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

____

#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

____

#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/

____

#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

____

#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

____

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

____

#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

____

#Finland - #Influenza A viruses of high pathogenicity (Inf. with) (non-poultry including wild birds) (2017-) - Immediate notification

 

A wild Barnacle Goose in Itä-Suomen aluehallintovirasto Region.

Source: 

Link: https://wahis.woah.org/#/in-review/7633

____

#WHO DG's remarks at High-Level Virtual #Meeting of African Heads of State and Government and Partners on #Bundibugyo #Ebola #outbreak – 16 June 2026

 

Your Excellencies President Ndayishimiye,

President Ramaphosa,

Vice President Alupo,

Prime Minister Suminwa Tuluka,

Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf,

Dr Jean Kaseya,

Excellencies, honourable Ministers, dear colleagues and friends,

    I thank the Africa CDC for hosting this event, and for its partnership in the Ebola response through the joint, African-led incident management support team.

    Thank you also to all those who have made concrete commitments today to support the Joint Continental Preparedness and Response Plan, especially the Government of DRC and Uganda.

    Two weeks ago I traveled to DRC, and I visited the epicentre of the outbreak in the province of Ituri.

    I saw resilience, I saw commitment and I saw hope.

    Treatment capacity is expanding, and we are seeing recoveries.

    But I also saw first-hand the challenges that the communities and our teams face.

    Testing and laboratory capacity are still not at the level we need to interrupt transmission.

    Insecurity, displacement and population movement complicate these efforts – as does significant mistrust in local communities, which I observed while I was in Bunia.

    And blanket travel restrictions are disrupting supply chains and hindering response operations, without addressing the source of transmission.

    As you may know, this month marks 50 years since the first documented Ebola outbreaks in Sudan and DRC, in 1976 – although the first documented outbreak of Bundibugyo virus was only 19 years ago, in 2007.

    In that time, there have only ever been four cases of Ebola documented in travelers from Africa, excluding medical evacuations.

    Blanket travel restrictions are an unnecessary overreaction that do more harm than good.

    WHO recommends targeted public health measures, including exit screening at points of departure, which are much more effective.

    As you know, we are fighting this outbreak without vaccines or therapeutics.

    Clinical trials of promising medicines for treatment and prevention will start in the coming weeks. Vaccine trials will take longer.

    We are also working to ensure access for the affected communities to medicines and vaccines should they be successful in trials.

    Of course, medical countermeasures would be very useful.

    But under the leadership of the government, we can defeat this outbreak without them, just as we have defeated 16 previous Ebola outbreaks in DRC.

    The bigger question is what we will do to prevent the 18th Ebola outbreak, and the 19th.

    That must include working with communities to address the root causes of Ebola outbreaks by improving food safety and preventing spillover, as part of a One Health approach.

    At the same time, we must remember that for the people of Ituri, Ebola is just one threat among many.

    During my visit, one health worker came up to me and asked why we came for Ebola, but not for the many other health threats they face.

    He has a point.

    Community mistrust is a major barrier in this outbreak because these communities feel – perhaps rightly – that the outside world only wants to protect itself from Ebola and doesn’t truly care about them.

    We have a duty to end this outbreak. But our duty does not end there.

    Even as we respond to this outbreak, we must ensure that we are strengthening the essential health services and systems that people rely on for their many other health needs.

    That’s the best way to build trust, and to keep it.

    If we protect these communities from Ebola, but not from malaria or unsafe childbirth, or measles or malnutrition, or from a conflict that is not of their making, we have not really helped.

    Excellencies, as we conclude today’s meeting, I have heard seven main priorities:

    First, the response must be African-led, with the affected countries in the driver’s seat, supported by partners based on the principle of one plan, one budget, one team.

    Second, today’s Summit has endorsed the continued collaboration between WHO and Africa CDC, under the joint Incident Management Support Team and the Joint Continental Preparedness and Response Plan.

    Third, even while we invest in fighting Ebola, we must invest in strengthening essential health systems and services, and in addressing the wider humanitarian emergency.

    Fourth, we continue to call for countries that have imposed blanket travel restrictions to lift them – as I said earlier, because this is overreaction.

    Fifth, we must continue building national and regional capacity to produce vaccines, therapeutics and other medical products.

    Sixth, we ask the armed groups to agree to a ceasefire until the outbreak is over.

    This Summit has called for the urgent establishment of humanitarian access corridors to ensure safe access for authorities and partners to North Kivu, South Kivu and other high-risk areas.

    And seventh, even as we work to stop this outbreak, we must start work now to prevent the next one, by addressing the root causes.

    This Summit has emphasized the need to move from emergency appeals to sustainable preparedness financing, anchored in domestic governments and the African private sector, and complemented by external partners.

    None of this is the responsibility of DRC alone. We are all in this together.

    In particular, strong cross-border cooperation between affected countries and their neighbours is especially important.

    The keys to ending this outbreak are government leadership, community ownership, and strong partnership between WHO, Africa CDC and the many other actors on the ground.

    Thank you all once again for your support. Together, we can stop this.

    And to Your Excellency President Ndayishimiye and President Ramaphosa, we really appreciate your leadership. 

Source: 

Link: https://www.who.int/news-room/speeches/item/who-director-general-s-remarks-at-the-high-level-virtual-meeting-of-african-heads-of-state-and-government-and-partners-on-the-ebola-bundibugyo-virus-disease-outbreak---16-june-2026

____

#Overview of available modelling #evidence to inform the scale and potential spread of #Bundibugyo virus in the current #Ebola disease #outbreak (ECDC, June 17 '26, summary)

 

ASSESSMENT | 17 June 2026

Key findings 

    • So far in the current outbreak of Ebola disease caused by Bundibugyo virus, international modelling efforts have focused on estimating the outbreak size and near-term trajectories, as well as the risk of regional and international spread.  

    • Multiple modelling groups suggest that the true size of the outbreak is larger than reported. 

        - One model estimated that cumulative infections as of 13 June were between 3.0 and 10.2 times the reported number of cases (90% credible interval). 

    • Epistorm estimated the relative risk of importation to be highest for Rwanda, Tanzania and Kenya, which together account for approximately 54% of the relative risk. 

        - ECDC has estimated the risk of importation into the EU/EEA to be low. 

    • The United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention published scenario modelling analysis results that estimated a 65% probability that the outbreak will exceed 20 000 cases within three months under a scenario where 20% of individuals with Bundibugyo virus infection were isolated and no other interventions were implemented. 

    • Current modelling estimates are highly uncertain due to data limitations. 

        - Multiple epidemic trajectories remain compatible with the available surveillance data, limiting confidence in estimates of outbreak size and future trends. 

(...)

Suggested citation: European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control. Overview of available modelling evidence to inform the scale and potential spread of Bundibugyo virus in the current Ebola disease outbreak. ECDC: Stockholm; 2026.   ISBN 978-92-9498-899-7; doi: 10.2900/3614787; Catalogue number TQ-01-26-044-EN-N 

© European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, Stockholm, 2026

(...)

Source: 

Link: https://www.ecdc.europa.eu/en/publications-data/overview-available-modelling-evidence-inform-scale-and-potential-spread

____

Avian #Influenza #Report: June 7 - 13 '26 (Wk 24) (HK CHP, June 16 '26)

 

(...)

Avian influenza A(H9N2): 

    ° The case involved a 2-year-old boy with onset on June 9, 2026. 

    ° The patient was admitted for treatment on June 10, 2026 and is currently in stable condition. 

    ° Epidemiological investigations revealed the case likely had indirect exposure to contaminated environment at a fresh provision shop selling live poultry in a wet market. 

    ° One sample collected from a metal tray placed at the bottom of a live chicken cage inside the shop for collecting chicken droppings tested positive for the H9 avian influenza virus. 

    ° The remaining 16 environmental samples tested negative. 

    ° Whole genome sequencing and analysis of the patient’s clinical specimens confirmed that all of the virus genes were avian in origin and no significant genetic variations were detected. 

    ° All identified contacts remained asymptomatic.

(...)

Source: 

Link: https://www.chp.gov.hk/files/pdf/2026_avian_influenza_report_vol22_wk24.pdf

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#Pathogens #analysis and modeling of #mortality #risk in #sepsis patients with #COVID19 and without COVID-19

 

Abstract

This study compared isolate-level pathogen profiles, antimicrobial susceptibility, clinical characteristics, and mortality predictors between sepsis patients with and without coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), and developed cohort-specific nomograms for in-hospital mortality. This retrospective intensive care unit (ICU) cohort included 608 adults with sepsis: 158 in group COVID-19 and 450 in group non–COVID-19. All patients were assessed for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) detection status. Patient-level comparisons and mortality modeling used the full cohort, whereas microbiological analyses were restricted to 235 eligible bacterial or fungal isolates from baseline cultures after exclusion of colonizers, contaminants, clinically non-causative organisms, and duplicates. Candidate predictors were selected by least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression and entered into multivariable logistic regression; coefficients were pooled using Rubin’s rules when multiple imputation was performed. External validation used MIMIC-IV with fixed internal coefficients. Gram-negative organisms predominated, mainly Acinetobacter baumannii and Klebsiella pneumoniae, with substantial antimicrobial resistance. The COVID-19 and non–COVID-19 models showed apparent internal area under the curve values of 0.938 and 0.871, conservative optimism-corrected values of 0.913 and 0.871, and external validation AUC values of 0.841 and 0.859, respectively. Cohort-specific nomograms may provide supplementary risk-stratification information in critically ill patients with sepsis.

Source: 

Link: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-026-58450-w

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#Antibodies to #influenza A virus #hemagglutinin and #neuraminidase limit egress and alter the physical properties of released virus particles

 

Abstract

Influenza A virus (IAV)-specific antibodies neutralize mature virions by inhibiting functional sites or, in some cases, by promoting virion aggregation. Many antibodies also act on infected cells to reduce virion yields, but the underlying mechanisms and effects on the physical properties and function of released virus particles remain incompletely characterized. Here we use flow virometry to acquire high-sensitivity yield and size measurements of virus particles released in the presence of antibodies. Combined with digital-droplet PCR and electron microscopy, this approach enables comprehensive characterization of antibody-induced changes in particle genome-content and morphology. We show that antibodies rapidly and dynamically alter released particle distributions, reducing yields and inducing the production of larger particles. Both effects result in part from aggregation induced by crosslinking of viral antigen on the infected-cell surface and inhibition of viral NA. However, yield reduction is not fully explained by aggregation, and a subset of induced larger particles are elongated virions. Finally, particles formed in the presence of HA stem-binding antibody, which does not inhibit attachment of mature virions, show reduced attachment in subsequent rounds of infection. Altogether, we uncover an unappreciated mechanism by which antibodies interfere with viral infection that occurs only during budding and release. Our work highlights the necessity of studying how the immune response shapes virus populations in the context of active infection processes.

Competing Interest Statement

T.I. is involved on a patent related to the flow virometry methodology: PCT/US2022/042125, status pending. The authors declare no other competing interests.

Funder Information Declared

Intramural Research Program of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), ZIAAI001385

G. Harold & Leila Y. Mathers Foundation, https://ror.org/02a7hjv13

Source: 

Link: https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.64898/2026.06.15.729605v1

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#HK CHP continues to actively follow up on a #human case of #H9N2 virus infection and reminds public of possibility of "twin-peaks" for seasonal #influenza and #COVID19 during summer

 

    The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health (DH) today (June 15) continued to actively follow up on a case of human infection with influenza A (H9) in collaboration with the relevant government departments. 

    Following whole genome sequencing and analysis of the patient's clinical specimens, the virus strain was confirmed to be a low-pathogenic avian influenza A (H9N2) virus. 

    All of the virus genes were avian in origin and no significant genetic variations were detected. 

    The patient is currently in stable condition and all six of his household contacts have remained asymptomatic. 

    As the H9N2 avian influenza virus has long been present in local poultry with low mortality rate for birds, and that the H9N2 avian influenza virus involved in this case has not shown evidence of human-to-human transmission or significant genetic variation, the CHP currently assessed the risk of a local avian influenza pandemic as low. 

    Nevertheless, the CHP once again strongly urged the public to maintain good personal and environmental hygiene at all times, avoid contact with live poultry, birds or their droppings, thoroughly cook poultry meat and eggs before consumption, and wash hands thoroughly after visiting places where live poultry is sold, so as to reduce the risk of avian influenza infection.

    In addition, with the recent rise in the activity of seasonal influenza and COVID-19, the CHP does not rule out the possibility that the activity of these two respiratory diseases will continue to rise in the coming months, leading to a "twin-peaks" phenomenon. Members of the public, particularly high-risk individuals, are advised to receive vaccination in a timely manner to reduce the risk of severe disease and death.

 

Human infection with influenza A (H9) virus

    In relation to the recent influenza A (H9) infection in a two-year-old boy, the Public Health Laboratory Services Branch of the CHP conducted whole genome sequencing and analysis of the virus, confirming that the virus strain is a low-pathogenic H9N2 avian influenza virus and that no significant genetic variations were detected. 

    The CHP has collected 17 environmental samples from the residence of the patient, the fresh provision shop at Wo Che Market he had visited, as well as a park in Fung Wo Estate. 

    One sample collected from a metal tray placed at the bottom of a live chicken cage inside the shop that was used to collect chicken droppings was tested positive for the H9 avian influenza virus. 

    The remaining 16 samples tested negative. 

    The CHP will conduct further analysis on the positive environmental sample. 

    The CHP believed that it is more likely for the boy to have contracted H9 avian influenza by touching a contaminated surface at the fresh food shop selling live poultry in Wo Che Market. Thorough disinfection and cleaning will be conducted at the fresh food shop in question.  

     The patient remains hospitalised in stable condition. His symptoms remain mild. Neither his family members nor the staff at the fresh provision shop concerned have developed any symptoms. The CHP has provided them with preventive medication and will continue to put them under medical surveillance.

     Based on the above epidemiological and virological evidence, the CHP assessed that the recent local case of infection has not changed the current risk level. The risk of an influenza pandemic due to local avian influenza remains low. The Government's response level under the "Preparedness Plan for Influenza Pandemic" remains at "Alert" level.

    Avian influenza viruses are generally classified as highly pathogenic or low pathogenic, and they mainly affect birds and poultry. Birds are also natural hosts for avian influenza viruses. 

    In occasional circumstances, cross-species transmission may occur when human come into close contact with infected poultry or contaminated environments. 

    However, there is currently no scientific evidence to suggest that the existing avian influenza viruses are capable of sustained and efficient human-to-human transmission. 

    No novel influenza virus arising from genetic reassortment between human seasonal influenza viruses and animal influenza viruses has been found either.

    Since 1999, a total of 11 cases of human influenza A (H9N2) have been recorded in Hong Kong, including five local cases and six imported cases. No fatal case has been recorded so far.

     According to data published by the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 160 cases of human infection with influenza A (H9) have been recorded globally in the past decade. The vast majority of patients presented with mild symptoms. As poultry is a natural host of the virus in many regions, sporadic human infections caused by contact with infected poultry or contaminated environments are expected to continue occurring worldwide.

     The CHP will continue to strengthen public education and publicity efforts to reduce the risk of avian influenza infection among the general public. A letter has been issued to all doctors in Hong Kong to update them on the latest situation regarding influenza A (H9), urging them to heighten vigilance and report any suspected cases.

 

Seasonal influenza and COVID-19

     Influenza activity in Hong Kong has increased in recent weeks but remains below the baseline level. 

    Based on past experience, Hong Kong may experience two influenza seasons each year. The onset of summer influenza season began at a later time than usual last year, and sustained a longer period, extending from early September last year to early January this year, resulting in the absence of the winter influenza season that traditionally occurs in the first quarter of each year. Since the summer influenza season typically occurs between July and August, it cannot be ruled out that it may begin earlier than usual this year.

     Regarding COVID-19, while overall local activity remains at a relatively low level, a slight increase has been recorded continually since early May. 

    The COVID-19 activity levels fluctuate, with an upsurge period seen approximately every six to nine months in recent years. Each upsurge is associated with changes in predominant circulating variants and a decline in community herd immunity. It has been nearly a year since the end of the last periodic upsurge of COVID-19 activity in Hong Kong, and it cannot be ruled out that the overall COVID-19 activity will rise further in the coming one to two months.

 

Government's vaccination programmes

     Vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent seasonal influenza, COVID-19 and its complications. It also reduces the risk of hospitalisation and death.

       The WHO has earlier announced its recommendations for the composition for seasonal influenza and COVID-19 vaccines in the upcoming season. Vaccine manufacturers are currently producing vaccines in accordance with the recommendations. A new batch of seasonal influenza vaccines will arrive in Hong Kong in this September, while COVID-19 vaccines will arrive in the fourth quarter.

     The COVID-19 vaccine provided under the Government's COVID-19 Vaccination Programme (the Programme) for children and adults will expire in mid-July and early September this year respectively. As the production and delivery of COVID-19 vaccines to Hong Kong with the new composition take time, eligible persons will not be able to receive free COVID-19 vaccines through the Programme for a short period during the transition period before a new batch of vaccines arrive in Hong Kong. Therefore, those in need are advised to make appointments as early as possible. Existing vaccination services will continue until the following dates:

         ° Individuals aged six months to 11 years: COVID-19 vaccination services will be available until July 10, 2026.

        ° Individuals aged 12 or above: COVID-19 vaccination services will be available until September 5, 2026.

     In addition, the shelf life of vaccines under the Government's Seasonal Influenza Vaccination (SIV) Programmes will expire at the end of July. The DH launched the 2025/26 SIV Programmes in September last year. With the government's active promotion and the cooperation of various stakeholders, over 2.03 million doses of vaccines have been administered. Members of the public who have not received vaccinations, particularly children, the elderly and chronic disease patients, should receive influenza vaccination as soon as possible.

     To prevent respiratory diseases, members of the public should maintain good personal, hand and environmental hygiene at all times. Members of the public with respiratory symptoms, even if the symptoms are mild, should wear a surgical mask, avoid crowded places and seek medical advice promptly. They should maintain hand hygiene before putting on and after removing a mask. When there is a rise in activity levels of respiratory diseases, high-risk persons should wear surgical masks when visiting public places. The general public should also wear a surgical mask when taking public transport or staying in crowded places.

     The public may visit the CHP's webpages for more information: Avian Influenza Webpage, Avian Influenza Report, COVID-19 Vaccination Programme, Seasonal Influenza Vaccination Programmes, Facebook page and Youtube channel. 

 

Ends/Monday, June 15, 2026 | Issued at HKT 22:10 | NNNN

Source: 

Link: https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202606/15/P2026061500852.htm?fontSize=1

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