#Coronavirus Disease Research #References (AMEDEO, August 1 '26)

 

Antiviral Res

1. WANG K, Gibbons JS, Bisht N, Reyes AC, et al
   SARS-CoV-2 resistance pathways to EDP-235.
   Antiviral Res. 2026;253:106493.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   

   
   Emerg Infect Dis

2. KIM S, Chun BC
   Kudoa septempunctata Parasite-Associated Foodborne Disease Outbreaks, South Korea, 2015-2024.
   Emerg Infect Dis. 2026;32:1373-1375.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   
3. XU Y, Xiong W, Huang X, Cowling BJ, et al
   Respiratory Syncytial Virus Suppression through Public Health and Social Measures, Hong Kong, China, 2020-2023.
   Emerg Infect Dis. 2026;32:1315-1318.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   

   
   Int J Infect Dis

4. SPILIOPOULOU A, Betaania L, Giannopoulou I, Leonidou L, et al
   Candidemia in Post-COVID Era: Increasing incidence of endemic fluconazole-resistant Candida parapsilosis and Candidozyma auris.
   Int J Infect Dis. 2026 Jul 30:109018. doi: 10.1016/j.ijid.2026.109018.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   
5. GARNERET P, Gaubert G, Nauleau S, Franke F, et al
   Social Deprivation and Remoteness as Determinant of COVID-19 Hospitalisations and Severity: an Area-Level Analysis in South-Eastern France.
   Int J Infect Dis. 2026 Jul 30:109013. doi: 10.1016/j.ijid.2026.109013.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   
6. GRIMM K, Hodel EM, Gasser L, Schuller S, et al
   Feasibility of studying respiratory infection transmission in a Swiss household cohort: Findings from the BEready ("Bern, get ready") study.
   Int J Infect Dis. 2026 Jul 29:109019. doi: 10.1016/j.ijid.2026.109019.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   
7. RAHAJAMANANA VL, Rabezanahary H, Arroyave A, Wantchecon A, et al
   Dynamics of neutralizing antibodies against enterovirus D68 in adults during the COVID-19 pandemic.
   Int J Infect Dis. 2026 Jul 27:109008. doi: 10.1016/j.ijid.2026.109008.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   

   
   J Med Virol

8. MORETTO SL, Cassela PLCS, Trigo GL, Lozovoy MAB, et al
   Investigation of PDCD1 Gene Polymorphisms and Haplotypes in COVID-19 Severity and Outcome in a Brazilian Population.
   J Med Virol. 2026;98:e71090.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   
9. PASITTUNGKUL S, Vichaiwattana P, Poovorawan Y, Wanlapakorn N, et al
   Post-Pandemic Resurgence of Respiratory Syncytial Virus in Thailand: Molecular Epidemiology and Sublineage Turnover Among Children, 2023-2025.
   J Med Virol. 2026;98:e71089.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   
10. FRASCA F, Maddaloni L, D'Auria A, Fracella M, et al
    SARS-CoV-2 mRNA Vaccination Induces Neutralizing Antibodies and Type I IFN Changes in People Living With HIV.
    J Med Virol. 2026;98:e71067.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
11. HUANG Y, Gao Y, Li Y, Song G, et al
    Application of a Super-Multiplex Microfluidic qPCR System for Detection of Respiratory Pathogens in Patients With Influenza-Like Illness.
    J Med Virol. 2026;98:e71072.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    

    
    J Virol

12. XU J, Chan H-w, Yang R, Wu X-R, et al
    Nicotine and cotinine enhance SARS-CoV-2 entry through distinct but complementary mechanisms in human respiratory epithelial cells.
    J Virol. 2026 Jul 31:e0097126. doi: 10.1128/jvi.00971.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
13. LIANG X, Chi X, Deng X
    Coronavirus Nsp15 endoribonuclease: linking viral RNA regulation to immune evasion and viral fitness.
    J Virol. 2026 Jul 31:e0170025. doi: 10.1128/jvi.01700.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
14. ZENG W, Zhang G, Ma H, Xiong L, et al
    ACE2-fused nanobody targeting a cryptic RBD epitope broadly neutralizes SARS-like viruses.
    J Virol. 2026 Jul 30:e0060826. doi: 10.1128/jvi.00608.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
15. HE L, Su Y-WN, Zhang F, Moustafa IM, et al
    Recovery of proofreading-impaired SARS-CoV-2 reveals a mutator phenotype and an ExoN activity threshold for viability.
    J Virol. 2026 Jul 29:e0080926. doi: 10.1128/jvi.00809.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
16. DWIVEDI S, Kar S, Horton AP, Gollihar JD, et al
    ViralMap: predicting features in viral proteins from primary sequence.
    J Virol. 2026 Jul 28:e0075726. doi: 10.1128/jvi.00757.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    

    
    Nature

17. CHEN E
    Can long COVID be prevented? Two drugs finally show promise.
    Nature. 2026 Jul 29. doi: 10.1038/d41586-026-02341.
    PubMed        

#Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses Research #References (AMEDEO, August 1 '26)

 

Arch Virol

1. LEE K, An SH, Heo GB, Lee YJ, et al
   Genomic characterization of H6N1 avian influenza viruses from wild birds and domestic ducks in the republic of Korea and Mongolia (2022-2024).
   Arch Virol. 2026;171:238.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   

   
   Biochem Soc Trans

2. MADDUMAGE JC, Dow GR, Murdolo LD, Liwei Leong S, et al
   Deciphering influenza B virus-derived peptides and their presentation by HLA class I molecules.
   Biochem Soc Trans. 2026;54:1021-1052.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   

   
   BMC Pediatr

3. IBRAHIM HM, Mansour MGE, Zaitoun R, Rushdy M, et al
   HLA-B class I allele associations with neurological complications in pediatric SARS-CoV-2 infection: a retrospective observational study.
   BMC Pediatr. 2026;26:691.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   

   
   Epidemiol Infect

4. NAQVI OH, Wendelboe AM, Beasley WH, Tyungu DL, et al
   Epidemiological characteristics of paediatric COVID-19 and influenza co-infections in the United States, 2020-2024.
   Epidemiol Infect. 2026;154:e105.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   

   
   J Immunol

5. CHEUNG MW, Choi JD, Stempak JM, Chandran V, et al
   T cell immunity to SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in inflammatory bowel disease patients treated with anti-cytokine biologics.
   J Immunol. 2026;215:vkag173.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   
6. NELSON SA, Rattan A, Marathe B, White CL, et al
   Distinct kinetic features of innate and adaptive responses in influenza A versus influenza B-infected mice.
   J Immunol. 2026;215:vkag196.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   

   
   J Infect

7. SANZ-MUNOZ I, Ciria-Gil CJ, Hernandez M, Santiago C, et al
   Pre-existing and Cross-Reactive Immunity to Avian Influenza H5N1 in Humans: Implications for Pandemic Risk and Vaccine Strategies.
   J Infect. 2026 Jul 30:106822. doi: 10.1016/j.jinf.2026.106822.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   

   
   J Virol

8. MCCAFFREY KD, Esfahani BG, Elbehairy MA, McCormick AL, et al
   Molecular basis for protection and cross-protection by human antibodies targeting the parainfluenza virus hemagglutinin-neuraminidase protein.
   J Virol. 2026 Jul 31:e0050226. doi: 10.1128/jvi.00502.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   
9. CHEN X, Yan J, Li M, Liu H, et al
   c-Fos enhances influenza virus replication by stabilizing the M2 protein and promoting autophagosome accumulation.
   J Virol. 2026 Jul 27:e0091626. doi: 10.1128/jvi.00916.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   

   
   JAMA

10. BAUDIN F, Pouyau R, Subtil F, Jarrasse C, et al
    Prone Positioning in Infants With Acute Bronchiolitis: The PROPOSITIS Randomized Clinical Trial.
    JAMA. 2026;336:315-322.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    

    
    Pediatrics

11. YI Y, Edwards F, Wakefield S, Wildeman C, et al
    Child Welfare System Involvement in the United States: 2016-2023.
    Pediatrics. 2026;158:e2025074635.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
12. MORENO-PEREZ D, Catalan-Fernandez E, Croche-Santander B, Rios-Hurtado JM, et al
    Nirsevimab and Hospitalization for Lower Respiratory Tract Infection During the Second Season.
    Pediatrics. 2026;158:e2025075562.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    

    
    PLoS Comput Biol

13. XU R, Ghaffarzadegan N, Zhang G, Aoki G, et al
    Population-level behavioral and structural drivers of COVID-19 vaccine uptake in the US.
    PLoS Comput Biol. 2026;22:e1013988.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
14. BEAULIEU M, Hoze N, Vieillefond V, Goetschy T, et al
    Quantitative analysis of massive SARS-CoV-2 testing in the community in France in 2021-2022 reveals the associations of variant, vaccination, and age with viral dynamics in symptomatic individuals.
    PLoS Comput Biol. 2026;22:e1013811.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    

    
    PLoS One

15. ZHU K, Barberio J, Tsao N, Mor A, et al
    Trends in the incidence of asthma, atopic dermatitis, and multiple sclerosis before, during, and after the COVID-19 pandemic in a US claims database.
    PLoS One. 2026;21:e0355103.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
16. BRANNON GE, Chatterjee K, Jang CY, Markham Shaw C, et al
    Perceptions of Spanish-language COVID-19 video messaging among the Hispanic community: A qualitative study in the United States of America.
    PLoS One. 2026;21:e0339634.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
17. NELSON AK, Everett M, Smith R, Rogers L, et al
    Death by incarceration: Detention duration, overdose, and COVID-19 in Los Angeles County Jails, 2008-2023.
    PLoS One. 2026;21:e0351332.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
18. CASTRO MONTEIRO F, Luiza C Wuillaume M, Linhares Veloso Filho C, Figueiredo K, et al
    Identifying cluster profiles based on barriers and facilitators to physical activity during COVID-19 confinement: A cross-sectional study using machine learning analysis.
    PLoS One. 2026;21:e0354036.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
19. SUN L, Jiang Z, Chen Y, Han M, et al
    Exploring the mechanism of Shuangyu Granule in regulating immune-inflammatory responses in influenza through UPLC-Orbitrap-MS/MS, GC-MS, and network target analysis.
    PLoS One. 2026;21:e0353259.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
20. ROY SS, Nguyen NT, Zuniga A, Sarhaddi F, et al
    Mission imputable: Effects of missing data processing on infectious disease detection and prognosis.
    PLoS One. 2026;21:e0320105.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
21. ABUSKA D, Dikme O, Dikme O, Yurttas TT, et al
    Age-stratified prognostic performance of hematologic inflammatory indices for 30-day mortality in emergency department patients with PCR-confirmed COVID-19: A cohort study from the pre-vaccination pandemic era.
    PLoS One. 2026;21:e0354809.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
22. CALLAGHAN CW
    Cultural tightness and scientific capacity: A cross-national study of their synergistic and conflicting roles in COVID-19 pandemic outcomes.
    PLoS One. 2026;21:e0330983.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
23. KEBEDE M, Kusheta G, Jemal M, Abdurehman K, et al
    Determinants of parental traditional medicine use for children during COVID-19 in Dire Dawa city administration, Eastern Ethiopia, 2023/24: Mixed community based cross-sectional study design.
    PLoS One. 2026;21:e0354889.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
24. LIM MS, Park C, Lee E, Ko SY, et al
    A multiplex dual-probe RT-LAMP assay for rapid subtype-specific detection of respiratory syncytial virus A and B.
    PLoS One. 2026;21:e0354914.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    

    
    Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A

25. HAN AX, Hulme KD, Russell CA
    The global demand and potential public health impact of oral antiviral treatment stockpile for influenza pandemics.
    Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2026;123:e2524161123.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
26. GERVAIS A, Marchal A, Maillard A, Le Voyer T, et al
    High risk of hypoxemic COVID-19 pneumonia in myasthenia gravis patients with type I IFN autoantibodies.
    Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2026;123:e2518581123.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    

    
    Vaccine

27. LIU B, Li F, Yang Y, Tu H, et al
    In-depth monitoring of host cell proteins in influenza vaccines throughout multi-step purification processes.
    Vaccine. 2026;88:128957.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
28. KOSTANYAN L, Fukase H, Rumyantsev A, Hashizume K, et al
    Immunogenicity, reactogenicity, and safety of an mRNA-based seasonal influenza and SARS-CoV-2 multicomponent vaccine, mRNA-1083, in adults aged >/=50 years in Japan.
    Vaccine. 2026;88:128961.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
29. WEI Z, Feng X, Sun Q, Chen D, et al
    Factors affecting parental practices and attitudes toward influenza vaccination for children in China.
    Vaccine. 2026;88:128988.
    PubMed         Abstract available

Synergistic #antiviral effect of #Asunaprevir and #Ribavirin in combination against Murray Valley #Encephalitis Virus replication

 

Highlights

    • Renilla luciferase-based MVEV sub-genomic replicon was constructed and applied in antiviral drug evaluation.

    • Removal of Stem Loop I from 3’UTR impairs viral genome replication.

    • Asunaprevir and ribavirin exhibit synergistic antiviral activity against MVEV.

    • A single-round MVEV infectious particle platform was developed.

Abstract

Murray Valley encephalitis virus (MVEV) is a mosquito-borne flavivirus known for causing severe neurological diseases in humans. Despite the rising number of reported infections and high mortality rate among hospitalized patients, no antiviral therapies or licensed vaccines are available. To strengthen preparedness against this reemerging virus, we establish a subgenomic replicon (SGR) platform and a complementary single-round infectious particles (SRIPs) production system, using widely circulating genotype 1 (G1) MVEV as backbone. Stem-loop I(SLI) from 3’UTR stands for the major difference among 4 MVEV genotypes and removal of SLI resulted in mild decrease of genome replication. Through screening a mini anti-flavivirus drug library, we identified that asunaprevir (ASV) and ribavirin (RBV) inhibit MVEV infection independently. Combination of ASV and RBV also showed synergistic activity against MVEV. These results underscore the value of the MVEV replicon system as a versatile tool for evaluating antiviral compounds, supporting the potential of ASV and RBV as a combinatorial therapeutic approach.

Source: 

Link: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0166354226001567?via%3Dihub

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A #review of #Bundibugyo virus and the 2026 #outbreak: lessons for #epidemic #preparedness

 

Summary

The ongoing 2026 outbreak of Ebola virus disease caused by Bundibugyo virus (BDBV) in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda has renewed attention to one of the least studied human-pathogenic orthoebolaviruses. Since its discovery in western Uganda in 2007, only two recognised outbreaks of BDBV had been reported, limiting opportunities to define the epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, clinical spectrum, and optimal management of BDBV or to develop species-specific countermeasures. The current outbreak, declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern by WHO on May 17, 2026, has also exposed the gap between scientific innovation and operational readiness. Although pan-filovirus diagnostics, investigational vaccines, therapeutics, and adaptive clinical trial platforms are now available, their deployment has been constrained by delayed diagnosis, limited access to species-inclusive diagnostics, insecurity due to conflict, population displacement, and fragile health systems. In this Review, we synthesise evidence on BDBV from its discovery to the current 2026 outbreak, highlighting advances in epidemiology, clinical management, diagnostics, vaccines, therapeutics, and preparedness. More broadly, the outbreak shows that scientific innovation alone is insufficient; its public health impact depends on integrated, species-inclusive systems capable of rapidly detecting, evaluating, and responding to outbreaks caused by any human-pathogenic Orthoebolavirus spp.

Source: 

Link: https://www.thelancet.com/journals/laninf/article/PIIS1473-3099(26)00414-7/fulltext

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History of Mass Transportation: Electroputere V54 Tram in Bucharest

 {Click on Image to Enlarge}

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By Șerban Lăcrițeanu - https://bucurestiulmeudrag.ro/profil/slacriteanu/, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=125584381

Source: 

Link: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electroputere#/media/File:Electroputere_V54_on_Pantelimon_Avenue.jpg

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#USA, #Hawaii: Dept. of Health Confirms Fourth Case Of #Cyclosporiasis (DOH, August 1 '26)

 

    HONOLULU — The Hawaiʻi Department of Health (DOH) has confirmed a case of cyclosporiasis in a member of the military based in Hawaiʻi.

    The individual traveled internationally before returning to Hawaiʻi prior to getting sick. 

    Based on their travel history, symptom onset and the known incubation period it is not known at this time if the infection was acquired in Hawaiʻi or while traveling. 

    However, at this point in the DOH investigation, there is no evidence that this case changes the risk of cyclosporiasis in Hawaiʻi. 

    The assessment of risk of cyclosporiasis to the public in Hawaiʻi remains low.

    This case brings the total number of confirmed cyclosporiasis cases reported in Hawaiʻi in 2026 to four. 

    The first case involved a non-resident visitor whose infection also was acquired outside of Hawaiʻi. The next two cases involved two Hawaiʻi residents who traveled internationally.

    Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis. Eggs of the parasite shed in the feces of infected persons must mature outside the host, in the environment, before they become infectious to another person. 

    People become infected by consuming food or water contaminated with the parasite. In the United States, outbreaks have most often been linked to certain fresh produce items. The illness is not typically spread directly from person to person.

    Symptoms usually begin about one week after exposure but can appear anywhere from two days to two weeks later. 

    The most common symptom is frequent, watery diarrhea. Other symptoms may include loss of appetite, weight loss, stomach cramps or bloating, nausea, increased gas, fatigue and, less commonly, vomiting or low-grade fever. Without treatment, symptoms may last for several weeks or longer and can come and go.

    The DOH routinely investigates reportable diseases to identify potential sources of infection and monitors for any signs of local transmission.

    People can help reduce their risk of cyclosporiasis by:

        ° Washing hands thoroughly with soap and water before preparing or eating food and after using the restroom.

        ° Washing fresh fruits and vegetables under running water before eating, cutting or cooking them.

        ° Following safe food handling practices when preparing meals.

        ° Seeking medical care if they experience prolonged or severe diarrhea, particularly after recent travel or eating fresh produce from an area associated with an outbreak.

    Cyclosporiasis is treatable with prescription antibiotics. Individuals experiencing persistent diarrhea should contact their healthcare provider. Healthcare providers who suspect cyclosporiasis are encouraged to report cases to the DOH and submit appropriate specimens to commercial laboratories for testing.

    The DOH will continue to monitor for additional cases and work closely with healthcare providers and public health partners to protect the health of Hawaiʻi residents and visitors.

(...)

Source: 

Link: https://health.hawaii.gov/news/newsroom/doh-confirms-fourth-case-of-cyclosporiasis/

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#Thrombotic and #cerebrovascular events following #SARS-CoV-2 #vaccination: an umbrella #review of systematic reviews and meta-analyses

 

Abstract

Rare thrombotic and cerebrovascular events have been reported after SARS-CoV-2 vaccination, raising safety concerns. This umbrella review synthesizes evidence from 19 systematic reviews and meta-analyses examining thrombotic outcomes, including acute ischemic stroke and cerebral venous sinus thrombosis, across different vaccine platforms. Methodological quality was assessed using AMSTAR-2, and findings were synthesized by outcome and platform. Evidence consistently shows that thrombotic and cerebrovascular events following vaccination are rare. mRNA vaccines (BNT162b2, mRNA-1273) were not associated with increased risk beyond background population rates. Adenoviral vector vaccines (ChAdOx1 nCoV-19, Ad26.COV2.S) were linked to a rare syndrome of vaccine-induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia, most commonly presenting as cerebral venous sinus thrombosis in younger adults. Evidence for whole-virus vaccines was limited but did not indicate consistent safety concerns. Across all platforms, thrombotic risk was substantially lower than that from SARS-CoV-2 infection. Overall, vaccination benefits outweigh risks, highlighting the importance of ongoing surveillance and transparent communication.

Source: 

Link: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41541-026-01550-5

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Expedition #cruises, island hopping, and #zoonotic #risk: #governance and operational lessons from the MV #Hondius #Andes hantavirus outbreak

 

Abstract

The Andes orthohantavirus outbreak linked to the MV Hondius expedition cruise illustrates how a probable land-based zoonotic exposure can become a multinational public health event when it intersects with enclosed shipboard environments, delayed clinical recognition, remote navigation, medical evacuation, and international passenger dispersal. Although hantavirus infection is classically associated with exposure to infected rodents or contaminated environments, Andes virus is exceptional among orthohantaviruses because limited person-to-person transmission has been documented, particularly after close and prolonged contact. This Perspective uses the MV Hondius outbreak as an analytical case study to identify governance and operational gaps in expedition-era travel medicine. Existing International Health Regulations, WHO ship-event guidance, and ECDC recommendations provide essential foundations for coordination, notification, isolation, and contact tracing; however, this outbreak exposed expedition-specific gaps in safe port access, medical evacuation, onboard recognition of nonspecific febrile illness, diagnostic escalation, passenger traceability, and post-disembarkation monitoring. We therefore propose an accountability-oriented One Health preparedness model that operationalizes existing guidance through route-level risk assessment, exposure-history assessment, onboard syndromic surveillance, isolation and telemedicine triggers, reference-laboratory pathways, port-of-call agreements, auditable passenger and excursion records, and cross-border post-travel monitoring. The central lesson is not that expedition cruises, birdwatching, or ecological tourism are inherently unsafe, but that their expanding geographic reach requires binding, auditable, and expedition-specific outbreak protocols before passengers embark.

Source: 

Link: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/medicine/articles/10.3389/fmed.2026.1892006/full

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#USA, #Wastewater Data for Avian #Influenza #H5 (CDC, July 31 '26)

 

{Excerpt}

(...)

A(H5) detections in the past week

Time Period: July 19, 2026 - July 25, 2026

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

    -- No Detection: 427 site(s) (99.1%)

    -- No samples: 81 site(s)

{Click on Image to Enlarge}

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(...)

Source: 

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

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#USA, #Oregon: Avoid #contact with #bats to reduce #rabies exposure risk (Dept. of Health, July 31 '26)

 

July 30, 2026

    PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) are urging people to prevent exposure to rabies while highlighting the importance of bats and other wildlife to the state’s ecosystems.

    So far, 22 bats have tested positive for rabies in 2026, according to OHA data. That means the state has matched – and is poised to surpass – its record for the number of bats that test positive for rabies in a single year. Bats have carried the rabies virus in their populations for thousands of years and are well known to carry rabies today, but generally at a very low level. Nevertheless, they account for the most human exposures to the virus more than any other species in the U.S.

    The highest number of animals testing positive for rabies since 2000 was in 2006, when 22 bats and two foxes were found to be carrying the disease. In 2023, 20 bats tested positive for the virus.

    Emilio DeBess, DVM, public health veterinarian at OHA’s Public Health Division, said the more contact someone has with bats, the higher the risk of exposure to rabies.

    “Unfortunately, when people find a dead or dying bat, they may pick it up with their hands because they want to help it, or maybe they’re just curious,” DeBess said. “When a bat or other wild animal is sick or dying with rabies, there’s an increased chance they will bite or transmit the virus in other ways.”

    Colin Gillin, DVM, ODFW state wildlife veterinarian, agrees that bats and other wildlife rarely bite people but may do so if they are sick or feel threatened. Oregon bats, in particular, eat only insects—about 1,000 insects every hour—and avoid people.

    “Bats provide important ecosystem services in Oregon, but also globally with insect control, seed dispersal, and pollination of specific plants, supporting agriculture and forest systems,” Gillin said. “And like many animals that can carry disease, bats can also prevent or suppress disease by reducing mosquitoes and other vectors that carry human and animal pathogens.”

    ° What to do if you find a bat

        § Bats are protected wildlife, which makes it illegal to harm or keep them. If you see a bat that appears to be sick:

            * Stay calm, do not touch it, and keep people and pets away.

            * When the sick or dead bat is indoors, do not release the bat. It may have exposed someone or a pet to rabies. If it is safe to do so, place a container or box over the bat.

           * When the sick or dead bat is outdoors and may have exposed someone to rabies, cover it with a box or bucket to keep it in place, if safe to do so. Finding a dead bat does not require any action unless someone was bitten or scratched before the bat died.

            * Contact your local health authority or veterinarian for your area right away to discuss potential exposures to humans or pets.

            * If there are multiple sick or dead bats observed in an area, report it to ODFW.

        § When a person or pet has been bitten or scratched by an animal that may have rabies, report this exposure immediately to your local animal regulation services or local public health authority. Seek medical care immediately from a medical provider or veterinarian.

            * Teach children to avoid all contact with bats and other wildlife.

            * Avoid bats seen in the wild, such as while hiking.

            * Make sure your dog or cats' vaccinations are up to date, whether they are indoor or outdoor pets.

            * Unvaccinated pets that come into contact with a bat may be quarantined for up to four months, or euthanized.

            * Protect your home from bats by covering vents, chimneys, and other entry points with screens.

            * If you have roosting (nesting) bats living in your attic or other areas of your house, call a wildlife control operator (WCO). ODFW is unable to respond to homeowner requests for bat removal.

(...)

Source: 

Link: https://www.oregon.gov/oha/ERD/Pages/Avoid-contact-with-bats-to-reduce-rabies-exposure-risk.aspx

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#UK, Sharp rise in #cyclospora #infections linked to #Mexico #travel (UKHSA, July 31 '26)

 

    The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has published new data showing a sharp rise in cyclospora infections among travellers returning from Mexico.

    UKHSA is advising all travellers to take precautions when travelling abroad including maintaining good food and water hygiene to reduce their risk of infection.

    Cyclospora is a parasite that causes explosive diarrhoea. Contaminated food specifically herbs, salad and soft fruit are common sources of outbreaks and infections. Infection is acquired via consumption of contaminated food. Cyclospora doesn’t naturally occur in the UK and there is no risk of spread from person to person.

    Symptoms of infection can include frequent watery diarrhoea, abdominal cramping, bloating, nausea, flatulence, low-grade fever, loss of appetite and weight loss. While cyclosporiasis is usually mild and most people improve typically in a few days without any treatment, infections can be more serious or prolonged in people who are immunocompromised and antibiotics may be prescribed.

    The latest data, published today, shows that 67 cases have been reported in returning travellers in England (30 cases) Wales and (10 cases) Scotland (27 cases) between 30 April and 15 July 2026; a sharp rise this year when compared to the annual average of 93 cases recorded between 2022 and 2025.

    Travel information is available for 52 out of the 67 cases; of these, 48 reported travel to Mexico, with one also reporting travel to the USA. One further case reported travel to the USA only, and one to Kenya.

    Among those who travelled to Mexico, cases reported staying at a range of different hotels in the Riviera Maya and Cancún regions and consuming a variety of food and drink as part of all-inclusive holiday packages. Further investigations around the cases are ongoing.

    UKHSA anticipates a continued rise in travel-associated cases linked to increased summer travel to Mexico and a potential increase in cases linked to travel to the USA, where a widespread outbreak has been reported.

    Dr Philip Veal, Consultant in Travel Health at UKHSA, said:

        ''We have recently detected a rise in Cyclospora infections among travellers returning from Mexico. These infections are caused by a parasite and can affect the stomach and intestines.

        ''Travellers to Mexico and other areas where the infection is more common can reduce their risk by following good food and water hygiene measures, including drinking bottled water and eating thoroughly cooked food, even when staying in high-end all-inclusive resorts. We also advise avoiding certain foods such as fresh uncooked berries and herbs, unpeeled fruit and salad items.

        ''If you develop symptoms after returning from travel, such as watery diarrhoea, loss of appetite, weight loss, stomach cramps or pain, bloating, increased wind, nausea, fatigue or other flu-like symptoms, please seek medical attention and inform your healthcare professional of your travel history.

        ''The TravelHealthPro website has more information on the steps you can take to keep yourself and your family well.

(...)

Source: 

Link: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/sharp-rise-in-cyclospora-infections-linked-to-mexico-travel

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Seasonal #surveillance in #humans in 2026 for West Nile virus (#WNV) (ECDC, July 31 '26): 158 cases so far of which 94 from #Italy

 

{Summary}

Week 31, 2026 | Produced on 30 July 2026 at 12:00, based on data submitted up until and including 29 July 2026.

Current situation

    ° Since the beginning of the 2026 transmission season, and as at 29 July, 49 areas affected by West Nile virus (WNV) have been identified in seven countries across Europe.

    ° These areas are located in: 

        § Italy (30), 

        § Greece (eight), 

        § Romania (four), 

        § France (two), 

        § North Macedonia (two), 

        § Spain (two) and 

        § Germany (one).

    ° The seven countries have reported 158 locally acquired human cases of WNV infection: 

        § Italy has reported 94, 

        § Greece 42, 

        § North Macedonia seven, 

        § Spain seven, 

        § Romania five, 

        § France two and 

        § Germany one case.

    ° This week, 14 areas are reported as affected for the first time this season. The affected areas identified as at 29 July 2026 are listed in Table 1 and shown in Map 1 below.

(...)

{Click on Image to Enlarge}

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{In Yellow, areas already affected since the beginning of the season.}

{In Red, areas newly affected this week.}

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Source: 

Link: https://www.ecdc.europa.eu/en/west-nile-fever/surveillance-and-disease-data/disease-data-ecdc

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Pre-existing and Cross-Reactive #Immunity to Avian #Influenza #H5N1 in #Humans: Implications for #Pandemic #Risk and Vaccine Strategies

 

Highlights

    ° Evidence of cross-reactive antibodies to H5N1 in humans.

    ° Seasonal influenza may induce partial H5N1 cross-protection.

    ° H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b shows expanded host range and spread.

    ° Role of viral glycoproteins in immune cross-reactivity.

    ° Implications of baseline immunity for H5N1 pandemic risk.

Abstract

Due to the continuous evolution of Influenza A viruses (IAVs), novel strains with efficient human-to-human transmission may emerge and cause future pandemics. Among these, highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 remains a major concern because of its impact on wildlife, livestock, and human health. The widespread circulation of H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b, detected in hundreds of bird species and numerous mammals worldwide, highlights important changes in viral ecology and transmission, increasing its zoonotic and pandemic potential. This review summarizes current evidence on cross-reactive and cross-protective immunity to H5N1 in humans, focusing primarily on humoral immune responses. We examine the presence of pre-existing H5N1-reactive antibodies in individuals without known exposure and discuss how previous seasonal influenza infection or vaccination may contribute to their development. Particular attention is given to antibodies targeting conserved regions of hemagglutinin (HA), especially the stalk domain, as well as neuraminidase (NA), which may provide heterosubtypic protection. We also evaluate the ability of seasonal influenza vaccines and infections to induce cross-reactive responses against H5N1 and their potential role in partial protection or immune priming. Finally, we review current and emerging H5N1 vaccination strategies, including adjuvanted and mRNA-based platforms, and identify priorities for surveillance, population immunity assessment, and the development of broadly protective influenza vaccines.

Source: 

Link: https://www.journalofinfection.com/article/S0163-4453(26)00148-9/fulltext

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#Zoonotic neglected tropical #diseases at the animal-human interface in the Greater #Mekong Subregion: Two decades of surveillance in #Laos and #Cambodia

 

Abstract

Zoonotic neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) remain a substantial but under-recognised source of human morbidity and economic concern in the Greater Mekong Subregion, particularly in settings characterised by close human–animal interaction. This article represents a narrative synthesis of zoonotic disease research conducted in Laos and Cambodia between 2000 and 2025. The review integrates published literature with findings from long-term surveillance programmes conducted by the authors and collaborating institutions in Laos, with comparative insights from Cambodia, to examine the presence, distribution, diversity, and drivers of zoonotic pathogens at the human–animal interface. Evidence demonstrates the endemic presence of a wide range of parasitic, bacterial, and viral zoonoses, including Taenia solium, Trichinella spp., Streptococcus suis, rickettsial infections, melioidosis, hepatitis E virus, and Japanese encephalitis virus. Some of these pathogens are sustained within smallholder livestock systems, informal slaughter, farming practises, food networks, and wet market environments, where limited diagnostic capacity and fragmented surveillance obscure true disease presence. Surveillance innovations, including abattoir-based sampling, cross-sectoral serological studies, environmental surveillance approaches, and molecular diagnostic tools, have improved pathogen detection but have also highlighted persistent structural and behavioural barriers to control. Socio-cultural practices, occupational exposure, wildlife trade, and economic dependencies reinforce transmission dynamics, indicating that biomedical interventions alone are insufficient. Instead, zoonotic disease persistence reflects the interaction of livestock production systems, environmental conditions, diagnostic limitations, and entrenched human behaviours. This review emphasises the need for integrated One Health approaches that combine strengthened surveillance, improved diagnostics, behavioural interventions, and regional collaboration. Addressing zoonotic NTDs in Laos and Cambodia requires coordinated strategies that account for both biological complexity and socio-economic context to achieve sustainable disease control and improved public health outcomes.

Source: 

Link: https://journals.plos.org/plosntds/article?id=10.1371/journal.pntd.0014584

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Assessment of Quantitative #Genetic #Distances Supports the Separation of #H17N10 and #H18N11 Subtypes of #Influenza a Virus into a Distinct Species

 

Abstract

The taxonomic status of the H17N10 and H18N11 influenza A viruses isolated from bats remains unclear due to the absence of quantitative classification criteria at this taxonomic level. A total of 3328 representative IAV genomes, encompassing all eight protein-coding segments, were analysed. Various genetic distance-based metrics were assessed at the pairwise level, including intra- and intergroup nucleotide distances, dN/dS ratios, and transition/transversion ratios, to facilitate the differentiation of the Alphainfluenzavirus genus into distinct taxa. Pairwise distances for seven of the eight segments (PB2, PB1, PA, NP, M, NA, NS) consistently differentiated the H17–H18 group from H1–H16. Across segments, intergroup nucleotide divergence was consistently above a lower bound of ~25%, with segment-specific values extending to higher levels (up to ~40% in PB2 and PA), while intragroup divergence remained substantially lower. The HA segment did not conform to this pattern, which is consistent with the hypothesis of ancient reassortment. The distribution of pairwise dN/dS values for the PB2, PB1, PA, and NP segments is evidently bimodal. Intergroup comparisons were consistently higher across all segments, whereas intragroup values remained lower. A similar lower boundary of approximately 0.12 was observed across segments, while the upper range of intergroup values varied by gene. Overall, the results support a consistent gene-specific separation pattern. Previously demonstrated absence of reassortment compatibility between bat viruses (H17–H18) and canonical influenza A (H1–H16) viruses indicates that these lineages have evolved independently over an extended period. These consistent genomic patterns provide support for the hypothesis that H17N10 and H18N11 viruses may represent a separate species within the genus Alphainfluenzavirus.

Source: 

Link: https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4915/18/8/838

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Interim #heat #mortality monitoring #report, #England: May and June 2026 (UKHSA, July 30 '26)

{Excerpt}

Published 30 July 2026

Main points

    ° During the May and June 2026 heat events:

        § there were an estimated total of 2,877 heat-associated deaths

        § an estimated 753 heat-associated deaths occurred during the May heat episode

        § an estimated 2,124 heat-associated deaths occurred during the June heat episode

        § the mortality burden is already close to the highest annual totals previously recorded by UKHSA

What you need to know about this report

    ° This interim report focuses on total heat-associated mortality estimates for the May and June 2026 heat episodes.

    ° Detailed demographic, geographic and cause-specific analyses, and comparisons with UKHSA modelled estimates, are outside the scope of this publication.

    ° Final figures of heat-associated deaths during heat episodes in 2026 will be published early in 2027.

Reason for this interim report

    The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) produces the annual heat mortality monitoring report. These are official statistics that provide estimates of heat-associated mortality during heat episodes in England. These estimates support understanding of the public health impacts of hot weather and inform future preparedness and response activities.

    During summer 2026, England experienced 2 notable heat events, one in May and the other in June, both of which were exceptional for different reasons. 

    The May heat event occurred unusually early in the season, with record-breaking temperatures following a period of unseasonably cool weather. 

    The June event was characterised by its intensity and formed part of a broader period of sustained hot weather across Europe. Given the public health significance of these events, and the considerable interest from policymakers, partners and the public, UKHSA has produced this interim report to provide an early assessment of heat-associated mortality. Such early assessments will only be undertaken following extraordinary periods of heat and would not normally be produced for routine heat events.

    Although this report has been produced using the same data sources, analytical methods and quality assurance processes as the annual heat mortality monitoring report, the estimates should be regarded as preliminary and operational in nature. 

    At the time of analysis, mortality data remains incomplete because of routine delays in death registration. Also, estimates for the June heat event are subject to additional uncertainty due to limited availability of non-heat period days for baseline comparison. The definitive assessment of mortality associated with these events will be published in the annual official statistics report in early 2027.

    This interim report focuses on headline estimates of heat-associated mortality. Detailed breakdowns by age, sex, geography, place of death and cause of death are not included because the analysis is based on provisional death registration data that has been adjusted for reporting delays. 

    Registration delays can vary between population groups, causes of death and geographical areas, and applying appropriate delay corrections across all breakdowns would introduce additional complexity and uncertainty into the estimates. 

    In addition, this report does not include comparisons between observed heat-associated mortality and UKHSA modelled mortality estimates. These assessments require more comprehensive analysis and are therefore reserved for the annual publication. More detailed analyses will be provided in the annual official statistics publication once more complete mortality datais available.

    The estimates presented in this report are therefore expected to differ from final numbers as additional death registrations are received and processed in the annual heat mortality monitoring report.  

(...)

Source: 

Link: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/interim-heat-mortality-monitoring-report-england-may-and-june-2026/interim-heat-mortality-monitoring-report-england-may-and-june-2026

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#Losartan and #prednisolone for #postCOVID syndrome and cardiac inflammation: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial

 

Abstract

Persistent cardiac symptoms are common in post-COVID syndrome, even without structural heart disease. Evidence implicates immune dysregulation, endothelial dysfunction and low-grade cardiovascular inflammation. Yet no targeted treatment exists. Myoflame-19 is a multicenter, double-blind clinical trial of 279 participants with inflammatory cardiac involvement defined by cardiovascular magnetic resonance, randomized 1:1 to losartan plus prednisolone (n = 139) or matching placebos (n = 140) for 16 weeks. The modified intention-to-treat population comprised 124 and 122 participants. The primary endpoint, change in left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction, was neutral: between-group difference 0.74 percentage points (pp), 95%CI −0.14 to 1.62, p = 0.10, unpaired t-test; supportive baseline-adjusted ANCOVA 0.99, 95%CI 0.15-1.83, p = 0.021. Among prespecified secondary endpoints, several symptom and imaging measures showed numerical differences favoring intervention, including Average Symptom Score components (modified Canadian Chest Pain Scale −4.8 pp, 95%CI −17.3 to 7.6; NYHA class −8.1 pp, −20.6 to 4.3; Long COVID symptom burden −7.7 pp, −18.9 to 3.6), native T1 and T2 values (native T1 −2.46 ms, −8.35 to 3.42; native T2 −0.31 ms, −1.16 to 0.53), and LV end-diastolic volume ( + 1.45 ml/m², −0.09 to 3.00); however, confidence intervals included the null value and these findings should be regarded as hypothesis-generating.Treatment was safe and well-tolerated. These findings indicate a neutral treatment effect on the primary endpoint. They inform targeted immunomodulation and design of future trials in post-COVID syndrome and inflammatory cardiac involvement. Trial registration: EudraCT 2022-001682-12; NCT05619653.

Source: 

Link: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-026-75991-w

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Estimating the #infection #fatality #ratio of zoonotic avian #influenza viruses with #pandemic potential using an evolutionary epidemiological model

 

Abstract

The risk of zoonotic avian influenza (AIV) infection to humans is challenging to estimate as many human avian influenza virus infections are undetected because infections may be asymptomatic, symptomatic but not tested, and difficult to identify through contact tracing, as human-to-human transmission is rare. We derive equations that consider the evolutionary mechanisms that give rise to pandemics and are parameterized to be consistent with records of past pandemics. We estimate that thousands of human infections with AIVs possessing pandemic potential occur worldwide in an average year. Combining these estimates with H5N1 fatality data, we estimate a historical average infection fatality ratio of 32 (95% uncertainty interval: 9.6-75) deaths per 10,000 infections. This estimate is comparable to SARS-CoV-2 during the recent pandemic and higher than seasonal human influenza. We estimate that preventing animal-to-human influenza spillovers would delay pandemic emergence by several years. Preventing human infections with AIVs is necessary given the high risk of severe outcomes to individuals and to reduce the risk of pandemics occurring in the future.

Competing Interest Statement

The authors have declared no competing interest.

Source: 

Link: https://www.medrxiv.org/content/10.64898/2026.01.21.26344526v3

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