of structural and antigenic variation in both genera, collectively referred to as HNVs, we construct an expanded, diverse panel of HNV fusion and attachment glycoproteins from non-redundant HNV strains that better reflect global HNV diversity. We express and purify the fusion protein ectodomains and the attachment protein head domains and study their biochemical and biophysical properties. We perform immunization experiments in mice, eliciting antibodies reactive to multiple HNV fusion proteins. Cryo-electron microscopy structures elucidate molecular determinants of differential pre-fusion state stability and higher order contacts. A crystal structure of the Gamak virus attachment head domain reveals an additional domain appended to the conserved 6-bladed, β-propeller fold. Taken together, these studies expand the known structural and antigenic limits of the HNVs, reveal cross-reactive epitopes within both genera and provide foundational data for the development of broadly reactive countermeasures.

Source: 

Link: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-026-74212-8

____

The #risk of #global #Ebola virus #spread is low: #epidemiology of Ebola disease cases outside Africa, 1976 to May 2026

 

Abstract

Following the Bundibugyo virus disease outbreak reported in the Democratic Republic of the Congo in May 2026, we reviewed all known Ebola disease cases outside Africa and found that intercontinental transmission risk remains low. We identified 28 confirmed epidemic-linked cases outside Africa; only four involved travellers with latent infection whose symptoms were detected after border screening. Excluding medically evacuated cases, the crude overall risk since 2000 was 0.17 Ebola disease cases outside Africa per 1,000 reported cases in Africa.

Source: 

Link: https://www.eurosurveillance.org/content/10.2807/1560-7917.ES.2026.31.24.2600508?emailalert=true#abstract_content

____

#Andes virus #outbreak linked to expedition cruise #ship travel, multi-country #investigation and response, April to June 2026

Abstract

As at 18 June 2026, 13 cases (12 confirmed and one probable) of Andes orthohantavirus have been reported (case–fatality: 23%), linked to the Dutch-flagged expedition cruise ship MV Hondius. The event involved individuals from 23 nationalities and required medical evacuation, repatriation, coordinated international contact tracing, isolation, quarantine and clinical and laboratory testing follow-up. To date, all cases have been passengers (10/121; 8%) or crew members (3/61; 5%). Ongoing monitoring and investigations aim to clarify the source of the outbreak, identify risk factors and prevent further spread.

Source: 

Link: https://www.eurosurveillance.org/content/10.2807/1560-7917.ES.2026.31.24.2600477?emailalert=true#abstract_content

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#Biodiversity and emerging infectious #threats: the microbial dark matter of Southwest #China

 

Abstract

Southwest China is a global biodiversity hotspot, and its complex and diverse ecosystems harbor vast amounts of “microbial dark matter.” This paper systematically examines the distribution characteristics of microbial dark matter in hosts such as arthropods, mammals, and birds, as well as in environments including soil, hot springs, and high-altitude lakes, with a particular focus on the cross-species transmissibility and pathogenic potential of emerging pathogens. Research indicates that new microbial species in the Southwest exhibit significant geographic concentration and host specificity: Yunnan Province is a core hotspot, while the Tibet Autonomous Region contributes a wealth of microbial resources due to its extreme environments, with arthropods and mammals accounting for the highest proportion of novel species. Regarding public health risks, eight novel pathogens with evidence of human infection have been identified, spanning the three major groups of viruses, bacteria, and parasites. The cross-species transmission potential of some pathogens (such as DPRV rhabdovirus, PPV arenaviridae, Luxi hantavirus, Banna virus and a novel Babesia species) has been confirmed through serological surveys or molecular testing. Deepening the exploration of microbial dark matter and risk early warning in this region will provide critical scientific support for public health safety monitoring.

Source: 

Link: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/microbiology/articles/10.3389/fmicb.2026.1846062/full

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#Surveillance of West Nile Virus {#WNV} #Human #Infections in #Europe, Weekly Report (ECDC, Jun. 18 '26): First two cases reported in #Italy

 

Epidemiological summary

    Since the beginning of 2026, and as of 17 June, 2 countries in Europe reported 3 human cases of West Nile virus infection: Italy and North Macedonia.

    The current report in Table 1 includes the number of probable and confirmed cases of WNV infections per NUTS region. 

    However, these figures are preliminary and should be interpreted with caution as they may be revised by the countries as more information becomes available. 

    Consequently, no totals are provided. 

    For further details on case numbers, please refer to the joint monthly report, which offers a more detailed analysis.

    Please note: The table and map in this report contain countries and areas where human West Nile virus infection cases were reported to EpiPulse Cases.

Introduction

    The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) provides a weekly overview of human cases of West Nile virus (WNV) infection to support the competent authorities responsible for blood safety. 

    This overview can aid decisions on the deferral or testing of blood donors who may have been exposed to the virus, in accordance with Commission Directives 2004/33/EC and 2014/110/EU.

    West Nile virus infection in humans is a notifiable disease at the EU level and cases are reported in accordance with the EU case definition. 

    The table and map in this report show the countries and areas where human cases of WNV infection have been reported to the European surveillance portal for infectious diseases (EpiPulse Cases).

    More information on the occurrence of WNV infection among humans in Europe, as well as WNV outbreaks among equids and birds, is available in the joint monthly report produced by ECDC and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).

    Here we present the weekly report as of 17 June 2026.

Overview of West Nile virus cases in EU/EEA and EU-neighbouring countries

Table 1. Countries and regions with locally acquired human cases of West Nile virus infections in 2026 as of 17 June.

[Country

    ° Affected Region

        § Newly Affected Region

           * No. of Probable / Confirmed / Total Cases]

Italy

    ° Caserta

        § Yes

            * 0 / 1 / 1

    ° Firenze

        § Yes

            * 0 / 1 / 1

Macedonia

    ° Vardarski

        § No

            * 0 / 1 / 1

(...)

Source: 

 Link: https://wnv-weekly.ecdc.europa.eu/

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#Nipah Virus Shedding in #Urine from Fruit #Bats, #SriLanka, 2018–2019

 

Abstract

Nipah virus causes outbreaks in humans with high case-fatality rates. In this study, we confirmed the presence of Nipah virus in Sri Lanka in Pteropus medius fruit bats, one of the known natural reservoir species. Sequences we generated were genetically related to Nipah virus strains from outbreaks in southern India.

Source: 

Link: https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/eid/article/32/7/25-1567_article

____

#Virus-host #interactions on #volcanic #ash from Mount #Etna

 

Abstract

Volcanic ash represents an extreme and dynamic habitat, yet it hosts diverse microbial communities with largely unexplored viral diversity. This study investigated bacterial and viral populations in volcanic ash from Mount Etna (Italy) collected during the eruption, focusing on microbial novelty, activity, and virus-host interactions. Taxonomic profiling revealed that Pseudomonas and Telluria were the dominant bacterial genera, both frequently detected in airborne environments. In contrast, enrichment cultures with volcanic ash were dominated by spore-forming members of the phylum Bacillota, highlighting their resilience under harsh conditions. Metagenomic analysis recovered 19 high-quality metagenome-assembled genomes, including four previously undescribed bacterial species. Replication rate estimates showed that certain taxa were metabolically active, particularly at one sampling site. The presence of Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR) systems with spacers matching viral sequences suggested viral predation pressure on volcanic ash. A total of 1139 viral operational taxonomic units (vOTUs) were identified, of only around half (660 vOTUs) showed similarities to known phages, underscoring the presence of novel viruses. Shared vOTUs across sites revealed the presence of both a core virome and site-specific viral populations. Virus-host predictions indicated frequent interactions with hosts from multiple Gammaproteobacterial genera. Additionally, a 336 kb jumbo phage genome exhibited extensive metabolic capabilities and genetic autonomy. Experimental work identified a unique lytic Bacillus-infecting phage (″Phoenix″) with limited propagation capacity. Furthermore, prophage induction experiments revealed active, morphologically diverse temperate phages across multiple bacterial host strains. Overall, these findings highlight volcanic ash as a reservoir of microbial and viral diversity, shaped by environmental extremes and dynamic ecological interactions.

Competing Interest Statement

The authors have declared no competing interest.

Funder Information Declared

Swedish Research Council, https://ror.org/03zttf063, 2023-03310_VR, 2022-06725

Source: 

Link: https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.64898/2026.06.17.732739v1?rss=1

____

Lower limit of #detection of commercial respiratory virus RT – #PCR panels for #bovine #influenza #H5N1

 

Abstract

Objectives

The adaptation of clade 2.3.4.4b influenza A(H5N1) to dozens of mammalian species, including dairy cattle, raises concerns about potential spillover into humans. If the virus develops human-to-human transmissibility, sensitive diagnostics will be critical to containment efforts. We sought to determine the lower limit of detection of commercial influenza A tests for the circulating bovine-adapted strain of H5N1.

Methods

We determined the 95% lower limit of detection (LLOD) of 4 commercial respiratory virus panels for detecting inactivated bovine H5N1 (A/bovine/Ohio/B24OSU-439/2024). Two of the tested panels provide seasonal influenza A subtyping, the BioFire Respiratory Panel 2.1 (BioFire Diagnostics/BioMérieux) and the cobas eplex respiratory pathogen panel 2 (Roche Diagnostics), while 2 panels provide pan–influenza A detection, the Xpert Xpress CoV-2/Flu/RSV plus (Cepheid), and the Panther Fusion SARS-CoV-2/Flu A/B/RSV Assay (Hologic, Inc). Serial dilutions of H5 RNA (400-25 copies/mL) were prepared in respiratory virus–negative nasopharyngeal swab matrix, and 20 replicates were tested at each concentration. The 95% LLOD for each test was calculated using probit regression.

Results

All 4 tests detected H5 with 95% LLODs below 1000 H5 RNA copies/mL. Xpert demonstrated the highest analytical sensitivity (50 copies/mL; 95% CI, 39-160), followed by BioFire (297 copies/mL; 95% CI, 196-3955), Panther Fusion (531 copies/mL; 95% CI, 421-792), and eplex (883 copies/mL; 95% CI, 588-2741).

Conclusions

Existing commercial respiratory virus panels can effectively detect bovine H5N1. These platforms could support screening in the event of an H5N1 outbreak, followed by confirmation with specific H5 subtyping, as needed.

Source: 

Link: https://academic.oup.com/ajcp/article-abstract/165/6/aqag067/8709618?redirectedFrom=fulltext

____

Mass #mortality of southern elephant #seals during multi-species #outbreak of HPAI #H5N1 on sub - #Antarctic Heard Island

 

Abstract

High pathogenicity avian influenza (HPAI) has spread across the sub-Antarctic, causing significant wildlife impacts. We report its first detection in an Australian external territory, Heard Island and McDonald Islands, which supports over one million breeding seabirds and seals. Drone and ground surveys (October 2025, January 2026), combined with viral genome analysis, confirmed infection with Influenza A H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b at Heard Island. Drone surveys revealed mass mortality in southern elephant seals, with 8,573 pups (62%) recorded dead across Heard Island by the final surveys. Mortality increased at an average rate of 5.6% per day in a subset of harems, and the highest observed mortality in a harem was 97%. Based on the average (76%) mortality in the final surveys, total estimated pup mortality at Heard Island was 13,359 (from a total population of 17,364 pups), though this may be an underestimate as mortality was ongoing at this time. HPAI was detected in six of nine species tested and, we suspect, led to elevated mortality in king and gentoo penguins. Phylogenetic analysis indicates the virus was introduced from Crozet Islands, with an estimated arrival around August 2025. These data show the continued easterly spread of HPAI around the sub-Antarctic, with severe but heterogeneous impacts across taxa. Our results demonstrate the value of drones for large scale monitoring, underscoring the need for continued and enhanced HPAI surveillance across the Southern Ocean.

Competing Interest Statement

The authors have declared no competing interest.

Source: 

Link: https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.64898/2026.06.16.732752v1

____

The Winners Take It All? #Global Evolutionary #Success of #H5Nx #Reassortants in the 2020–2024 #Panzootic

 

Abstract

Avian influenza viruses undergo frequent genetic reassortment, which can coincide with phenotypic changes in transmission, pathogenicity, and host species niche. Since 2020, clade 2.3.4.4b H5 high pathogenicity avian influenza viruses (HPAIVs) have driven a global panzootic, causing mass mortality in wild birds, poultry, and, for the first time, repeated spillover infections in a variety of mammalian species. This worldwide resurgence of H5 HPAIV has coincided with a dramatic increase in the number of circulating reassortant strains; however, the scale, impact and drivers of these reassortants remain unclear. Here, we combined statistical and phylodynamic modelling to reconstruct the global evolutionary dynamics of H5Nx viruses across four epizootic seasons (2020-2024). We identified 209 genetically distinct reassortants, stratified into three transmission categories based on their phylogenetic and epidemiological profiles. Accounting for sampling depth and HPAIV incidence, we estimated that reassortants emerged most frequently from Asia, but `major' reassortants associated with increased host range, inter-seasonal persistence, and long-range dissemination, more frequently emerged from Europe. Altogether, reassortant emergence followed an episodic pattern in which most reassortants were transient, but 2% seeded large clusters of secondary reassortants soon after their own emergence. Statistical modelling revealed that reassortant success was strongly shaped by ecological factors, including sustained circulation in specific wild bird orders and detection across a wider range of host niches. Collectively, our findings uncover global reassortment dynamics in H5 HPAIVs and identify key virological and ecological drivers underpinning the emergence and spread of successful reassortants. These insights support the importance of enhanced surveillance to track evolution of H5 HPAIV and identify traits relevant for consideration in pandemic risk assessment.

Competing Interest Statement

The authors have declared no competing interest.

Funder Information Declared

Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council, BB/V011286/1, BB/X006204/1, BB/X006166/1, BB/Y007271/1, BB/Y007298/1

Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council - Institute Strategic Grants, BBS/E/RL/230002C, BBS/E/RL/230002D

Medical Research Council, MR/Y015045/1, MR/Y03368X/1

National Natural Science Foundation of China, https://ror.org/01h0zpd94, 32061123001, 32425053, 32200416

National Key Research and Development Program of China, 2023YFC2307500, 2024YFE0106000

European Union, 727922, 874850, 101094685, 101084171, 874735

Fonds National de la Recherche Scientifique, F.4515.22

Fonds voor Wetenschappelijk Onderzoek — Vlaanderen, G098321N

Source: 

Link: https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.1101/2025.07.19.665680v2

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#WHO issues comprehensive #guidelines on #filovirus disease, including #Ebola and #Marburg disease (June 17 '26)

 

    As the Democratic Republic of the Congo is battling an Ebola disease outbreak caused by the Bundibugyo virus, the World Health Organization (WHO) has released its first comprehensive guidelines for the clinical management of filovirus disease which include all types of Ebola and Marburg viruses. 

    The new guidelines highlight the importance of early supportive care to improve patient survival and health outcomes, outlining 16 evidence-based recommendations.

    Ebola and Marburg diseases are serious and often fatal, with case fatality rates ranging from 25% to 90% in the most severe outbreaks. 

    There have been 72 outbreaks of Ebola and Marburg diseases reported in Africa since 1967, when Marburg virus was first discovered. 

    These outbreaks often have significant socio-economic and psychological impact on communities affected. 

    In the absence of licensed vaccines and treatments for Marburg virus disease, Bundibugyo and Sudan virus diseases, early supportive care significantly improves survival.

    “These new guidelines are a perfect example of how WHO leverages science to better protect and care for people during outbreaks and health emergencies,” WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus says. 

    “The current Bundibugyo virus outbreak is a stark reminder of the need for diligent, holistic and person-focused medical care, to save lives and preserve human dignity. We encourage governments and authorities to integrate these new recommendations into preparedness and outbreak response, to ensure high-quality care for everyone.”

    Developed through global expert consultations and based on the most up-to-date scientific evidence and clinical knowledge, the guidelines translate lessons learned from recent Ebola and Marburg disease outbreaks into practical recommendations for improved patient care. 

    WHO has previously issued several guidelines on clinical care and therapeutics specific to Ebola virus disease.

    The new guidelines have been developed primarily to guide health workers when caring for patients, to harmonize clinical approaches, and enable health facility administrators and policy makers to better plan, prepare for and respond to filovirus disease outbreaks through adequate provision of medical supplies, biomedical equipment, laboratory support, and human resources.

    The practical recommendations aim to support frontline health workers in identifying clinical deterioration, managing dehydration and shock, improving patient monitoring, delivering critical supportive interventions safely, and providing structured follow-up for patients who recovered from Ebola and Marburg diseases. 

    Some of the key recommendations include:

        ° Using prioritized clinical laboratory tests to monitor patients with filovirus disease, to identify and manage treatable problems (such as hypoglycaemia, metabolic disruptions);

        ° Quickly and accurately treating dehydration in patients with filovirus disease using oral and intravenous rehydration;

        ° Promoting early and precise use of intravenous fluids and vasoactive medications to treat shock in patients with filovirus disease (low blood pressure caused by the infection, which if not properly addressed leads to organ failure), guided by serial monitoring of vital signs and markers of perfusion;

        ° Ensuring that if other bacterial infections, including bacterial sepsis, are present in patients with filovirus disease, appropriate treatment with antibiotics is initiated;

        ° Providing structured after-care to patients who have survived filovirus disease to promote well-being, and to prevent further infections linked to viral persistence in people who recovered from the disease.

    For Bundibugyo virus disease, as with other filovirus diseases, early recognition, rapid referral and optimized supportive care remain fundamental components of patient care. 

    Optimized supportive care can reduce complications and provide the foundation on which all other clinical interventions are delivered. 

    It is also a pre-requisite for clinical research evaluating antiviral treatments. These clinical guidelines complement existing WHO guidance and operational tools designed to support safe and effective care delivery.

About WHO

    Dedicated to the well-being of all people and guided by science, the World Health Organization leads and champions global efforts to give everyone, everywhere an equal chance at a safe and healthy life.

    We are the UN agency for health that connects nations, partners and people on the front lines in 150+ locations – leading the world’s response to health emergencies, preventing disease, addressing the root causes of health issues and expanding access to medicines and health care. Our mission is to promote health, keep the world safe and serve the vulnerable.

    “Together for health. Stand with science”, the theme of World Health Day 2026 marks a year-long campaign to highlight science as the foundation for protecting health and well-being worldwide.

Source: 

Link: https://www.who.int/news/item/17-06-2026-who-issues-comprehensive-guidelines-on-filovirus-disease--including-ebola-and-marburg-disease

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Yellow Fever - Global Rapid #Risk #Assessment (WHO, June 17 '26, summary)

 

{Summary}

Overall Risk Statement 

    This rapid risk assessment (RRA) aims to assess the overall public health risk at the global level associated with the increase in yellow fever (YF) transmission in the Region of the Americas alongside ongoing YF activity reported in the WHO African Region, documented from the fourth quarter of 2025 through 2026 to date.  

    Together these events involve 13 out of the 40 countries with areas at high risk for YF transmission globally (currently 27 in Africa and 13 in the Americas under the Global Strategy to Eliminate Yellow Fever Epidemics (EYE) classification). 

    For this risk assessment, the WHO Secretariat considered the public health impact of YF, the risk of geographical spread to other WHO regions, and the risk associated with insufficient control capacities. 

    This RRA also provides an assessment of the overall risk in regions with a history of YF transmission, and other regions where the primary vector for urban YF transmission (Aedes aegypti) is present. 

    The overall public health risk also incorporates differences in vaccination status and the availability of epidemiological evidence of YF or arboviral circulation. 

    Unvaccinated populations in at-risk areas constitute the highest risk group; vaccinated populations in the same areas are considered low risk; and populations in areas with no available evidence of YF or indicative arboviral circulation are classified as low risk, albeit with low confidence due to limited surveillance data. 

    The assessment further integrates seasonal ecological dynamics, recognizing that although YF virus transmission can occur year-round in certain ecological zones, marked intra-annual variability exists. 

    In addition, the RRA assesses the risk to countries who do not have competent vectors, as well as the risk to travellers, considering their YF vaccination status. 

    YF outbreaks must be interpreted within their epidemiological and geographic context, as the dynamics of transmission, population immunity, and public health implications differ markedly between high risk and non- risk areas for YF transmission. 

    In high-risk areas, where the virus circulates continuously and population immunity varies, outbreaks may reflect seasonal patterns, gaps in routine immunization, or fluctuations in vector populations. 

    In contrast, outbreaks occurring in areas with no evidence available for YF—where population immunity is typically low and YF virus is not expected to circulate—raise additional concerns regarding viral introduction, the potential for rapid urban transmission, and the need for immediate vaccination and vector control measures, especially in urban settings, to prevent wider spread. 

    Understanding these contextual differences is essential for interpreting the epidemiology, identifying risk factors for severe disease, and determining the relevance and effectiveness of prevention and control strategies. 

(...)

Source: 

Link: https://www.who.int/publications/m/item/who-rapid-risk-assessment--yellow-fever--global-v.1

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#Andes #hantavirus #outbreak in cruise ship (ECDC, June 17 '26): Some quarantined individuals have left isolation after completing follow-up

 

    On 2 May 2026, ECDC was notified of a cluster of severe respiratory illness on MV Hondius, a Dutch-flagged cruise ship with passengers and crew from 23 countries, including nine EU/EEA countries. 

    The virus has been identified as Andes hantavirus.

    As of 17 June 2026, 13 cases have been reported in total, including 12 confirmed and one probable case.

    As of 17 June 2026, some of the identified contacts associated with the outbreak have completed their quarantine period, while others are expected to do so in the coming days. 

    Public health authorities continue to monitor the identified contacts however, based on the information currently available, the likelihood of additional cases related to this event is considered very low. 

    The risk to the general population in the EU/EEA remains very low.

    ° Confirmed cases: 12

    ° Probable cases: 1

    ° Suspected cases: 0

    ° Number of deaths: 3

(...)

Source: 

Link: https://www.ecdc.europa.eu/en/infectious-disease-topics/hantavirus-infection/surveillance-and-updates/andes-hantavirus-outbreak

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