#USA, #Wastewater Data for Avian #Influenza #H5 (US CDC, June 26 '26)

 

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Time Period: June 14, 2026 - June 20, 2026

    -- A(H5) Detection: 4 site(s) (0.9%)

    -- No Detection:  455 site(s) (99.1%)

    -- No samples: 32 site(s)

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Source: 

Link: https://www.cdc.gov/wastewater/emerging-viruses/h5.html?

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Avian #influenza #overview March–May 2026 (ECDC, Summary, June 26 '26)

26 June 2026

Publication series: Avian influenza overview

    

    Between 28 February and 4 June 2026, 949 highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) A(H5) virus detections were reported in domestic (186) and wild (763) birds in 30 countries in Europe.

Abstract

    The downward trend in the number of detections observed at the end of the previous reporting period continued and is expected to persist throughout the summer. 

    While the number of HPAI A(H5N1) outbreaks in domestic birds remained at a low level, except in a few countries, A(H9N2) virus of clade G5.5 was detected in poultry in Europe for the first time. 

    Following the intense circulation of HPAI viruses in waterfowl in recent months, sporadic detections were reported in mammals, particularly in wild carnivores, including the detection of A(H5N5) virus in a polar bear and a walrus in Norway. 

    Outside Europe, the focus of HPAI virus detections shifted from North to South America, where a large number of outbreaks and mortality events in swans were reported. 

    Between 28 February and 4 June 2026, 19 cases of avian influenza virus infection were publicly reported in humans (including three fatal cases) in six countries and territories: Bangladesh (two cases with A(H5N1), one fatal), Cambodia (three cases with A(H5N1), one fatal), India (one case with A(H5N1)), Italy (one imported case with A(H9N2)), China (10 A(H9N2) cases and one fatal A(H5N6) case), and Taiwan (one A(H7N7) case). 

    Most human cases reported exposure to poultry or a poultry environment prior to detection or onset of illness. 

    Human infections with avian influenza viruses remain rare and no sustained human-to-human transmission has been documented. 

    The risk posed by avian influenza A(H5N1) clade 2.3.4.4b viruses currently circulating in Europe remains low for the general public in the European Union/European Economic Area (EU/EEA) and low-to-moderate for those occupationally or otherwise exposed to infected animals or contaminated environments.

Source: 

Link: https://www.ecdc.europa.eu/en/publications-data/avian-influenza-overview-march-may-2026

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Surveillance for West NileVirus Infections in Humans in Europe, Weekly Report: Week 26, 2026 (ECDC, summary)

 

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Epidemiological summary

    Since the beginning of 2026, and as of 24 June, two countries in Europe reported three human cases{1} of West Nile virus (WNV) infection: Italy (two cases) and North Macedonia (one case).

    The current report in Table 1 includes the number of probable and confirmed cases of WNV infections per NUTS3 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. 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.

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#) Country

    ° Affected area*

        § Newly affected area**

            - Number of probable cases - Number of confirmed cases - Total cases 

1) Italy

    ° Caserta

        § No

            - 0 / 1 /1 

    ° Firenze

         § No

            - 0 / 1 /1 

2) North Macedonia

    ° Vardarski

        § No

            - 0 / 1 / 1

__

{*} An ‘affected area’ or ‘risk area’ is defined as ‘a risk area with ongoing transmission of WNV to humans’. This means that at least one autochthonous human case of WNV has been reported as a result of local transmission in the area according to the agreed, standardised and disease-specific case definition. In exceptional circumstances, a probable case can be used to determine transmission, however, this should only apply in specific and agreed situations when a case cannot be confirmed within a reasonable time.

{**} Compared to the previous weekly report.

(...)

Source: 

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

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#CostaRica - #Influenza A #H5 viruses of high pathogenicity (Inf. with) (non-poultry including wild birds) (2017-) - Immediate notification

 

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By Benjamint444 - Own work, GFDL 1.2, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=26540141

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Late in the afternoon of Thursday, June 18 of this year, officials from the National System of Conservation Areas (SINAC) of the Ministry of Environment and Energy (MINAE) found a blue-footed booby at Espadilla Beach in Manuel Antonio, Quepos city. The bird was transferred to the quarantine area of an animal rescue center in Quepos, where it was euthanized on Friday, June 19, and a necropsy was performed to collect samples. These samples were transported by official SENASA personnel to the National Laboratory of Veterinary Services (LANASEVE) on Monday, June 22, and a positive result for highly pathogenic avian influenza type A, H5, was obtained on June 24. As complementary measures, public-private coordination strategies have been established to strengthen epidemiological surveillance, promote the reporting of suspected cases nationwide, and reinforce biosecurity measures. To date, there is no evidence of disease transmission to domestic birds.

Source: WOAH, https://wahis.woah.org/#/home

Link: https://wahis.woah.org/#/in-review/7657

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Effectiveness of #baloxavir marboxil in nonhuman #primates infected with highly pathogenic avian #influenza #H7N9 virus

 

Summary

Background

Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) A(H7N9) virus poses a potential public health threat, underscoring the need for effective antiviral options for outbreak preparedness. Baloxavir marboxil (BXM) is a cap-dependent endonuclease inhibitor approved for seasonal influenza, but its in vivo efficacy against HPAI A(H7N9) virus has not been fully evaluated.

Methods

We evaluated the efficacy of BXM in cynomolgus macaques infected with a reverse genetics-generated HPAI A(H7N9) virus. Animals received either low- or high-dose BXM, single-dose oseltamivir, or vehicle at 4 or 48 h post-infection (hpi). BXM administration was designed to mimic human pharmacokinetics. Viral titres, body temperature, body weight, lung pathology, and treatment-emergent viral substitutions were analysed.

Findings

Early treatment (4 hpi) with BXM significantly reduced viral titres in nasal and tracheal swabs, lessened weight loss, and decreased pulmonary inflammation and alveolar damage compared to untreated or oseltamivir-treated animals. Virus pathogenicity was relatively mild; no animals died. Delayed treatment (48 hpi) showed limited benefit. The PA-I38T (83.8%) and PA-E23G (78.6%) substitutions associated with BXM resistance were detected in one animal, and a PA-K34R (85.4%) substitution was detected in another animal. These substitutions reduce BXM susceptibility and were detected at low titres.

Interpretation

Although the dosing regimen used in this study involved repeat dosing to achieve the plasma drug concentrations after a single dose in humans, these findings highlight the importance of early antiviral intervention and support BXM use as a potential countermeasure against HPAI A(H7N9) virus infection, as resistance-associated substitutions remained limited in the macaque model. BXM may be a valuable therapeutic option for HPAI A(H7N9) virus infections.

Funding

Supported by the Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development (JP20wm0125002, JP223fa627001) and Shionogi & Co., Ltd.

Source: 

Link: https://www.thelancet.com/journals/ebiom/article/PIIS2352-3964(26)00233-1/fulltext

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Size of the 2026 #Ebola #outbreak and #risk of cross-border #spillover from #Bundibugyo virus in Ituri Province, #DRC, and its implications for #preparedness: a recalibrated stochastic modelling study

 

Summary

Background

On May 15, 2026, WHO declared a Bundibugyo virus (BDBV) outbreak in Ituri Province, DR Congo with an estimated index case on April 1, 2026 (6-week pre-declaration interval). By May 24, DR Congo reported 906 suspected cases (105 confirmed and ten confirmed deaths) across three provinces. Uganda reported seven confirmed cases (three imported; four locally acquired including three health-care workers; case-fatality ratio 14%). WHO declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern on May 17, 2026; Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention declared a Public Health Emergency of Continental Security on May 18, 2026. The study aimed to establish a short-term trajectory of the BDBV outbreak and probability of cross-border spillover into countries with elevated risk of importation to guide preparedness priorities.

Methods

We calibrated a stochastic SEIRD (susceptible, exposed, infectious, recovered, and dead) ensemble model to the laboratory-confirmed case series, anchoring on 598 cumulative confirmed cases on June 8, 2026 (day 68) using simulation filtering (calibration window ±30%; reporting fraction 1·0 for laboratory-confirmed cases). The case-fatality ratio was drawn from a previous value centred on the observed confirmed-case ratio of approximately 19% (115 of 598). A linked daily-hazard spillover model estimated importation probability for Uganda, South Sudan, Rwanda, and Burundi over a 12-week horizon. The early suspected-case series, which peaked at 1077 on May 26, 2026, before being substantially revised downward by laboratory reclassification, is reported for context but was not used for calibration.

Findings

Laboratory-confirmed DR Congo cases rose from 33 on May 18, 2026, to 598 by June 8, 2026. Calibrated to the confirmed-case anchor (598 on June 8, 2026; central basic reproduction number [R0]=1·71), the confirmed-case trajectory is most consistent with the central scenario. Under the central scenario the ensemble projected a median of 990 cumulative confirmed cases by week 12 (June 24, 2026; 90% prediction interval [PI] 709–1293) and 174 deaths; the low scenario projected 870 confirmed cases (90% PI 641–1133) and 160 deaths. The early suspected-case count (peak 1077 on 26 May 2026) was substantially revised by laboratory reclassification and is reported for context only. Cross-border spillover remained material: Uganda 94·2% importation probability (19 confirmed cases as of June 4, 2026, including five health-care worker infections and two deaths); South Sudan 69·3%; Rwanda 8·6%; and Burundi 2·0%. As of June 22, 2026, DR Congo has 1048 confirmed cases and 267 confirmed deaths and Uganda has 20 confirmed cases, two confirmed deaths, and one probable death. These numbers are changing daily and are likely to align with what is predicted in the central scenario.

Interpretation

From the most recent laboratory-confirmed data, the outbreak is closer to what is predicted by the central scenario, even with the intensified response within DR Congo. However, uncertainty remains around reported case numbers due to low rate of contact tracing. Sustained control nonetheless remains the primary determinant of regional risk: importation into Uganda is already established, and South Sudan must continue to reinforce infection prevention and control, rapid response capacity, and cross-border surveillance under International Health Regulations 2005. These projections should be interpreted as exploratory preparedness-oriented estimates derived from a stochastic scenario-based modelling framework, rather than predictions generated from formally fitted epidemiological models using comprehensive parameter estimation and identifiability analyses.

Funding

None.

Translations

For the French and Swahili translations of the abstract see Supplementary Materials section.

Source: 

Link: https://www.thelancet.com/journals/laninf/article/PIIS1473-3099(26)00320-8/fulltext

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#Nipah virus disease - #India (WHO D.O.N., June 25 '26)

 

Situation at a glance

    On 11 June 2026, the Kerala State Health Department confirmed one laboratory confirmed case of Nipah virus (NiV) infection in Kozhikode district, Kerala State, India. 

    The case is an adult male who developed symptoms on 30 May 2026 and was hospitalized on 10 June 2026. 

    He presented with neurological manifestations and at the time of reporting is on ventilatory support in an intensive care unit (ICU). 

    As of 18 June 2026, a total of 104 contacts had been identified and were under monitoring, including health and care workers, with no reported secondary cases to date. 

    NiV is a zoonotic disease transmitted to humans through infected animals, or through consumption of fruits or fruit products, such as raw date palm juice contaminated with the saliva, urine, or excreta of infected bats, as well as close contact with infected individuals. 

    The current event involves a single confirmed case, with no secondary transmission identified to date. 

    Public health measures are in place, including isolation, contact tracing, and enhanced surveillance. 

    However, as the source of infection has not yet been identified and given the known presence of animal reservoirs, additional cases cannot be excluded.

Description of the situation

    On 11 June 2026, WHO was informed of a laboratory-confirmed case of Nipah virus infection reported in Kozhikode district, Kerala State. 

    Initial positive results were obtained through PCR testing at local laboratories and were subsequently confirmed by RT‑PCR at the National Institute of Virology, Pune.

    The case is an adult male resident of Kozhikode district. He developed symptoms on 30 May 2026 and was admitted to hospital on 10 June 2026. The clinical presentation was primarily neurological, without reported respiratory symptoms prior to intubation. The patient is on ventilatory support in the ICU.

    Following confirmation of the case, extensive contact tracing was initiated. As of 18 June 2026, a total of 104 contacts had been identified, including four very high-risk, 14 high-risk, and 86 low-risk contacts. Among these, 45 are health and care workers. All contacts are under active monitoring with regular follow-up, and no secondary cases have been reported to date.

    This event follows a pattern of recurrent Nipah virus outbreaks in Kerala, including in Kozhikode district, since the first outbreak was reported in 2018. Additional outbreaks occurred in 2019, 2021, 2023, 2025, and 2026 according to the NCDC Communicable Disease Alert.

Epidemiology

    NiV infection is a zoonotic disease transmitted to humans through infected animals (such as bats), or fruit or fruit products contaminated with saliva, urine, and excreta of infected bats.  

    Fruit bats or flying foxes (Pteropus species) are the natural hosts for the virus.  

    It can also be transmitted directly from person to person through close contact with an infected person.

    The incubation period ranges from 3 to 14 days. In some rare cases, an incubation period of up to 45 days has been reported. 

    Laboratory diagnosis of a patient with a clinical history of NiV infection can be made during the acute and convalescent phases of the disease by using a combination of tests. 

    The main tests used are RT-PCR from bodily fluids and antibody detection via ELISA. 

    Human infections range from asymptomatic infection to acute respiratory infection (mild, severe), neurological symptoms, and fatal encephalitis (brain swelling). 

    Infected people initially develop symptoms including fever, headaches, myalgia (muscle pain), vomiting and sore throat. This can be followed by dizziness, drowsiness, altered consciousness, and neurological signs that indicate acute encephalitis (brain swelling). Some people can also experience atypical pneumonia and severe respiratory complications, including acute respiratory distress. Encephalitis and seizures occur in severe cases, progressing to coma within 24 to 48 hours. 

    The case fatality ratio (CFR) in outbreaks across Bangladesh, India, Malaysia, and Singapore range from 40% to 75%, depending on local capabilities for early detection and clinical management.  

    Intensive supportive care is recommended to treat severe respiratory and neurologic complications.  

    There are currently no licensed medicines or vaccines specific for NiV infection.  

    Henipavirus nipahense (Nipah virus) is considered a priority pathogen for the accelerated development of medical countermeasures (MCMs) to respond to epidemics and pandemics as part of the WHO R&D Blueprint for Epidemics.  

    Further information about NiV infection can be found here. 

Public health response

    National and State authorities have implemented a range of coordinated response measures, including surveillance, case management, contact tracing, risk communication, and One Health investigations.

    Immediate initiation of response measures upon preliminary positive laboratory results prior to national confirmation. Ongoing monitoring and coordination by State and Central health authorities, including the activation of Rapid Response Teams and coordination meetings at district level. 

    Deployment of central expert teams: a National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) team and an Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) expert team both visited Kozhikode on 13 June 2026 to evaluate the situation and provide technical support for ongoing response activities.

    Establishment of a State High-Power Committee for Epidemic Control: the Kerala State Health Department has constituted a multi-sectoral expert committee to study recurrent seasonal outbreaks in Kerala and develop evidence-based preventive recommendations. Membership includes government and private-sector clinicians, One Health experts, representatives from Animal Husbandry, Food Safety, Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homoeopathy (AYUSH), and local government bodies.

    Identification and monitoring of 104 contacts, with twice-daily follow-up.

    Establishment of isolation wards and dedicated quarantine facilities at Kozhikode Government Medical College Hospital. Provision and stockpiling of personal protective equipment (PPE) and essential medical supplies.

    Establishment of a control room for risk communication and public queries.

    Systematic community surveillance: door-to-door surveys completed across all 320 households (1047 residents) in Ramanattukara Municipality Division 5. No Nipah-compatible symptoms were identified among surveyed residents.

    Psychosocial support: a district mental health programme is providing psychological support to contacts under quarantine, with 125 contacts reached by 18 June 2026.

    One Health and environmental investigation: Animal Husbandry Department conducted specimen collection within a 5 km radius of the epicentre, including bat specimens (collected with Forest Department assistance) and faecal samples from bat roosting sites along with samples from other animals. All samples have been dispatched to the National Institute of High Security Animal Diseases (NIHSAD), Bhopal, for Nipah virus testing; results are pending.

    WHO continues to monitor the evolving situation and support risk assessment and coordination efforts as needed.

WHO risk assessment

    Nipah virus (NiV) (Henipavirus nipahense) is a rare zoonotic pathogen with a high case fatality rate (40–75%) and no licensed vaccine or specific antiviral treatment. 

    Its natural reservoirs are fruit bats (Pteropus spp.), which are widely distributed across India, South and Southeast Asia, and parts of Oceania. 

    Transmission to humans can occur through direct contact with infected animals, including bats and domestic animals, via contaminated food products such as raw date palm sap, or through close and prolonged contact with infected individuals, particularly in healthcare settings.

    Since its first identification in 1998, NiV outbreaks have been reported in Bangladesh, India, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Singapore. 

    In India, outbreaks have been recurrent but relatively limited in scale, with the highest numbers reported in 2001 (66 cases) and 2018 (18 cases). 

    Over the past five years, approximately a dozen confirmed cases have been reported, all in Kerala State. Kerala has experienced NiV events since 2018 and has established surveillance systems, laboratory capacity, and rapid response mechanisms, including Rapid Response Teams at central and state levels. Ecological conditions, including those in districts such as Kozhikode, support fruit bat populations, facilitating repeated spillover events. Seasonal patterns are observed and locally, April to September is recognized as a Nipah high‑alert period.

    The current event involves a single confirmed case with no evidence of secondary transmission as of 23 June 2026. The case has been isolated, and public health measures, including contact tracing, enhanced surveillance, and strengthened infection prevention and control in healthcare settings, have been rapidly implemented. The event appears to be geographically limited, with no evidence of international spread reported.

    However, as the source of infection has not yet been identified and given the presence of known animal reservoirs and ongoing seasonal risk, additional cases, including sporadic zoonotic spillover, cannot be excluded.

    This event represents the second notification of NiV infection in India in 2026, following the earlier two epidemiologically linked cases reported in West Bengal state in January 2026. There is an ongoing moderate sub-national risk, driven by recurrent zoonotic spillover, limited clinical specificity during the early stages of disease, and the absence of licensed vaccines or specific therapeutics, with potential for transmission among close contacts and in healthcare settings. 

    At the regional and global levels, the risk remains low, given the absence of cross-border or international spread and the geographically contained nature of the outbreak.

WHO advice

    In the absence of a licensed vaccine or specific therapeutic treatment for Nipah virus disease, reducing or preventing infection in people relies on raising awareness of the risk factors. 

    This includes providing guidance on and reinforcing risk communication messages about the measures that people can take to reduce exposure to the Nipah virus. 

    Patient management should focus on delivering timely supportive care, supported by an effective laboratory system and adequate infection prevention and control measures in health facilities. 

    Intensive supportive care is recommended for treatment of severe respiratory and neurologic complications.  

    Public health educational messages should focus on: 

        ° Reducing the risk of bat-to-human transmission 

            Efforts to prevent transmission should first focus on decreasing bat access to date palm sap and other fresh food products. 

            Freshly collected date palm juice should be boiled, and fruits should be thoroughly washed and peeled before consumption. 

            Fruits with signs of bat bites should be discarded. 

            Areas where bats are known to roost should be avoided. 

        ° Reducing the risk of human-to-human transmission. 

            Close unprotected physical contact with NiV-infected people should be avoided. 

            Regular hand washing should be carried out after caring for or visiting sick people along other preventive measures. 

            People experiencing Nipah-like symptoms should be referred to a health facility, as early supportive care is key in the absence of treatment. 

            Contact tracing and monitoring are also key to mitigate human-to-human transmission.  

        ° Controlling infection in health care settings 

            Health and care workers caring for patients with suspected or confirmed infection, or handling specimens from them, should always implement standard precautions for infection prevention and control at all times, for all patients. 

            When caring for patients with suspected or confirmed NiV, WHO advises the use of contact and droplet precautions including a well-fitting medical mask, eye protection, a fluid-resistant gown, and examination gloves. 

            Airborne precautions should be implemented during aerosol-generating procedures, including placing the patient in an airborne-infection isolation room and the use of a fit-tested filtering facepiece respirator instead of a medical mask. 

            Suspected or confirmed cases of NiV should be placed in a single-patient room. 

            Samples taken from people and animals with suspected NiV infection should be handled by trained staff working in suitably equipped laboratories. 

Based on the currently available information, WHO does not recommend any travel and/or trade restrictions. 

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Source: 

Link: https://www.who.int/emergencies/disease-outbreak-news/item/2026-DON609

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Detection of #antibodies against avian #influenza in #European dairy #cattle, the #Netherlands, January 2026

 

Abstract

In December 2025, highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b genotype DI.2.1 virus was detected in a cat living on a dairy cattle farm. Milk and serum samples from the dairy cattle were tested for avian influenza virus. No viral RNA was detected; however, H5N1-specific antibodies were identified in serum samples from 34 (47.2%) of 72 lactating dairy cows and 24 (63.2%) of 38 youngstock. These demonstrate expansion of the mammalian host range of HPAI H5N1 in Europe.

Source: 

Link: https://www.eurosurveillance.org/content/10.2807/1560-7917.ES.2026.31.25.2600464#abstract_content

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A #drug #repurposing screen identifies #antiviral compounds against #Puumala #Orthohantavirus

Abstract

Hantaviruses are zoonotic negative-sense RNA viruses that cause haemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) and hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS), yet no approved antiviral therapies are available. To identify host-directed modulators of hantavirus infection we performed a drug repurposing screen using live Puumala virus (PUUV). We identified and validated 70 drugs with antiviral activity in A549 cells and primary human endothelial cells. Functional clustering confirmed the known infection-inhibitory effect of several groups of compounds, including inhibitors of heat shock proteins, mTOR pathway and nucleotide synthesis. Our screen also identified compounds yet unexplored as antivirals against Hantaviruses, such as certain antibiotics. Our dataset provides a systematic map of host pathways influencing PUUV infection and highlights candidate compounds and cellular processes that can modulate this process.

Source: 

Link: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-026-57843-1

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Cross-clade #vaccination to overcome #sarbecovirus or #merbecovirus #neutralization gaps

 

Highlights

    • Multiplex sVNT profiles neutralizing antibodies across two zoonotic viral families

    • Pre-pandemic serosurveillance identifies human exposure to ACE2-using MERS-like viruses

    • Pathogen-specific vaccination leaves major neutralization gaps against related viral clades

    • Cross-clade prime-and-boost vaccination elicits broad-spectrum neutralizing antibodies

Summary

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic highlights the importance of identifying high risk pathogens, defining the immunity gaps and developing preemptive vaccination strategies. Here, we establish a high-resolution surrogate virus neutralization test detecting neutralizing antibodies against multiple virus families simultaneously, demonstrating good concordance with traditional assays. Extensive serosurveillance of pre-pandemic sera from different continents reveals low prevalence human exposures to different beta-coronaviruses, and identifies individuals with prior exposure to ACE2-binding MERS-like viruses. Furthermore, COVID-19 vaccination induces significant cross-neutralizing antibodies against clade 1b, 1c, and 3 but not clade 1a sarbecoviruses. Similarly, MERS and Nipah convalescent sera neutralize cognate viruses but have limited cross-neutralization against other related merbecoviruses and henipaviruses that utilize DPP4 and ephrin B2 receptors. Finally, a cross-clade prime-and-boost vaccination strategy using antigenically distinct antigens could induce broadly neutralizing antibodies against related viruses beyond vaccine antigens, supporting broad-spectrum beta coronavirus vaccine development.

Source: 

Link: https://www.cell.com/cell-reports/fulltext/S2211-1247(26)00522-X?_returnURL=https%3A%2F%2Flinkinghub.elsevier.com%2Fretrieve%2Fpii%2FS221112472600522X%3Fshowall%3Dtrue

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Assessment of #safety and immunogenicity of a #protein subunit #COVID19 #vaccine (ABDALA) in #pregnant women: a single-cohort, multicenter, observational ESPIRTA study

Abstract

Background

Pregnant and lactating women are generally excluded from clinical trials during vaccine development. While the safety, inmunogenicity, efficacy, and effectiveness of the Abdala vaccine against COVID-19 have been demonstrated in the general population, there is a lack of specific information regarding its benefits for pregnant women. Consequently, this study was undertaken to evaluate the safety of the Abdala vaccine in pregnant women and their newborns, as well as to assess the maternal immune response elicited by the vaccination and its capacity for passive immunity transfer to the newborn.

Methods

A simple cohort observational multicenter study was conducted across five maternity hospital in Havana City, Cuba. A hybrid approach was employed, integrating both retrospective and prospective data collection methods. The study analyzed all events occurring from the first dose of the Abdala vaccine during pregnancy, delivery, and the postpartum period, as well as those related to the fetus-/neonate. To provide contextual data from our settings as a reference for descriptive analyses, statistical information concerning some pregnancy-related and fetal-neonatal events from the same five maternity hospitals in the year 2020 was utilized (historical data). Immunogenicity analyses were conducted in a subgroup of participants from a single maternity hospital, measuring antibodies against the receptor-binding domain of SARS-CoV-2 (Anti-RBD IgG antibodies) and neutralizing antibodies (Nab) against two SARS-CoV-2 strains (D614G and Omicron B.1.1.529) were measured in both maternal and umbilical cord sera. Additionally, anti-IgA antibodies were evaluated in a colostrum samples. Antibody transfer across the placenta and breast milk was also analyzed. Various comparisons were made regarding gestational age at birth, vaccination trimester, timing from vaccination to delivery, and receipt of a booster dose, among other analyses. A formal sample size estimate was not made. Pregnant women who attended the aforementioned hospitals and met the established criteria were included in the study cohort. Descriptive statistics were utilized to characterize the study population. The Wilcoxon sum rank test was used for most immunological evaluations, while logistic regression analyses estimated the effects of different variables. The correlation between anti-RBD IgG titers in maternal and umbilical cord sera was assessed using Pearson's correlation coefficient. All statistical tests were performed at a significance level of p < 0.05.

Results

The study was conducted in five Cuban hospitals from December 2021 to June 2022, involving a total of 940 pregnant women women who received the Abdala vaccine during their pregnancy. The common adverse events reported within the 72 h post-vaccination with the Abdala vaccine were consistent with previous findings using this vaccine in clinical trials and widespread vaccination campaigns in the general population, predominantly presenting as pain at the injection site (4.9%), somnolence (2.6%), and headache (2.3%). All reported events were of mild intensity. In terms of maternal morbidity, the predominant event noted was SARS-CoV-2 infection, with 83 cases (8.83%), primarily categorized as asymptomatic cases or exhibiting mild symptomatic disease. Overall, IgA titers were detected in 202 colostrum samples, with GMT of 1,227 (95% CI 986; 1,527). High anti-RBD IgG titers were found in 189 maternal and 231 umbilical cord blood samples, with GMT of 1,392.15 (95% CI 1,174; 1,651) and 1,923 (95% CI 1,625; 2,275) respectively. The placental transfer ratio (PTR) of anti-RBD IgG titers had a median of 1.54 (IQR 1.48), indicating effective transfer. The PTR of NAb exceeded 1 for both D614G and Omicron (B.1.1.529), being significantly higher in full-term newborns compared to premature newborns.

Conclusions

The ESPIRTA study provides valuable information concerning the application of the Abdala vaccine in specific populations, such as pregnant women, which was not available prior to this study. The safety evaluation of the Abdala vaccine during pregnancy, delivery and the puerperium, as well as in fetus-newborn, revealed no safety signals, as indicated by this cohort study. Elevated anti-RBD IgG titers were detected, in both in maternal serum and cord samples, indicating a positive correlation between them. Moreover, an efficient transfer of IgG antibodies across the placenta was demonstrated. The high anti-IgA titers found in the colostrum may provide an additional advantage regarding the passive transfer of antibodies from mother to newborn through breastfeeding. Furthermore, neutralizing antibodies against two SARS-CoV-2 strains, D614 G and the more recent Omicron B.1.1.529 variant, were identified. Further research is recommended to assess the long-term safety and efficacy of the Abdala vaccine for pregnant women and their newborns.

Source: 

Link: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12884-026-09488-1

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A #bovine #H5N1 virus efficiently replicates in differentiated #human #nasal epithelial #cells

 

Abstract

Highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5N1) viruses of clade 2.3.4.4b have caused significant losses in bird populations worldwide and repeatedly infected mammals, including humans, without sustained human to human transmission. Here we show that an H5N1 virus (H5N1Tex/24) isolated from bovine milk in Texas in 2024 replicates just as efficiently in differentiated human nasal epithelial cells as a pandemic H1N1 virus strain from 2009 (H1N1HH4/09), at both 37 °C and 33 °C. The adaptive mutations PB2 M631L and PA K497R promoted replication at 33 °C but had no effect on replication at 37 °C. An H5N1 virus (H5N1BE/22) isolated from a pelican in 2022, which lacked these mutations, replicated efficiently at 37 °C but poorly at 33 °C, and this limitation was not overcome by the introduction of the PB2 M631L and PA K497R mutations. The differentiated nasal epithelial cell cultures expressed receptors for both human and avian influenza viruses. Accordingly, no HA mutations associated with altered receptor specificity were detected. H5N1Tex/24 was able to effectively suppress the production of interferon-λ, yet remained sensitive to the antiviral effects of this cytokine. These findings suggest that H5N1Tex/24 possesses intrinsic traits supporting efficient replication in differentiated human upper airway cell cultures.

Source: npj Viruses, https://www.nature.com/npjviruses/

Link: https://www.nature.com/articles/s44298-026-00208-2

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Addressing the #zoonotic #threat of #merbecoviruses

 

Abstract

Merbecovirus is a subgenus of betacoronaviruses and exhibits high genetic diversity with a capacity for cross-species transmission. However, beyond Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV), our knowledge of the ecology and pathogenic potential of these viruses remains limited. Merbecoviruses were once thought to rely exclusively on dipeptidyl peptidase 4 for cell entry, but recent discoveries have revealed that several members can also engage with angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 or aminopeptidase N, expanding their receptor repertoire and potential host range. Here we summarize recent advances in understanding of the receptor usage of merbecoviruses and examine how these insights inform pandemic preparedness and risk assessment. We discuss the development of targeted diagnostics, broad-spectrum antivirals and vaccines, including pan-coronavirus strategies. Together, these advances provide a foundation for predictive surveillance and rational countermeasure design, enabling earlier detection and more effective containment of future merbecovirus spillover events before they escalate into epidemics.

Source: 

Link: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41564-026-02397-1

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#Antibodies Cross-Reactive with #Bundibugyo Virus in #Ferrets Vaccinated with #Ebola Virus #Vaccine

 

Abstract

Banked serum samples from ferrets previously immunized with the Ebola virus vaccine revealed a prominent but limited humoral immune response that cross-reacted with Bundibugyo virus. The supporting immunogenicity data we report may help guide the ongoing response to the current outbreak of Bundibugyo virus in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Source: Emerging Infectious Diseases Journal, https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/eid/

Link: https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/eid/article/32/8/26-0948_article

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#Bundibugyo Virus Disease in 2026 — #Clinical and Public Health #Responses

 

Summary

Bundibugyo virus is a relatively rare orthoebolavirus that has caused only two previously recognized disease outbreaks but remains capable of producing severe epidemic disease with substantial mortality. The 2026 outbreak of Bundibugyo virus disease in the Democratic Republic of Congo has highlighted persistent challenges in the detection of filovirus disease outbreaks, as well as in diagnosis, clinical management, and the public health response, particularly in resource-limited settings. As with other filovirus infections, effective control of the Bundibugyo virus disease outbreak depends on rapid identification of cases, laboratory confirmation of infection, isolation of cases, contact tracing, infection-prevention measures, protection of health care workers, and community engagement. Although no licensed vaccines or approved therapeutics specific to Bundibugyo virus disease are currently available, advances in supportive care have improved outcomes during recent filovirus disease outbreaks. Experimental evidence from studies involving nonhuman primates, serologic investigations with human samples, and monoclonal antibody research suggests that vaccines and therapeutics developed against Ebola virus may provide cross-protective activity against Bundibugyo virus. These observations support prototype-pathogen approaches to preparedness while underscoring the need for continued development of pathogen-specific countermeasures. The current outbreak reinforces the principle that a successful response to filovirus disease requires integration of medical countermeasures, clinical care, surveillance, diagnostics, and coordinated multinational public health operations.

Source: 

Link: https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMra2607216?query=TOC&cid=DM2454531_NEJM_Non_Subscriber&bid=-732391206

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#Clinical Characteristics of #Patients Infected with #Bundibugyo Virus, #DRC 2026

 

{Excerpt}

To the Editor:

The clinical characterization of Bundibugyo virus disease (BVD), caused by Bundibugyo virus, a species of orthoebolavirus, is less well described than infection with more frequently encountered filovirus species.1 We report here signs and symptoms and basic laboratory data from the current 2026 BVD outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Ethics approval for this study was obtained from the ethical review committee of the University of Kinshasa.

(...)

In this cohort, we report signs and symptoms at the time of presentation that were mostly consistent with previous descriptions of infection with Bundibugyo virus3 and other filovirus species.

(...)

Link: https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMc2608070?query=TOC

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Detection of and Early #Genomic #Insights into #Chikungunya Virus, #Bolivia, 2025

 

Abstract

We report the detection and genomic characterization of chikungunya virus, an arbovirus, during a 2025 outbreak in Bolivia. We identified the circulating chikungunya virus lineage and the transmission dynamics by using genomic surveillance and phylogenetic analyses. Our findings highlight the utility of sustained genomic surveillance for monitoring emerging arboviruses.

Source: 

Link: https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/eid/article/32/7/26-0540_article

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Yellow #fever - #Global (WHO, D.O.N., June 24 '26, summary)

 

Situation at a glance

    Yellow fever is a viral disease found in areas of Africa and the Americas, spread by infected mosquitoes. 

    Following an increase of cases in the Americas in 2025, transmission activity remained into 2026. 

    From 1 January to 26 May 2026, six countries reported a total of 79 human infections along with multiple epizootics, indicating active sylvatic circulation. 

    In Africa, sustained activity continued across parts of the region, affecting 13 high-risk countries (as per classification in the Eliminate Yellow fever Epidemics (EYE) Strategy). 

    From January to May 2026, three countries in Africa reported 16 confirmed human cases, with an additional 32 suspected cases under investigation in five other countries. 

    The recent rapid risk assessment assessed geographical variations in vaccination coverage, evidence of viral circulation, and the presence of competent vectors, concluding that unvaccinated populations in countries or areas with a history of yellow fever transmission remain at greatest risk. 

    Transmission dynamics are further influenced by seasonal ecological factors, particularly rainfall, temperature, and mosquito abundance. 

    Outbreaks reported from October 2025 through May 2026 in countries or areas with a history of yellow fever transmission were generally consistent with seasonal patterns or reflected gaps in immunization coverage. 

    In contrast, cases detected in previously unaffected areas suggest viral introduction and an increased risk of urban transmission. 

    No imported cases were detected outside the two affected WHO regions, but expanding vector suitability, rapid urbanization, climate shifts, and increased mobility continue to create conditions conducive to international spread. 

    WHO emphasizes the importance of active surveillance, timely laboratory testing, cross-border coordination, and information sharing. 

    Vaccination remains the primary means for the prevention and control of yellow fever. 

    WHO continues to support countries in expanding vaccination coverage through routine immunization programmes and preventive vaccination campaigns to enhance population immunity and reduce the risk of outbreaks.

(...)

Source: 

Link: https://www.who.int/emergencies/disease-outbreak-news/item/2026-DON610

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#Healthcare-associated #transmission and early #IPC system #vulnerabilities during 2026 #Bundibugyo #Ebola #outbreak in eastern #DRC

 

Abstract

The 2026 Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak in eastern DRC highlighted important early infection prevention and control (IPC) challenges, including healthcare-associated transmission, healthcare worker infections, unsafe triage systems, limited isolation capacity, and shortages of IPC supplies. This commentary argues that pathogen-specific preparedness may remain insufficient in settings characterized by diagnostic uncertainty and proposes an “IPC-first” outbreak response framework based on rapid syndromic IPC activation before definitive laboratory confirmation becomes available.

Source: 

Link: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s13756-026-01779-8

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#France, #Ebola: First case identified in a humanitarian #doctor returning from a mission in the #DRC (Min. Health, June 24 '26)

 

    France has specialized capabilities for managing highly transmissible infectious diseases. Patients are treated in a designated healthcare facility, following strict biosafety protocols (negative pressure room, dedicated equipment and protocols). Health authorities are fully mobilized and the situation is being continuously monitored.

    All precautionary measures, including the patient's isolation, were taken upon his arrival in the country, with transfer to the hospital under secure conditions to prevent any risk of contamination. 

    A thorough epidemiological investigation is underway to identify individuals who may have been in contact with the patient. 

    These individuals will be contacted without delay by the regional health agency, will undergo 21 days of home isolation, and will be closely monitored during this period. 

    Following the Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) declared by the World Health Organization (WHO) on May 17 in response to the active circulation of the Ebola virus in Ituri Province, DRC, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has assessed the risk of infection as low for European residents and travelers to areas of active transmission, and very low for the general European population.

    A dedicated monitoring system is in place for the return of French aid workers to the national territory.

What is the Ebola virus?

    Ebola virus disease is a serious and often fatal illness. The virus is transmitted to humans from wild animals and then from person to person through direct contact with:

        ° Bodily fluids (blood, saliva, urine, semen, breast milk, sweat, feces and vomit from infected persons, whether alive or not);

        ° The bodies of people who died from Ebola virus disease;

        ° Objects that have been contaminated by the bodily fluids of infected patients (e.g., needles);

        ° Bushmeat from wild animals.

    The disease is characterized by high fevers and often fatal hemorrhages. 

    The incubation period, that is, the time between contact with the virus and the appearance of the first symptoms, varies from 2 to 21 days. 

    As long as they do not show symptoms, infected individuals are not contagious. 

    Currently, there is no specific treatment for Ebola {Bundibugyo virus} disease; treatment focuses on managing the symptoms, particularly through rehydration.

What are the health recommendations?

    Given the absence of the virus circulating on French territory, the precautionary health recommendations apply mainly to the French territories bordering the Indian Ocean, and to travelers going to or returning to the DRC in the provinces of Ituri, North Kivu and South Kivu and Uganda.

    {1} For French nationals currently in the country, it is recommended to avoid areas experiencing outbreaks of the epidemic and, if this is impossible, to:

        ° Respect basic hygiene rules, including regular hand washing;

        ° Avoid close contact with people who have a fever. The virus is transmitted through direct contact with blood or bodily fluids;

        ° Avoid all contact with wild animals, alive or dead;

        ° Do not consume or handle bushmeat.

    {2} For travelers going to areas where the virus is circulating, it is recommended that those who can postpone their trip, especially the most vulnerable (elderly people, people with disabilities, pregnant women, or those with comorbidities). If the trip must proceed, it is recommended to follow the aforementioned health guidelines and to:

        ° Regularly consult the information from the embassy or the "Travel Advice" section of the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs;

        ° Register for free on the Ariane Thread , in order to receive in real time all information and alerts from the French authorities;

    {3} For travelers returning to France from an area with active virus transmission, the following is required:

        ° Monitor your temperature every day for 21 days;

        ° If you develop a fever of 38°C or higher, and up to 21 days after returning to France, contact 15 immediately and await instructions. Do not go to your doctor or the hospital emergency room.

(...)

Source: 

Link: https://sante.gouv.fr/actualites-presse/presse/communiques-de-presse/article/ebola-identification-d-un-1er-cas-chez-un-medecin-humanitaire-de-retour-de

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