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History of Mass Transportation: The Renault ABH Autorail in service with the Chemins de Fer de la Corse

Par Didier Duforest — Travail personnel, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=12918351 Source: Link: https://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Autorail_Renault# ____

#Risk #assessment of #SARS-CoV-2 #infection from external #surfaces and biological samples of #COVID19 corpses

Highlights • Infectious SARS-CoV-2 were detected in nasopharynx and on the surface of corpses • Viral load and symptom-to-discovery time are linked to viral infectivity • Infectious viruses were not found in the body fluids • Our findings highlight strict infection control for COVID-19 corpse handling Abstract Objectives The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has resulted in millions of deaths worldwide . However, the risk of transmission from COVID-19 corpses remain unclear, posing challenges for forensic medicine in establishing effective infection control measures during autopsies . This study aimed to investigate the presence of infectious SARS-CoV-2 in corpses and identify factors affecting viral infectivity. Methods External examinations of 76 corpses with COVID-19 were performed, and nasopharyngeal, perioral, hand swabs, serum, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), and urine samples were collected. Viral RNA was quantified by using digital PCR, and infectious viruses were as...

Novel Highly Pathogenic Avian #Influenza #H5N1 Virus, #Argentina, 2025

Abstract Genomic sequencing of reemerging highly pathogenic avian influenza A(H5N1) virus detected in Argentina in February 2025 revealed novel triple-reassortant viruses containing gene segments from Eurasian H5N1 and low pathogenicity viruses from South and North American lineages . Our findings highlight continued evolution and diversification of clade 2.3.4.4b H5N1 in the Americas. Source: Link: https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/eid/article/31/12/25-0783_article ____

#USA, #Wastewater Data for Avian #Influenza #H5 (#US CDC, Dec. 12 '25)

{Excerpt} Time Period: November 30, 2025 - December 06, 2025 -- H5 Detection : 2 site(s) ( 0.5% ) -- No Detection : 390 site(s) ( 99.5% ) -- No samples in last week : 54 site(s) (...) Source: Link: https://www.cdc.gov/nwss/rv/wwd-h5.html ____

Safety and immunogenicity of a #Nipah virus #vaccine (HeV-sG-V) in adults: a single-centre, randomised, observer-blind, placebo-controlled, phase 1 study

Summary Background First discovered in 1999 in Malaysia, Nipah virus (NiV) causes yearly outbreaks throughout south and southeast Asia with associated mortality rates of 40–75%. Due to the structural and sequence similarities between the NiV and Hendra virus (HeV) attachment G glycoproteins , and the extensive extant evidence of the ability of a recombinant soluble glycoprotein G (HeV-sG) to provide heterologous cross-protective immunity when used as vaccine (HeV-sG-V), this study aimed to evaluate HeV-sG-V for safety, tolerability, and immunogenicity against NiV. Methods We conducted a phase 1, single-centre, randomised, observer-blind, placebo-controlled study . Eligible participants were aged 18–49 years, healthy, and not pregnant ; participants were ineligible if they were immunocompromised, had received blood products within 6 months of enrolment, had potential exposure to NiV or HeV, or had known allergies to components of the vaccine. Participants were randomly assigned in...

#Vaccine-induced #antigenic #drift of a #human-origin #H3N2 #Influenza A virus in swine alters glycan binding and sialic acid avidity

Abstract I nterspecies transmission of human influenza A viruses (FLUAV) to swine occurs frequently, yet the molecular factors driving adaptation remain poorly understood . Here we investigated how vaccine-induced immunity shapes the evolution of a human-origin H3N2 virus in pigs using an in vivo sustained transmission model . Pigs (seeders) were vaccinated with a commercial inactivated swine vaccine and then infected with an antigenically distinct FLUAV containing human-origin HA/NA . Contact pigs were introduced two days later. After 3 days, seeder pigs were removed, and new contacts introduced. This was repeated for a total of 4 contacts. Sequencing of nasal swab samples showed the emergence of mutations clustered near the HA receptor binding site , enabling immune escape and abolishing binding to N-glycolylneuraminic acid. Mutant viruses recognized α2,6-sialosides with 3 N-acetyllactosamine repeats , which are rare in swine lungs, while the parental virus bound structures wit...

High pathogenicity avian #influenza virus #H5N1 (clade 2.3.4.4b) drives mass #mortality in Eurasian #crane (Grus grus) populations in #Germany, 2025

Abstract In autumn 2025, an unprecedented mass mortality event was observed among the western migrating subpopulation of Eurasian cranes (Grus grus) in Germany . Systemic infection with highly pathogenic avian influenza virus H5N1 , clade 2.3.4.4b, genotype DI.2.1, was identified as the cause of acute death. The gregarious behavior of cranes at feeding and resting sites likely has contributed to the rapid and massive dissemination of viruses within the crane population. Competing Interest Statement The authors have declared no competing interest. Funder Information Declared European Union, 101084171 Source: Link: https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.64898/2025.12.08.692485v1 ____

Seasonal #influenza - #Global #situation (#WHO, Dec. 10 '25, excerpts)

10 December 2025 Situation at a glance Seasonal influenza (‘the flu’) is an acute respiratory infection caused by influenza viruses that circulate globally and year-round. It can cause illness ranging from mild to severe , sometimes resulting in hospitalization or death. Seasonal influenza activity has increased globally in recent months, with an increased proportion of seasonal influenza A(H3N2) viruses being detected. This rise coincides with the onset of winter in the northern hemisphere and an increase in acute respiratory infections caused by influenza and other respiratory viruses typically observed at this time of year. Although global activity remains within expected seasonal ranges , early increases and higher activity than typical at this time of year have been observed in some regions. Seasonal influenza viruses, including A(H3N2) viruses, continually evolve over time. Since August 2025, there has been a rapid increase of A(H3N2) J.2...

#Human #Infection with Avian #Influenza #H10N3 Virus, #China, 2024

Abstract We describe the clinical symptoms and epidemiologic characteristics of a patient infected with avian influenza A(H10N3) virus in Guangxi Province , China , in December 2024. Whole-genome sequencing showed that the virus was highly homologous to a virus from Yunnan Province . H10 subtype viruses should be monitored for potential zoonotic or reassortant events. {From Emerging Infectious Diseases Journal, US CDC.} Sources: Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41237415/ ____

Innate #antiviral readiness drives the expansion of protective T #stem cell memory against #influenza

Abstract The development of T-cell-based influenza vaccines relies on eliciting broad CD8+ T-cell immunity, wherein T stem cell-like memory (TSCM) cells serve as the ultimate long-lived reservoir for immune memory, thereby unlocking the potential for durable protection against viral drift and shift. However, the specific immunological cues that drive the robust expansion and functional preservation of this self-renewing, multipotent subset remain unknown. Here, utilizing multi-omic systems immunology in a pediatric cohort immunized with live attenuated influenza vaccine , we identified the determinants governing the expansion of influenza virus-reactive TSCM cells . We show that a pre-existing state of innate antiviral readiness , defined by a plasmacytoid dendritic cell-associated type I interferon signature , is the requisite condition for a robust TSCM expansion. Mechanistically, this baseline innate state enhances antigen priming and enforces a qualitative divergence in T-cel...

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

{Greylag Goose} {Mallards} A Greylag Goose, two Mallards in Aqmola Region. Source: Link: https://wahis.woah.org/#/in-review/7093 ____

#Estonia - #Influenza A #H5N1 viruses of high pathogenicity (Inf. with) (non-poultry including wild birds) (2017-) - Immediate notification

The outbreak affecting captive birds was in an establishment with 4 laying hens , 1 cock and 1 runner duck located in Harju county, Viimsi parish . The outbreak was confirmed on the 9th of December 2025 based on analysis performed tracheal and brain samples at the National Centre for Laboratory Research and Risk Assessment, and in accordance with the case definition. Measures were only applied in the outbreak establishment. Based on a risk assessment, no restricted zone was established around the affected establishment in accordance with Article 21(3)(g). The establishment concerned kept only 6 captive birds and they had no direct or indirect contact with poultry or other establishments keeping captive birds . In the establishment, all captive birds were already dead. No culling was necessary. Preliminary cleaning and disinfection was applied. Source: Link: https://wahis.woah.org/#/in-review/7092 ____

Foraging #ecology drives viral community structure in #NZ's aquatic #birds

Abstract Wild migratory birds play a major role in the global spread of viruses, yet the diversity, host range and transmission patterns of viruses harboured by migratory species in Aotearoa/New Zealand remain largely unknown . This knowledge gap is critical given New Zealand's position along major migratory flyways spanning Oceania, Antarctica and east Asia , where understanding viral diversity is key to assessing the risk of viral introductions such as highly pathogenic avian influenza virus and viral dispersal across these regions. To address this, we conducted the first large-scale metatranscriptomic survey of wild birds from New Zealand and its subantarctic islands , collecting 1,348 samples from 31 host species spanning four avian orders . We identified 118 avian viruses from 17 families , including 107 novel species , greatly expanding our knowledge of avian viral diversity. Viral communities differed significantly by host order and foraging behaviour, with scavenger birds...

Distinctive viral #genome #signatures are linked to repeated #mammalian #spillovers of #H5N1 in North #America

Abstract Highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 rarely infects mammals. In 2024-2025, however, genotypes B3.13 and D1.1 caused two independent spillovers into U.S. dairy cattle . By analysing 26,930 complete H5N1 genomes from global surveillance , we identified 73 major viral groups , most of which show continent-specific distribution in Europe, Asia, Africa , and North America . North American viruses exhibit higher genetic diversity in specific viral segments , including variants potentially associated with mammalian adaptation . Both dairy-cattle-associated B3.13 and D1.1 genotypes originate from the same geographic macro-area , suggesting a possible regional hotspot where avian-mammalian interfaces may facilitate viral adaptation. Our findings place the U.S. outbreaks in a global framework and indicate that North American H5N1 may be predisposed to cross-species transmission. Competing Interest Statement The authors have declared no competing interest. Funder Information Decl...

Evolutionary trajectories and #zoonotic #potential of a #PB2 #mutation triad (I147T, K339T, and A588T) in avian #influenza viruses

Abstract Efficient replication of influenza A viruses (IAVs) requires balanced activities of hemagglutinin (HA), neuraminidase (NA), and the RNA polymerase complex, whose functions are strongly influenced by PB2 mutations . We previously revealed three distinct evolutionary pathways for PB2 mutations, with two pathways leading to the emergence of viral strains responsible for human seasonal infections and the 2009 pandemic , and a third pathway giving rise to H5Nx highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses (HPAIVs) defined by a triad of mutations (I147T, K339T, and A588T) that occasionally spill over to humans . Here, we investigated the zoonotic risk posed by this triad and elucidated its evolutionary relationship with HA, NA, and vaccination . Recombinant PR8 and clade 2.3.2.1c H5N1 viruses carrying the triad replicated efficiently in embryonated chicken eggs and had moderate replication efficiency in mammalian cells ; moreover, mice infected with these viral strains exhibited m...

#Korea (Rep. of) - #Influenza A #H5N6 viruses of high pathogenicity (Inf. with) (non-poultry including wild birds) (2017-) - Immediate notification

A Common Teal in Jeollanam-do Region. Source: Link: https://wahis.woah.org/#/in-review/7034 ____

#UK - High pathogenicity avian #influenza #H5N1 viruses (#poultry) (Inf. with) - Immediate notification

{England, Kent} Laying flock with around 31K birds. Samples taken were positive for HPAI H5N1. Birds presented clinical signs prior to testing. {England, Suffolk} Backyard flock. Samples taken were positive for HPAI H5N1. Birds presented clinical signs of AI prior to testing. Source: Link: https://wahis.woah.org/#/in-review/7081 ____

#Safety and immunogenicity of a live-attenuated #chikungunya virus #vaccine in #adolescents: final results from a ... phase 3 trial in endemic areas of #Brazil

Summary Background Chikungunya outbreaks have recurred in Brazil since 2014 . Building on earlier 28-day post-vaccination data , we now report 12-month safety and immunogenicity results of the VLA1553 vaccine in Brazilian adolescents. Methods In this double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled, phase 3 trial , generally healthy adolescents aged 12–17 years were recruited at ten sites across Brazil. Individuals were excluded for immune-mediated or chronic arthritis or arthralgia, who are are immunologically compromised, or any recent live vaccines. Random allocation via simple block randomisation in a 2:1 ratio was stratified by baseline IgG and IgM serostatus by ELISA to receive a single intramuscular dose of VLA1553 or placebo . Assessed in the per-protocol population 28 days after vaccination, the primary endpoint was the proportion of baseline seronegative participants with chikungunya virus neutralising antibody levels assessed by a serum dilution achieving a 50% plaque redu...

Pre-existing cross-reactive #immunity to highly pathogenic avian #influenza 2.3.4.4b #H5N1 virus in the #USA

Abstract The unprecedented 2.3.4.4b. A(H5N1) outbreak in dairy cattle, poultry, and spillover to humans in the United States (US) poses a major public health threat. Population immunity is a critical component of influenza pandemic risk assessment . We assessed the pre-existing cross-reactive immunity to 2.3.4.4b A(H5N1) viruses and analyzed 1794 sera from 723 people (0.5–88 yrs) in multiple US geographic regions during 2021–2024. Pre-existing neutralizing and hemagglutinin (HA)-head- binding antibodies to A(H5N1) were low , but there were substantial cross-reactive binding antibodies to N1 neuraminidase (NA) of 2.3.4.4b A(H5N1). Antibodies to group 1 HA stalk were also prevalent and increased with age . A(H1N1)pdm09 infection and influenza vaccination did not induce neutralizing antibodies to A(H5N1) viruses but induced significant rise of functional NA inhibition (NAI) antibodies to N1 of 2.3.4.4b A(H5N1), and group 1 HA stalk antibodies . Moreover, pre-pandemic stockpiled 2.3....