Willow Mill, Albrecht Durer (1496 - 1498)

 

{Click on Image to Enlarge}

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Public Domain.

Source: 

Link: https://www.wikiart.org/en/albrecht-durer/willow-mill-1498

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#Coronavirus Disease Research #References (AMEDEO, September 19 '26)

 

Am J Obstet Gynecol

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   Uptake and outcomes associated with outpatient hysterectomy in Ontario, Canada.
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   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   

   
   Antiviral Res

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   BMJ

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    J Infect

15. ORTEGA-FRANCISCO S, Prudente de Aquino MT, Chiuppesi F, Gutierrez-Franco MA Jr, et al
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16. HARRIS R, Thirard R, Iftikhar H, Middleditch A, et al
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17. BERES SB, Pagnossin D, Olsen RJ, Long SW, et al
    Clinical and population genomic epidemiology of invasive group A streptococcus in Scotland, 2014-2024.
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    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    

    
    J Med Virol

18. YANG T, Zhang R, Qin S, Zheng Y, et al
    Cross-Neutralization Responses and Persistent Symptoms After SARS-CoV-2 Breakthrough Infections.
    J Med Virol. 2026;98:e71153.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
19. TURANLI EE, Yildirim Arslan S, Dinc F
    Clinical Outcomes in Pediatric COVID-19 Across Two Time Periods: The Role of Coinfection, Age, and Inflammatory Markers.
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    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    

    
    J Virol

20. BUGA CC, Valerio M, Alenquer M, Pires de Miranda M, et al
    Insights into the mechanism of action of the bipartite fusion module of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein.
    J Virol. 2026 Sep 15:e0068826. doi: 10.1128/jvi.00688.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    

    
    Nature

21. VARILLY P, Schifferli M, Yang K, Cronan P, et al
    Scalable near-real-time Bayesian phylogenetics for outbreaks with Delphy.
    Nature. 2026 Sep 16. doi: 10.1038/s41586-026-11012.
    PubMed         Abstract available

#Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses Research #References (AMEDEO, September 19 '26)

 

Arch Virol

1. SEO H, Rauf A, Seo SH
   Enhanced induction of inflammatory cytokines in human lung cells infected with highly pathogenic recent H5N1/2024 avian influenza virus.
   Arch Virol. 2026;171:278.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   

   
   BMC Pediatr

2. MAITITUERSUN Y, Su R, Yang G, Taerken AY, et al
   A longitudinal study on differential impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and normalized prevention and control on overweight and obese adolescents in China.
   BMC Pediatr. 2026;26:882.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   
3. O'SHEA TM, McGrath M, Douglas J, Blackwell CK, et al
   Child health-related behaviors, social connectedness, and impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on children born preterm in the ECHO Cohort.
   BMC Pediatr. 2026 Jul 20. doi: 10.1186/s12887-026-07337.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   

   
   Cell

4. WU Q, Seydlitz LM, Iakimov V, Hsu DJ, et al
   Dietary arginine drives codon-dependent MHC class I translation and improves immunity in colon tumorigenesis and respiratory viral infection.
   Cell. 2026;189:6012-6023.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   

   
   Eur J Epidemiol

5. KOSTER EAS, Sluiskes MH, Putter H, Rosendaal FR, et al
   Dynamics of infection, vaccination and excess mortality during the COVID-19 pandemic among older individuals-a nationwide analysis.
   Eur J Epidemiol. 2026;41:869-880.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   
6. LEHNER CT, Anastasova I, Schauberger G, Eberl M, et al
   Increasing incidence of type 1 diabetes in children and adolescents from 2012 to 2021 in Germany: trends before and during the COVID-19 pandemic.
   Eur J Epidemiol. 2026;41:881-892.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   

   
   J Gen Virol

7. ROSS RA, Walsh SK, Montgomery H, Chen H, et al
   Bovine mammary tissues are susceptible to infection by viruses bearing panzootic H5N1 influenza A virus glycoproteins.
   J Gen Virol. 2026;107:002338.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   

   
   J Infect

8. HARRIS R, Thirard R, Iftikhar H, Middleditch A, et al
   Corrigendum to "Immunogenicity and safety of co-administration of a recombinant shingles vaccine with an mRNA COVID-19 or adjuvanted influenza vaccine: A randomised controlled trial" [J Infect 93 (2026) 106784].
   J Infect. 2026;93:106853.
   PubMed        
   
   

   
   PLoS Biol

9. VALENCA-PEREIRA F, Johnson B, DeGregori J, Rincon M, et al
   Does acute inflammation triggered by infection promote cancer progression?
   PLoS Biol. 2026;24:e3003962.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   

   
   PLoS Comput Biol

10. D'AVANZO M, Myint AP, Cacciapaglia G, Hohenegger S, et al
    From sequences to strategies: Early detection of new SARS-CoV-2 variants via genetic distance to reduce hospitalizations.
    PLoS Comput Biol. 2026;22:e1014707.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    

    
    PLoS One

11. YANG SL, Liu MT, Huang HH, Lin SW, et al
    Epidemiology of human RSV in Taiwan, 2018-2024.
    PLoS One. 2026;21:e0357769.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
12. WOLSKO C, Marino E
    Incorporating public values into public health communications: Effects of value affirmations on intentions to vaccinate and trust in the U.S.
    PLoS One. 2026;21:e0356783.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
13. FUENTES K, Jacobson D, Birze A, Cadel L, et al
    Building capacity in health systems with and for caregivers: A photovoice protocol.
    PLoS One. 2026;21:e0358550.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
14. LI Q, Tang Y, Shi Y, Wu Y, et al
    Census-based adolescent depression risk assessment: A novel method and reflections.
    PLoS One. 2026;21:e0357661.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
15. VENKATESAN S, White L, Koo HN, Dickerson J, et al
    Estimating cumulative incidence from partially missing time series of respiratory viral infections.
    PLoS One. 2026;21:e0353681.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
16. AKTAS N, Ersoy A, Oruc A, Ortac H, et al
    Attitudes, perceptions, behaviours, and concerns of patients listed for kidney transplantation during the COVID-19 pandemic.
    PLoS One. 2026;21:e0358328.
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17. AL-MAGABLEH M, Muhaisen AHM, Ateir RM, Abu Eraq SA, et al
    Herbal or conventional medicine? A cross-sectional study of Jordanian university students' preferences for cold and flu treatment.
    PLoS One. 2026;21:e0358179.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
18. SUERDEM A, Zdravkov S, Ivanov MJ
    Beyond deficit and coexistence: Modeling the knowledge-conspiracy-mistrust configuration in public understanding of science.
    PLoS One. 2026;21:e0341946.
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19. GWANZURA TNR, Trepka MJ, Li T, Juhasz L, et al
    COVID-19 mortality risk among people with HIV in Florida before and after the introduction of COVID-19 vaccines: A population-based study.
    PLoS One. 2026;21:e0358543.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
20. DE VERAS BMG, Michelin L, Croda J, Berra TZ, et al
    Burden of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) hospitalizations among adults aged 60 years or more in Brazil: A retrospective surveillance database analysis (2013-2024).
    PLoS One. 2026;21:e0357303.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    

    
    Vaccine

21. HOEN L, Lartey S, Pathirana RD, Cox RJ, et al
    Elucidating the role of pre-existing immunity in mucosal lymphoid architectural dynamics following live attenuated influenza vaccination.
    Vaccine. 2026;92:129139.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
22. GUO J, Dai C, Huang Y, Dai J, et al
    Preclinical toxicity and immunogenicity of a quadrivalent recombinant influenza hemagglutinin vaccine (SCVC101) in rhesus monkeys.
    Vaccine. 2026;92:129137.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
23. LAOHARATTANAHIRUN N, Kiertiburanakul S, Boonnak K, Bruminhent J, et al
    Immunogenicity and safety of high-dose versus standard-dose quadrivalent inactivated influenza vaccine in patients living with HIV: a randomized controlled trial.
    Vaccine. 2026;92:129166.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
24. OSTROWSKY JT, Gellin BG, Cavaleri M, Bresee JS, et al
    Innovation, development, and licensure of improved influenza vaccines: the way forward.
    Vaccine. 2026;92:129135.
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25. ZHOU B, Wang J, Knote C
    Seasonal influenza vaccination coverage and population health burden in Europe during the 2019/2020 and 2021/2022 influenza seasons: an ecological panel analysis using principal-component-adjusted multivariable regression.
    Vaccine. 2026;92:129163.
    PubMed         Abstract available

#Australia, #H5 avian #influenza events in #wildlife (DAFF, as of September 19 '26)

 

{Extract}

(...)

Event data

    ° 583 Positive events

    ° 46,904 Hotline reports

    As of 4pm AEST, 18 September 2026, Australia has 583 confirmed events of H5 bird flu in wildlife.

        § 10 in Western Australia (WA)

        § 303 in South Australia (SA)

        § 40 in New South Wales (NSW)

        § 2 in Queensland (QLD)

        § 184 in Victoria (VIC)

        § 43 in Tasmania (TAS)

        § 1 in Other Territories*

{*} Jervis Bay Territory (Commonwealth jurisdiction)

    As H5 bird flu is confirmed in more locations and species in Australia it will not be necessary to continue testing all species in known areas of transmission, or to test every animal involved in an investigation. 

    Reporting will be targeted to provide a clear picture of the national H5 bird flu situation in wildlife in Australia and key developments.

Data disclaimer

    Data reflects information provided by state and territory governments to the Australian Government as at 17:00 AEST daily. The Australian Government publishes this information for national reporting purposes. Responsibility for the accuracy, completeness and currency of the data remains with the relevant state or territory government. Due to differences in reporting timing, information on the national dashboard may differ from information published on state or territory government websites.

{Click on Image to Enlarge}

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(...)

Source: 

Link: https://www.agriculture.gov.au/campaigns/birdflu/latest-data#h1_bird_flu

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History of Mass Transportation: The Class 2609 Electric Locomotive at Faro station, Portugal

 

{Click on Image to Enlarge}

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By Gunnar1m - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=3933943

Source: 

Link: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/CP_Class_2600#/media/File:Portuguese_Railways_Intercity_train_at_Faro_Train_Station.jpg

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First detection of High pathogenicity Avian #Influenza #H5N1 Clade 2.3.4.4b Genotype EA-2024-DI.2.1 in #Egypt associated with migratory wild birds

 

Abstract

High pathogenicity avian influenza (HPAI) H5 clade 2.3.4.4b is the main driver of the ongoing unprecedented global panzootic. The recently emerged HPAI H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b genotype EA-2024-DI.2.1 has become predominant in Europe, with migratory wild birds, particularly waterfowl, playing a major role in its dissemination. Egypt lies along major Afro-Eurasian migratory flyways, which have historically played an important role in the introduction of emerging H5Nx viruses into the country. In this study, targeted surveillance was conducted on 416 wild birds offered for sale in in live bird markets (LBMs) and roadside trading points in northern Egypt, mainly in Damietta and Port Said. Of these, 118 birds showing mild clinical signs were examined post-mortem and lung and tracheal tissues were collected, while oropharyngeal and cloacal swabs were collected from apparently healthy birds. Avian influenza virus was detected by RT-qPCR in 22 wild birds, all from tissue samples, whereas all swabs from apparently healthy birds were negative. Waterfowl accounted for 16 of the 22 positive birds (72.7%), with Eurasian teal showing the lowest Ct values (21-25). Phylogenetic and whole-genome analyses showed that the sequenced wild-bird viruses clustered within the recently emerged EA-2024-DI.2.1 sub-lineage and were closely related to contemporary European viruses. Compared with the EA-2021-AB genotype currently circulating in Egyptian poultry, the EA-2024-DI.2.1 viruses showed several HA amino acid differences, including A83D, L104M and T195A. These findings provide evidence for the introduction of EA-2024-DI.2.1 into Egypt through migratory wild birds and highlight the importance of continued genomic surveillance at the wild bird domestic poultry interface and antigenic evaluation against vaccines currently used in Egypt.

Competing Interest Statement

The authors have declared no competing interest.

Funder Information Declared

the British Council International Science Partnerships Fund (ISPF), UK, grant number 1203757062

the Science, Technology & Innovation Funding Authority (STDF), Egypt., project ID 50185

Source: 

Link: https://doi.org/10.64898/2026.09.12.750890

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A Decade of Chronic #Hepatitis E #Treatment: #Ribavirin Effectiveness, Safety, and the Association of Torque Teno Virus Load With Treatment Outcomes

 

Highlights

    • Ribavirin achieved 81% SVR in immunocompromised patients with chronic HEV.

    • Adverse events occurred in 56% and led to discontinuation in 17%.

    • Ribavirin dose reduction was associated with failure to achieve SVR.

    • Higher baseline HEV RNA levels were associated with non-SVR.

    • Baseline TTV load showed a nonsignificant trend toward higher levels in non-SVR patients.

Abstract

Background

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) affects immunocompromised individuals. Unlike immunocompetent hosts, who rarely develop chronic infection, up to two-thirds of immunocompromised patients progress to chronicity. Ribavirin is the recommended antiviral therapy, yet predictors of sustained virological response (SVR) remain unclear. Torque Teno Virus (TTV), a marker of immunosuppression, has been proposed as a potential predictor of viral clearance.

Objectives

We evaluated ribavirin treatment outcomes and adverse effects in immunocompromised patients with HEV infection, and assessed whether TTV load predicts SVR.

Study Design

A retrospective cohort study was conducted at the University Medical Center Groningen including solid organ transplant recipients (SOTR) and haematology patients treated with ribavirin for HEV infection between 2010 and 2022. Clinical data and stored serum samples were analysed to determine infection duration and TTV load at treatment initiation and after three months. TTV loads in treated patients were compared with TTV loads of transplant recipients who spontaneously cleared HEV.

Results

Fifty-two patients received ribavirin; 27 had confirmed chronic infection. SVR was achieved in 81% of chronic cases. Adverse events occurred in 56%, leading to dose reduction in 25% and discontinuation in 17%. Non-SVR was associated with ribavirin dose reduction, lower mean daily dose, higher baseline HEV RNA, and lower ALT. Baseline TTV load showed a nonsignificant trend toward higher levels in non-SVR patients. TTV loads did not differ between treated patients and spontaneous clearers.

Conclusions

Ribavirin is effective for chronic HEV, but treatment-limiting toxicity is common. Adequate dosing appears critical for achieving SVR. TTV load did not reliably predict treatment outcome, underscoring the need for further research into immunological and virological predictors of response.

Source: 

Link: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcv.2026.106003

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Detection of Highly Pathogenic Avian #Influenza #H5N1 Virus in #Cat and #Rats during #Outbreak in Backyard #Poultry, #USA, 2025

 

Abstract

In 2025, highly pathogenic avian influenza A(H5N1) virus was detected in a poultry flock in Illinois, USA. Quantitative reverse transcription PCR, sequencing, and histopathology on cat and rat samples from the farm showed multiple positive tissues and high sequence identity to an avian isolate. Small mammals might contribute to H5N1 transmission.

Source: 

Link: https://doi.org/10.3201/eid3210.260418

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#USA, #Wastewater Data for Avian #Influenza #H5 (US CDC, September 18 '26)

 

{Excerpt}

(...)

A(H5) detections in the past week

Time Period: September 06, 2026 - September 12, 2026

    ° A(H5) Detection:  2 site(s) (0.5%)

    ° No Detection: 415 site(s) (99.5%)

    ° No samples: 131 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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Seasonal #surveillance in #humans in 2026 for #WNV - Weekly Report (ECDC, September 18 '26): 1,482 cases so far, of which 652 in #Italy

 

{Summary}

Week 38, 2026 | Published on 18 September 2026, based on data submitted up until and including 17 September 2026.

Current situation

    ° Since the beginning of the 2026 transmission season, and as at 17 September, 180 areas affected by West Nile virus (WNV) have been identified in 16 countries across Europe.

    ° These areas are located in: 

        § Italy (65), 

        § Greece (22), 

        § Romania (22), 

        § France (19), 

        § the Netherlands (13), 

        § Serbia (8), 

        § Croatia (5), 

        § Spain (5), 

        § Belgium (4), 

        § North Macedonia (4), 

        § Germany (3), 

        § Hungary (3), 

        § Austria (2), 

        § Kosovo (2), 

        § Albania (1) and 

        § Cyprus (1).

    ° This week, 19 areas are reported as affected for the first time this season. 

    ° The 16 countries have reported 1 482 locally acquired human cases of WNV infection: 

        § Italy (652 cases), 

        § Greece (355 cases, of which 8 had an unknown place of infection), 

        § Spain (114 cases), 

        § Romania (91 cases), 

        § France (81 cases), 

        § North Macedonia (66 cases), 

        § Serbia (43 cases), 

        § the Netherlands (29 cases), 

        § Croatia (13 cases), 

        § Cyprus (11 cases), 

        § Belgium (9 cases), 

        § Austria (6 cases, of which 1 had an unknown place of infection), 

        § Germany (4 cases), 

        § Hungary (4 cases), 

        § Albania (2 cases) and 

        § Kosovo (2 cases)

(...)

Source: 

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

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

 

    Virological testing identified Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) virus of H5 subtype. 

    Additionally, the neuraminidase subtype has yet to be identified in order to get the full characterization of the etiological agent.

    On September 14, 2026, a report was received regarding deaths and clinical signs consistent with HPAI in a backyard. 

    Samples were taken to identify the etiology of the disease. 

    On September 16, 2026, laboratory results confirmed Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza. 

    Population data will be updated once the culling is complete. Affected species: chickens and ducks.

Source: 

Link: https://wahis.woah.org/#/in-review/7847

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#Host type governs #influenza evolutionary #strategy across reservoir and #spillover hosts

 

Abstract

Despite its high propensity for host switching, the evolutionary mechanisms underlying influenza host adaptation remain unclear. H3Nx influenza viruses are uniquely generalist, with long-term lineages that circulate in avian, human, swine, equine, and canine hosts. Using 13,295 H3Nx sequences, we quantified host-specific adaptive evolution and developed a pipeline to map reassortment events onto trees with measures of statistical uncertainty. We find that while H3Nx viruses in mammals undergo adaptive evolution in HA and NA, viruses in birds experience very little directional selection. Instead, avian lineages exhibit high rates of reassortment, frequently generating novel reassortant lineages that persist transiently and turn over rapidly. 29.8-47.4% of all avian reassortant lineages are purged within the first year of circulation, and reassortment shows no fitness benefit in birds. In contrast, reassorted lineages in swine are more likely to persist long-term, suggesting that reassortment in swine may be broadly beneficial. Segment-specific reassortment patterns were also distinct between avian and mammalian viruses, with NA reassorting more frequently than expected in birds, but less frequently than expected in swine. Reassortment events are enriched between mammalian, but not avian, host switches, suggesting that reassortment may be most beneficial for mediating host switches among mammalian species. Together, our data suggest that host differences drive fundamentally different evolutionary outcomes for influenza viruses, transitioning from reassortment-dominant evolution in their avian reservoir, to varying degrees of adaptation upon establishment in mammals.

Competing Interest Statement

The authors have declared no competing interest.

Funder Information Declared

Pew Charitable Trusts

Margaret Q. Landenberger Research Foundation

National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases

National Institutes of Health

Department of Health and Human Services

United States Department of Agriculture

Agricultural Research Service

Source: 

Link: https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.64898/2026.09.15.751820v1

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#Australia, #H5 avian #influenza #events in #wildlife (DAFF, September 18 '26)

 

{Extract}

(...)

Event data

    ° 576 Positive events

    ° 46,391 Hotline reports

    As of 4pm AEST, 17 September 2026, Australia has 576 confirmed events of H5 bird flu in wildlife.

        § 10 in Western Australia (WA)

        § 302 in South Australia (SA)

        § 40 in New South Wales (NSW)

        § 2 in Queensland (QLD)

        § 182 in Victoria (VIC)

        § 39 in Tasmania (TAS)

        § 1 in Other Territories*

{*} Jervis Bay Territory (Commonwealth jurisdiction)

    As H5 bird flu is confirmed in more locations and species in Australia it will not be necessary to continue testing all species in known areas of transmission, or to test every animal involved in an investigation. 

    Reporting will be targeted to provide a clear picture of the national H5 bird flu situation in wildlife in Australia and key developments.

Data disclaimer

    Data reflects information provided by state and territory governments to the Australian Government as at 17:00 AEST daily. The Australian Government publishes this information for national reporting purposes. Responsibility for the accuracy, completeness and currency of the data remains with the relevant state or territory government. Due to differences in reporting timing, information on the national dashboard may differ from information published on state or territory government websites.

{Click on Image to Enlarge}

___

(...)

Source: 

Link: https://www.agriculture.gov.au/campaigns/birdflu/latest-data#h1_bird_flu

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Detection of #Divergent Highly Pathogenic Avian #Influenza #H5N1 Clade 2.3.4.4b Virus, São Paulo, #Brazil, 2025

 

Abstract

In 2025, we detected highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 virus in dead waterfowl at Ibirapuera Park, São Paulo, Brazil. Genomic characterization indicated a reassortant virus that emerged from locally circulating low pathogenicity avian influenza viruses and highly pathogenic North American lineages. Our results highlight cross-species transmission risk and underscore the need for enhanced surveillance.

Source: 

Link: https://doi.org/10.3201/eid3210.260723

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#Italy, #WNV & #Usutu Virus #Surveillance, Weekly #Report (September 17 '26): 657 Confirmed Human Cases so far, with 51 deaths

 

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    ° Since the beginning of 2026 epidemic season in Italy, 657 confirmed human cases of infection with West Nile Virus (WNV) have been confirmed (they were 594 last week).

    ° Of these: 

        § 345 were West Nile Neuroinvasive Disease (WNND), of which five imported (1 from Maldives, 1 France, 1 Belgium, 1 Greece and 1 the Netherlands), 

        § 80 were asymptomatic cases among blood donors, 

        § 224 were West Nile Fever cases 

        § 4 were unspecified cases, 

        § 4 were asymptomatic cases.

    ° The number of affected provinces rose to 82 in 19 Regions.

    ° Among confirmed cases, there have been 51 deaths (di cui uno in un caso importato). The Case-Fatality Rate among WNND cases is now at 14.7% (it was 15.8% in 2025).

    ° So far this season, 14 confirmed human cases of infection with Usutu virus have been reported (8 in Lombardy, 1 Emilia-Romagna, 1 Marche, 2 Latium, 1 Piedmont, 1 Veneto).

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Human Cases of Confirmed WNV per Week - 2026

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Source: 

Link: https://www.epicentro.iss.it/westnile/bollettino/Bollettino_WND_2026_8.pdf

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Estimated #Transmissibility and #CFR of #Bundibugyo Virus, #Uganda, 2007

 

Abstract

Because the epidemiology of Bundibugyo virus remains unclear, we reanalyzed the first recognized outbreak (Uganda, 2007). Adjusting for case under-ascertainment and the effect of control measures, we estimated the effective reproduction number (1.55, falling to <1 after intervention) and case-fatality rate (31%, declining to 25%). The underascertainment rate was 15%.

Source: 

Link: https://doi.org/10.3201/eid3210.261175

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Experimental Highly Pathogenic Avian #Influenza #H5N1 Clade 2.3.4.4b Virus #Infection in #Alpacas, 2026

 

Abstract

Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) A(H5N1) clade 2.3.4.4b virus continues to spread globally and sporadically transmits from avian reservoirs to mammalian hosts. In May 2024, H5N1 infections in young goats and alpacas in the United States were reported. Nevertheless, the overall susceptibility of camelids to clade 2.3.4.4b virus remains unclear. We conducted a controlled experimental infection study in 6 alpacas, assessing clinical signs, viral shedding, tissue distribution, and serologic responses after intranasal inoculation with HPAI H5N1 genotype B3.13 virus. Observed illness was generally mild; body temperature increased slightly and food intake reduced for up to 3 days postinfection. We detected viral RNA in nasal swab samples and confirmed infectious HPAI H5N1 virus. Immunohistochemistry and RNA in situ hybridization detected virus only in the nasopharyngeal tonsil and nasal conchae at 4 days postinfection. Our findings suggest alpacas are susceptible to productive H5N1 infection, highlighting implications for livestock surveillance and biosecurity in regions with ongoing circulation.

Source: 

Link: https://doi.org/10.3201/eid3210.260491

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Rapid #risk #assessment: #Diphtheria, African Region (WHO, September 17 '26, summary)

 

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Risk statement

    Diphtheria remains a public health threat in the WHO African Region. Since 1 March 2026, transmission has continued in Chad, Guinea, Mali,  Mauritania, Niger, Nigeria and South Africa, and a new outbreak has been  detected in Senegal. 

    The current situation in Algeria could not be assessed as no updated  epidemiological information for 2026 was available when this RRA was performed. 

    Most recent incidence data came in week 32/2026 (ending 9 August  2026) from Senegal, reporting 12 laboratory-confirmed diphtheria cases,  including two deaths, reported between 21 July and 10 August 2026.

    Based on the most recent information available through epidemiological  week 33 of 2026, Nigeria continues to report the largest number of cases (68%  of all cases). 

    Guinea has reported a recent increase in morbidity and mortality, with  over 100 recorded deaths and a persistently high case fatality ratio (CFR) of 15.8%. 

    Geographically extensive transmission is reported in Mauritania and Niger, as well as new cases identified in Senegal. 

    Mali has reported cases across several regions, although incidence has declined substantially. 

    In Niger, the number of cases and deaths reported, and the CFR remain  lower than during the corresponding period of 2025. 

    South Africa continues to report clusters and sporadic respiratory cases,  albeit with good contact tracing and case investigation. 

    Comparisons across countries should be interpreted cautiously because  reporting periods, case definitions and classification practices differ.

    National authorities, WHO and partners continue to implement  coordination, surveillance, laboratory testing, vaccination, case and contact  management, and risk communication and community engagement activities. However, persistent population-immunity gaps, very low laboratory confirmation  rates in most countries, delayed and incomplete reporting, uneven access to  timely treatment (antibiotics and diphtheria antitoxin (DAT)), insecurity, displacement and population movements continue to impede outbreak control.

    Assuming that no additional interventions are implemented beyond  those already in place, transmission is likely to persist, with the potential for further spread among susceptible populations and continued severe  outcomes where case detection, referral and treatment are delayed.

    The overall risk at the regional level is assessed as moderate, unchanged from RRA v2. 

    Factors sustaining the risk include:

        • Ongoing transmission in eight countries (Chad, Guinea, Mali,  Mauritania, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, and South Africa), indicating persistent  circulation across the Region.

        • In Nigeria, the epidemic is highly geographically concentrated, with  90% of reported cases originating from Kano, Bauchi, Katsina, Borno and Sokoto States.

        • In Guinea, recent increases in cases and deaths and a persistently  high CFR potentially indicate continuing gaps in early detection, timely referral, and access to appropriate treatment.

        • Geographically extensive transmission in Mauritania and Niger, as  well as continued transmission across several regions of Mali, including in settings  affected by insecurity, displacement, population movements, and limited access to  health services.

        • Persistent gaps in primary vaccination and limited booster-dose  coverage, leaving susceptible cohorts among older children, adolescents, and  adults, particularly within displaced, mobile, and hard-to-reach populations.

        • Decline in the coverage of DTP1 (76% in 2024 to 67% in 2025) and  DTP3 (74% in 2024 to 65% in 2025) in South Africa – according to WHO/UNICEF  estimates released in July 2026.

        • Low laboratory confirmation rates, due to limited laboratory supplies,  lack of reagents, challenges with sample collection and shipment, and shortages  of trained personnel.

        • Delayed and incomplete reporting, retrospective reporting, and  inconsistent use of standard case definitions and case classification across affected  countries, which constrain timely detection and interpretation of  epidemiological trends.

        • Limited availability of diphtheria antitoxin (DAT) in national stocks,  hindering appropriate clinical care for respiratory diphtheria.

        • Limited availability of specialized trained clinical and laboratory  personnel 

        • Cross-border population movements and gaps in information  exchange, which sustain the risk of spreading between neighbouring countries.

    These concerns are moderated by established national coordination and  response mechanisms and continued technical and operational support from  WHO and partners. Incidence has declined substantially in Mali, while the number  of cases and CFR reported in Niger remain lower than during the corresponding  period of 2025. However, cases in Guinea remain higher than in the comparable  period in 2025. Declining or relatively stable trends have also been observed in  some other affected countries. 

    Surveillance, case investigation, contact management, laboratory testing,  reactive vaccination and catch-up activities continue, although their  implementation and performance vary across countries. Case-management  capacity has been strengthened and essential supplies distributed in selected  settings, while risk communication and community engagement activities remain  ongoing. 

    Although transmission persists and localized cross-border spread remains possible, despite Senegal reporting cases, available information does  not indicate widespread regional acceleration or sustained transmission in  additional countries.

    The risk at the global level is assessed as low, unchanged from RRA v2.  Reported transmission remains concentrated in affected countries in the WHO  African Region, with no documented sustained transmission beyond the Region.  Nevertheless, international spread through travel and population movements  remains possible, particularly among susceptible populations.

    Confidence in the assessment is moderate because of low laboratory  confirmation in most settings, differences in reporting periods and case definitions, retrospective reporting and reclassification, and delayed or incomplete reporting from some countries.

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Source: 

Link: https://www.who.int/publications/m/item/who-rapid-risk-assessment---diphtheria--african-region-v.3

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Near real-time data on the #human neutralizing #antibody #landscape to #influenza virus in summer of 2026 shows antigenic advance of #H3N2 subclade K region D mutants and #H1N1 D.3.1.1 Sa mutants

 

Abstract

Human seasonal influenza evolves rapidly, necessitating twice yearly decisions about whether to update the strains in the vaccine. To help inform this decision, we have been using high-throughput sequencing-based neutralization assays to make twice yearly measurements of how recent human sera neutralize current human H3N2 and H1N1 strains. Here we provide the third installment in this series of measurements by reporting 47,851 titers representing neutralization of 148 viral strains by 325 human sera collected between April and August of 2026. Our measurements show that new H3N2 subclade K strains with mutations in antigenic region D and new H1N1 subclade D.3.1.1 strains with mutations in antigenic region Sa (such as G155E) have reduced neutralization by human sera, with notable heterogeneity in the impact of some of these mutations across sera from different individuals. This paper is accompanied by an interactive summary (https://jbloomlab.github.io/flu-seqneut-2026/summary.html) that enables detailed exploration of the results, and all titer data are publicly available for further analysis to aid vaccine antigen selection and studies of viral evolution.

Competing Interest Statement

JDB consults for Pfizer, GSK, Apriori Bio, and Merck. JDB has received stock options in the Vaccine Company. JDB is an inventor on Fred Hutch licensed patents related to techniques to characterize the antigenic effects of viral variation. SEH is a co-inventor on patents that describe the use of nucleoside-modified mRNA as a vaccine platform. SEH reports receiving consulting fees from Sanofi, Pfizer, Lumen, Novavax, and Merck. ALG reports contract testing to UW from Abbott, Cepheid, Novavax, Pfizer, Janssen, Assembly Biosciences, Aicuris, Innovative Molecules, and Hologic, research support from Gilead, personal consulting fees from Arisan Therapeutics, outside of the described work. JAE reports support to her institution from GSK, Pfizer, Moderna, and is a consultant for GSK, Pfizer, Merck, Meissa vaccines, Moderna, and Shionogi. ST reports research funding from Pfizer for a separate study.

Funder Information Declared

National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, R01AI165821, F30AI186284, 75N93021C00015

Howard Hughes Medical Institute, https://ror.org/006w34k90

Source: 

Link: https://doi.org/10.64898/2026.09.15.751855

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