#USA, #Outbreak of #cyclosporiasis occurring in #Michigan (Dept. of Health, July 1 '26)

 

July 01, 2026

No cause identified for illnesses at this time; state offers prevention tips

LANSING, Mich. - The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) and Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD), in partnership with several local health departments, are actively investigating a large and growing outbreak of cyclosporiasis, a diarrheal illness.  

    As of Tuesday, June 30, more than 170 cases have been reported in Monroe, Lenawee, Washtenaw, Wayne, Livingston, Shiawassee and Jackson counties in the past nine days. Typically, Michigan only identifies around 50 cyclosporiasis cases per year.  

    “Outbreaks of cyclosporiasis have been occurring across the United States and now here in Michigan,” said Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, chief medical executive. 

    “Based on the unusual number of cases we have identified in a little over a week, we anticipate additional cases of illness being reported. We recommend Michiganders contact their health care provider if they experience sudden, ongoing diarrhea and reach out to their local health department if additional members of their family are suffering from the same symptoms.” 

    Cyclosporiasis is caused by infection with the parasite Cyclospora cayatenensis, which is commonly found in developing countries and spread by food or water contaminated with feces. In recent years, outbreaks have occurred in the U.S. as a result of eating contaminated fresh produce, especially during the summer months. Cyclosporiasis is not known to spread from person to person. 

    Symptoms occur two to 14 days after exposure and may include: 

        ° Frequent watery diarrhea. 

        ° Loss of appetite and weight. 

        ° Abdominal cramps and bloating. 

        ° Nausea (vomiting is less common). 

        ° Low-grade fever. 

    Individuals experiencing sudden gastrointestinal illness are encouraged to be evaluated by a health care provider. Symptoms of cyclosporiasis can be significantly improved with antibiotic treatment. If untreated, the illness may last for a few days to a month or longer. Providers are urged to consider cyclosporiasis among patients presenting with acute gastrointestinal illness in southeast Michigan. 

    “MDARD is committed to ensuring food safety across the state and is working in partnership with local health departments to identify the source of the outbreak and keep consumers safe,” said Jennifer Bonsky, Director of the Human Food Division at MDARD. 

    “In these moments, it becomes even more important to follow all of the essential food preparation guidelines, such as washing your hands before and after preparing food and washing produce before it is consumed.”  

    To help avoid any illness from cyclospora or other harmful bacteria or organisms, MDARD recommends the following: 

        ° Wash all fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water before eating, cutting or cooking. 

        ° Scrub firm fruits and vegetables, such as melons and cucumbers, with a clean produce brush. 

        ° Cut away any damaged or bruised areas on fruits and vegetables before preparing and eating. 

        ° Refrigerate cut, peeled or cooked fruits and vegetables as soon as possible. 

    Not all cases identified in the last nine days may be connected to the outbreak and the public health investigation is ongoing. State and local officials are interviewing cases to try and identify a common exposure and prevent additional illness. Individuals diagnosed with cyclosporiasis are encouraged to talk to health department staff investigating these illnesses to help identify a potential cause. 

    Additional information is available at About Cyclosporiasis | Cyclosporiasis | CDC.

Current case county by county as of Tuesday, June 30: 

    ° Monroe: 70 

    ° Lenawee: 33 

    ° Washtenaw: 21  

    ° Wayne: 12 

    ° Jackson: 7 

    ° Shiawassee: 7 

    ° 24 cases in 11 other counties and the City of Detroit.

Age 

    ° Age range: 8 years to 84 years 

    ° Average age: 44.3 years 

    ° Median age: 41 years 

# # #

Source: 

Link: https://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs/inside-mdhhs/newsroom/2026/07/01/cyclosporiasis

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#Andes Virus on a Cruise #Ship, what it Tells us About the #Global #Pandemic #Preparedness Agenda

 

Summary

The outbreak of hantavirus disease caused by Andes virus aboard a cruise ship is a reminder of the challenges posed by emerging diseases in the modern era. While Andes virus-associated disease can be particularly severe, it is unlikely to spread extensively beyond the current number of cases or emerge as a large epidemic, especially if public health measures are followed. Nonetheless, the outbreak exemplifies the complexity of international outbreak response with differences in national preparedness frameworks and the rapid spread of mis-/disinformation. We discuss this outbreak in the context of global epidemic and pandemic preparedness and emphasize the importance of sustained, inclusive global collaborative One Health approaches to preparedness and response. We stress the urgent need for global coordination, discuss specific challenges, and provide recommendations for further strengthening of global preparedness.

Source: 

Link: https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanepe/article/PIIS2666-7762(26)00167-5/fulltext

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Seasonal #surveillance in #humans and #animals in 2026 for West Nile virus (#WNV) (ECDC, Monthly Report, Summary)

 

June 2026 | Produced on 30 June 2026 at 07:15 based on data submitted up to 24 June 2026

Epidemiological summary

    As of 24 June, two countries in Europe reported three locally acquired1 human cases of WNV infection: 

        ° Italy reported two cases and 

        ° North Macedonia one case. 

    Dates of onset ranged from 12 to 27 May 2026. 

    No deaths have been reported.

    The cases were reported from three regions across the two countries. Although no cases had been reported by this time in 2025, some cases with onset dates in May and June were subsequently notified with a delay. Therefore, the current situation remains consistent with the early phase of the seasonal reporting pattern observed in previous years.

    This year, human cases of WNV infection were reported for the first time ever in one affected area: North Macedonia in Vardarski (MK001).

    Among the three cases reported this year, one person was aged 65 years or older, one was aged under 65 years, and the age of one person was unknown. All three cases were hospitalised. 

    Neurological manifestations were reported in two individuals; information on clinical presentation was unavailable for the remaining case. 

    As only three cases have been reported to date, comparisons with demographic or severity patterns observed over the previous decade are not yet meaningful. Further updates will be provided in subsequent monthly reports.

    From the veterinary perspective, five WNV outbreaks have been reported in Europe in 2026: one among equids and four among birds. 

    The equid outbreak was reported by France and started on 30 March 2026. The four bird outbreaks were reported by Italy, with start dates ranging from 31 March to 4 May 2026.

    No information was available on the equid species involved in the outbreak reported in France in the Animal Disease Information System (ADIS). For birds, species information indicated that the four outbreaks reported in Italy involved hooded crows (three outbreaks) and a golden eagle (one outbreak).

    Outbreaks in birds and/or equids have been reported in three regions across two countries. Both countries that reported outbreaks in 2026 had previously reported WNV outbreaks in birds and/or equids in the same regions, indicating that WNV is endemic in these areas.

    The number of outbreaks in birds and equids reported during this first period of 2026 is similar to the mean monthly outbreak count for the same time of year, calculated for 2022–2025 for birds and for 2016–2025 for equids.

    Italy reported both locally acquired human WNV cases and WNV outbreaks in birds; however, the human cases and bird outbreaks were reported from different regions.

    Owing to delays in diagnosis and reporting, and because most WNV infections are asymptomatic or subclinical, the reported case numbers likely underestimate the true number of infections. Seasonal surveillance in humans primarily captures laboratory-confirmed cases, which may further contribute to reporting delays.

    Given the favourable weather conditions for WNV transmission in Europe, ECDC and EFSA expect further human cases and outbreaks in equids and birds to be reported in the coming weeks and months. In previous years, transmission has typically peaked in August and September.

    ECDC and EFSA will continue to closely monitor the situation in Europe.

(...)

Source: 

Link: https://www.ecdc.europa.eu/en/infectious-disease-topics/west-nile-virus-infection/surveillance-and-disease-data/monthly-updates

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Maintenance of #Hokkaido virus, a genotype of #Orthohantavirus puumalaense, in the #rodent host Myodes rufocanus bedfordiae under natural conditions

 

ABSTRACT

A variety of orthohantaviruses (family Hantaviridae) have preferred natural host species, with transmission among hosts generally thought to occur through direct physical contact and inhalation of virus-contaminated excreta, although the infection to the other species occasionally occurs. Despite extensive experimental studies, the mechanisms of orthohantavirus maintenance and transmission under natural conditions remain unclear. In this study, field surveys were conducted in a forest in Tobetsu, Hokkaido, Japan, between 2022 and 2025 to capture gray red-backed voles (Myodes rufocanus bedfordiae), the natural host of Hokkaido virus (HOKV), a genotype of Orthohantavirus puumalaense. Among 199 captured rodents, 23 were positive for HOKV infection. Five individuals were positive for viral RNA but negative for anti-HOKV IgG antibodies on ELISA and IFA and exhibited low neutralizing antibody titers and low IgG avidity indexes (≤26%), suggesting acute infection. In contrast, 18 individuals were positive for viral RNA and showed high antibody titers on ELISA, IFA, and neutralization tests, as well as high IgG avidities (≥64%); these individuals were considered persistently infected. High levels of viral RNA and antigens were consistently detected in the lungs, kidneys, and spleen during both potential acute and persistent phases of HOKV infection by quantitative PCR and immunohistochemistry. Infectious HOKV was also recovered from oral swabs (8/8), urine (3/6), and feces (4/6) of individual rodents captured in 2024. These findings showed that HOKV can persist at high viral loads in host organs and be excreted throughout the course of infection, contributing to the long-term maintenance of orthohantavirus in natural host populations.

Source: Journal of Virology, https://journals.asm.org/journal/jvi

Link: https://journals.asm.org/doi/10.1128/jvi.00321-26

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#Sudan virus disease in #humans

 

Summary

In 2025, Uganda had Africa’s ninth outbreak of disease caused by Sudan virus (SUDV), a filovirus similar to Ebola virus (EBOV) that causes severe febrile disease in humans. In this Review, we summarise the evidence on the epidemiology, natural history, and immunology of Sudan virus disease (SVD) from outbreaks since 1976. Following an incubation period averaging about 1 week, SVD typically presents with an influenza-like illness followed by a severe diarrhoeal disease, often accompanied by cardiorespiratory symptoms and dehydration. Clinical findings can include kidney and liver injury, acute inflammation, and coagulopathy. Severe cases can progress rapidly to shock, multiorgan failure, and death. The pooled case-fatality rate until 2022 was 49% (95% CI 39–58), although a lower case-fatality rate of 29% was recorded during the 2025 outbreak. The virus is detectable in blood from symptom onset, peaking during acute illness. Transmission occurs mainly through close contact with acutely symptomatic individuals and their body fluids, driving household and nosocomial spread. Early T-cell responses and SUDV-specific antibodies might be important for survival, and suppressed immunity and uncontrolled inflammation might predict fatal outcomes. Survivors present durable humoral and cellular immunity for up to 15 years after infection. Although outbreaks to date offer valuable insights into SVD, substantial evidence gaps and limitations exist. Future outbreak preparedness should include prospective planning for high-quality research that can be rapidly implemented to address key evidence gaps. Strengthening these data, together with advancing the development and evaluation of vaccines and therapeutics, will be essential for timely and effective outbreak response.

Source: The Lancet Global Health, https://www.thelancet.com/journals/langlo/home

Link: https://www.thelancet.com/journals/langlo/article/PIIS2214-109X(26)00072-0/fulltext

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

 

After several months without detection of HPAI circulation, these are the first outbreaks confirmed in 2026.

{Lisboa Region} Yellow-legged gull with weakness and neurological clinical signs found at a city park.

__

By Andreas Trepte - Own work, CC BY-SA 2.5, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=723467

{Aveiro Region} Lesser black-backed gull with neurological clinical signs found at a fishing port.

Source: 

Link: https://wahis.woah.org/#/in-review/7671

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#Ebola #Bundibugyo virus disease #outbreak: #DRC, #Uganda - Weekly External #Situation #Report 07, Data as of 28 June 2026 (#WHO, edited): 1,307 cases and 377 deaths in DRC

 

Summary 

[Country - Confirmed Cases - Confirmed Deaths - Probable Cases - Probable Deaths - Total Cases (Confirmed & Probable) - Total Deaths (Confirmed & Probable) - CFR (%) Confirmed & Probable ]

    -- Democratic Republic of the Congo

        ° 1 307 - 377 - ...  - ... - ... - 1 307- 377 - 28.8% 

    -- Uganda

        ° 20 - 2 - 1 - 1 - 21 - 3 - 14.3% 

    -- France

        ° 1 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 1 - 0 - 0.0%

Event description

    The Bundibugyo virus disease (BVD) outbreak remains active, with ongoing transmission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and one imported case reported in France in a physician returning from the affected country. 

    In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the number of confirmed cases continue to rise, and an additional health zone reported cases during the current reporting week. 

    No new confirmed cases were reported in Uganda over the past week.

Democratic Republic of the Congo

    Since the last update of 21 June 2026 (Situation Report #6), cumulative case incidence in the Democratic Republic of the Congo has increased by 24.7%, with 259 new confirmed cases reported. 

    Cumulative deaths also increased by 41.2%, with 110 new confirmed deaths recorded during the reporting period. 

    An additional health zone, Mandima in Ituri Province, reported its first confirmed case, bringing the total number of affected health zones since the start of the outbreak to 35.

{Click on Image to Enlarge}

    Of the 35 affected health zones, the outbreak remains active in 28 health zones that have reported cases in the past 21 days. 

    

    The remaining seven health zones have not reported any new cases during this period. 

    These include Gety (38 days), Mambasa (26 days), Rimba (25 days), and Aru (24 days) in Ituri Province; Kalunguta (35 days) and Goma (34 days) in North Kivu Province; and Miti-Murhesa (39 days) in South Kivu Province.

    Among the 28 health zones that have reported 709 confirmed cases, including 262 confirmed deaths in the past 21 days, transmission remains heavily concentrated in Ituri Province, which accounts for 89.4% of reported cases (634 cases) and 86.3% of deaths (226 deaths) during this period. 

    Most cases reported during this period were from Bunia (181), Rwampara (173), Mongbwalu (144), Nyankunde (62), and Nizi (34) in Ituri  Province, as well as Butembo (27) and Katwa (26) in North Kivu Province. 

    Together, these health zones account for 91.3% of all confirmed cases reported nationally over the past 21 days. 

    No new confirmed case has been reported from South Kivu since 26 May 2026.

    Deaths reported during the same period were also concentrated in a limited number of health zones, particularly Mongbwalu (81), Bunia (59), Rwampara (36), Katwa (15), Nyankunde (12), Mangala (12),and Butembo (10). 

    Together, these health zones account for 85.9% of all deaths reported nationally in the past 21 days.

    Cumulatively, a total of 1307 confirmed cases, including 377 confirmed deaths [case fatality ratio (CFR) 28.8%], have been reported in the Democratic Republic of the Congo since the start of the outbreak. 

    Ituri Province remains the most affected, accounting for 91.6% (1197) of all confirmed cases and 84.4% (318) of all reported deaths nationwide.

    The most affected health zones are Bunia (344 cases, 74 deaths), Rwampara (295 cases, 56 deaths), Mongbwalu (258 cases, 121 deaths), Nyankunde (94 cases, 13 deaths), and Nizi (39 cases, 9 deaths), all located in Ituri Province, as well as Katwa (38 cases, 23 deaths) and Butembo (33 cases, 14 deaths) in North Kivu Province. Together, these seven health zones account for 84.2% of cumulative confirmed cases and 82.2% of confirmed deaths reported nationally.

    The CFR remains highest in North Kivu Province at 54.2% (58 deaths/107 cases), followed by South Kivu at 33.3% (1/3), and Ituri at 26.6% (318/1197), indicating persistently higher mortality among reported cases in North Kivu.

    The geographic distribution of recent transmission largely mirrors the cumulative outbreak pattern, with sustained concentration in Ituri Province and continued high mortality reported from a limited number of health zones.

(...)

    As of 28 June 2026, a total of 9968 contacts were under follow-up across affected provinces in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, of whom 8105 (81.3%) were successfully seen in the past 24 hours. 

    

    Ituri accounted for the largest number of contacts under follow-up, with 7706 contacts, of whom 6319 (82.9%) were reached. 

    In North Kivu, 2244 of 1696 contacts (75.6%) were seen, while all 18 identified contacts in South Kivu were followed up, corresponding to a 100% follow-up rate. 

    Despite recent improvements, contact follow-up coverage remains suboptimal overall, leaving a significant proportion of contacts not reached and increasing the risk of missed infections and ongoing transmission.

(...)

Uganda

    No new case has been reported from Uganda since the last update. The most recent case, reported on 21 June 2026, involved a truck driver operating along the Democratic Republic of the Congo–Uganda international route. The case developed symptoms on 15 June 2026, entered Uganda on 19 June 2026, and was isolated on 20 June 2026 at the Mulago Ebola Treatment Unit.

    As of 28 June 2026, a cumulative total of 21 cases (20 confirmed and one probable), including three deaths (two confirmed and one probable), had been reported in the Kampala. 

    A total of 15 patients have recovered and been discharged, while three remain admitted for care. 

    Of the 831 contacts identified since the start of the outbreak, five remained under follow-up as of 28 June 2026.

{Click on Image to Enlarge}

France

    On 24 June 2026, French authorities notified WHO of a laboratory-confirmed case of Ebola disease caused by Bundibugyo virus in a middle-aged male physician returning from the Democratic Republic of the Congo. 

    The patient had been deployed for five weeks in Ituri Province, where he was involved in the care of patients with BVD. 

    Upon arrival at Charles de Gaulle Airport on 23 June 2026, the patient self-reported symptoms to airport health authorities, prompting immediate isolation and referral to a designated high-containment healthcare facility.

    At the time of reporting, the patient was clinically stable and apyretic, with no reported vomiting, diarrhoea, or haemorrhagic manifestations during travel. 

    PCR testing detected Bundibugyo virus. Comprehensive contact tracing has been initiated.

Risk Assessment

    The overall risk remains very high in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, with transmission continuing at a scale that exceeds current response capacity, particularly in the Bunia–Rwampara–Mongbwalu corridor and across other affected health zones. 

    North Kivu’s markedly higher CFR points to possible delays in diagnosis and access to care, while clinical capacity in Ituri is approaching saturation. 

    Although contact follow-up and alert investigation have improved, performance remains insufficient to rapidly interrupt transmission. 

    Uganda remains exposed through sustained population movement from eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, including trucking routes and possible informal cross-border movement linked to border closures. 

    

    The imported case reported in France further confirms that international exportation risk persists, requiring strengthened surveillance, traveller awareness, and cross-border coordination

(...)

Situation interpretation

The BVD outbreak continues to expand at a pace that exceeds current response capacity, with sustained high-intensity transmission ongoing in several hotspot areas. 

    Although important operational gains have been achieved, including improved contact follow-up, expanded decentralized laboratory capacity, increased treatment capacity, and strengthened cross-border coordination, overall response performance remains below the level required to rapidly interrupt transmission. 

    The continued increase in cases and deaths, near-saturation of treatment facilities, and suboptimal IPC readiness in health facilities underscore the need for a stronger operational surge focused on hotspot containment, rapid case detection and isolation, expansion of decentralized clinical and laboratory services, enhanced community engagement, and strengthened cross-border surveillance. 

    The imported case reported in France further highlights the continuing risk of international spread and reinforces the need for sustained regional and international mobilization, including rapid operationalization of pledged resources and intensified support to frontline response activities.

Source: 

Link: https://reliefweb.int/report/democratic-republic-congo/ebola-bundibugyo-virus-disease-outbreak-democratic-republic-congo-uganda-weekly-external-situation-report-07-data-28-june-2026

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#Australia notifies first case of High Pathogenicity Avian #Influenza #H5N1 in a wild #bird (WOAH, June 30 '26)

    On 20 June 2026, WOAH was notified of the first detection of high pathogenicity avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 in Australia in a marine wild bird, a migratory brown skua (Stercorarius antarcticus). 

    The virus is related to H5N1 HPAI clade 2.3.4.4b viruses, which is the same subtype that is predominantly circulating in poultry, wild birds, and mammals globally. 

    Enhanced general and targeted surveillance is underway by the animal health authorities to determine the extent of infection. 

    An epidemiological investigation has commenced.

    HPAI H5N1 has caused a global panzootic since 2021, affecting wild birds, poultry, and multiple mammalian species. 

    Until recently, Australia remained free of this particular subtype despite widespread international incursions.

    Since its emergence, this H5N1 subtype has crossed continents, reaching North and South America in 2022 and extending to the Antarctic islands in 2023. 

    It has since been detected in new host species such as cattle, and marine mammals, caused sporadic human infections, driven exceptionally high activity in wild birds in 2025, and is now being reported in Australia for the first time.

    The World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) acknowledges Australia’s immediate notification of Influenza A virus of high pathogenicity in non-poultry birds through the World Animal Health Information System (WAHIS)   and commends Australia for its longstanding commitment to transparency and to the protection of global animal health.

    This notification represents a significant epidemiological event, documenting the first detection of HPAI H5N1 in a wild bird in Australia. 

    The finding confirms the incursion of this globally circulating virus lineage into wildlife in a subregion that had remained free from this subtype despite its extensive international spread in other regions and sub-regions. 

    The risk for Australian avifauna, especially endemic bird species is significant.

    This detection underscores critical considerations: 

        ° Early detection remains our strongest line of prevention 

        ° Early detection and timely reporting linked to early response measures, are essential in limiting the spread of HPAI and reducing its impact on poultry, livestock, wildlife, livelihoods and human health. This event demonstrates the value of sustained surveillance systems, laboratory capacity and field awareness in identifying emerging threats.

    ° Transparency and solidarity strengthen global preparedness 

    ° Timely reporting through WAHIS   allows countries to access official information, assess risks and coordinate responses based on reliable scientific evidence.  

    ° Preparedness requires sustained investment 

        Preparedness is best built before an emergency. Recent events demonstrate the cost of waiting. According to WOAH’s State of the World’s Animal Health 2026 report, more than 2,000 outbreaks of HPAI were reported by 64 countries and territories between 2025 and 2026, resulting in the loss or culling of more than 140 million poultry. At the same time, animal health continues to receive only a small fraction – 0.6% – of global health investment. Strong Veterinary Services, well-equipped laboratories, collaboration with WOAH Reference Laboratories, effective surveillance systems, trained personnel, One Health collaboration, international networks of expertise such as OFFLU and emergency preparedness plans do not emerge during a crisis – they are built through sustained investment over time.

    ° Continued national and international investment remains essential to reduce the impact of HPAI and other emerging animal health threats. 

    ° Multisectoral collaboration 

        This event also highlights the importance of maintaining strong scientific collaboration networks and engaging stakeholders before emergencies arise. Governments, Veterinary Services, laboratories, researchers, wildlife authorities, public health authorities, industry and international organisations play complementary roles in strengthening preparedness and response.  

        WOAH remains committed to supporting its Members through international standards, scientific expertise, capacity building and transparent information sharing. As HPAI continues to evolve globally, continued collaboration, preparedness and collective action remain essential to protect animal health, safeguard livelihoods and strengthen global health security. 

    ° WOAH calls on its Members to:  

        - Maintain enhanced avian influenza SURVEILLANCE  in domestic and wild birds and consider HPAI in differential diagnosis for other susceptible wild or domestic animal species.   

        - REPORT cases of HPAI in all animal species, including in domestic and wild mammals, to WOAH through its World Animal Health Information System (WAHIS)    . Genetic sequences of avian influenza viruses should be shared in publicly available databases. 

        - COLLABORATE with public health authorities, wildlife authorities and other relevant partners through a One Health approach to strengthen surveillance, risk assessment, preparedness and response.

        - CONSIDER  poultry vaccination    as a possible complementary avian influenza control measure;

        - PREVENT the introduction and spread of the disease by implementing strict biosecurity measures in poultry holdings and 

        - EMPLOY good   production and hygiene practices     when handling animal products. Relevant measures notably include keeping poultry away from contact with wild birds, ensuring good hygiene in poultry housing and equipment and reporting bird illnesses and deaths to the Veterinary Services. 

        - PROTECT humans and other potentially susceptible mammals (both wild and domestic). People in close contact or exposed to wildlife should always take   precautionary measures     to avoid getting infected and minimise the risk of mechanically carrying the virus.   

        - AVOID IMPLEMENTING unjustified trade restrictions. Import risk management measures should be scientifically justified and in line with the WOAH International Standards. 

    ° WOAH is fully committed to supporting its Members to mitigate the risks associated with avian influenza. We will continue to engage with our networks of experts, OFFLU, as well as public and private partners, notably through the One Health Quadripartite   and the Global Framework for Transboundary Animal Diseases (GF-TADs)     to provide technical updates as more information becomes available. 

    ° In collaboration with its  Reference Centres  , networks of experts and Members including the WOAH WildNet network of collaborating centres on wildlife health, the WOAH remains in close contact with Australian Veterinary Authorities to monitor the situation to assess the risks to poultry,  wildlife, other susceptible animal species and humans. Australia’s rapid detection and transparent reporting demonstrate the value of strong surveillance systems and international cooperation. As HPAI continues to evolve and spread across regions and species, timely information sharing, scientific collaboration and sustained preparedness remain essential to protect animal and public health. Transparent reporting is also critical to maintaining trust, supporting evidence-based decision-making and preventing misinformation and disinformation. 

Source: 

Link: https://www.woah.org/en/australia-notifies-first-case-of-high-pathogenicity-avian-influenza-h5n1-in-a-wild-bird/

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#Sialic acid-anchored #haemagglutinin stalk neutralizing #antibody M-SiaB enhances #protection against highly pathogenic #influenza #H5N1/Texas/2024

 

Abstract

The recently emerged cattle H5N1/Texas/2024 strain highlights the need for effective prophylactic and therapeutic drug interventions, yet most existing neutralizing antibodies (NAbs) have limited efficacy against genetically divergent pathogenic influenza viruses. Here we engineer a sialic acid-anchored tandem M-SiaB by fusing a hemagglutinin (HA) stalk-specific monoclonal NAb with a sialic acid-receptor-binding domain (SiaB). M-SiaB shows 4- to 20-fold greater neutralizing potency against diverse authentic influenza viruses compared to the parental NAb and suppresses multiple stages of the viral life cycle, including viral attachment, entry and release. Importantly, intranasal M-SiaB confers markedly enhanced protection against nasal challenges with the pathogenic H1N1/PR8 and H5N1/Texas/2024 strains. Notably, a single dose of M‑SiaB maintains survival after a highly lethal H5N1/Texas/2024 challenge for up to 21 days. These findings demonstrate that simultaneously targeting HA stalk and sialic acid-receptor is a promising strategy to enhance the potency and breadth of NAbs against genetically divergent pathogenic influenza viruses.

Source: Nature Communications, https://www.nature.com/ncomms/

Link: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-026-74633-5

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#Genomic and structural #evidence of #SARS-CoV-2 and #MERS-CoV in migratory #birds

 

Significance

Coronaviruses are regarded as highly important pathogens of birds and mammals. Herein, we obtained three almost full-length severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) genomes and one partial Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) genome in the feces of migratory birds based on meta-transcriptome and PCR amplification. We determined the affinities and the complex structures between receptor-binding domain (RBD) of the SARS-CoV-2 viral spike protein and angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) protein of two migratory birds, Tundra and Black swans. Moreover, pseudotyped SARS-CoV-2 variants can enter into HeLa cells expressing ACE2 proteins of these birds. Altogether, our results expand our understanding of migratory birds as potential carrier of both SARS-CoV-2 and MERS-CoV.

Abstract

Migratory birds are the natural reservoir of influenza A virus (IAV), but their role as a carrier of SARS-CoV-2 remains unclear. Here, we report the identification of three almost full-length viral genome sequences of SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern (VOCs) in Tundra swans. These sequences are named hCoV-19/Tundra swan/Jiangxi/IMCAS_M1/2021 (IMCAS_M1), hCoV-19/Tundra swan/Jiangxi /IMCAS_M2/2021 (IMCAS_M2), and hCoV-19/Tundra swan/Jiangxi/IMCAS_M3/2021 (IMCAS_M3). IMCAS_M1 and IMCAS_M3 have the same mutations as the Beta VOC (K417N, E484K, and N501Y) in the receptor-binding domain (RBD) of the viral spike (S) protein, whereas IMCAS_M2 shares the same mutations as the Gamma VOC (K417T, E484K, and N501Y) in the RBD with all three showing their distinct mutations in the genomes. Virus receptor angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) proteins from both Tundra swan (tsACE2) and Black swan (bsACE2) can bind to the RBDs of all three viruses and the Alpha VOC, but not to RBD of the prototype (PT) virus. The polar contacts and hydrophobic interactions revealed by cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) structures of the RBD–ACE2 complex, play key roles in virus–receptor engagement. Furthermore, HeLa cells expressing bsACE2 and tsACE2 proteins could be transduced by pseudotyped SARS-CoV-2 variants (Alpha, Beta, and Gamma) but not PT SARS-CoV-2. In addition, we obtained one partial genome of MERS-CoV named Bar-headed goose/Tibet/IMCAS_M4/2022 (IMCAS_M4) with 20,180 bp (~70.0% coverage). Our findings highlight the importance of migratory birds as potential carrier of both SARS-CoV-2 and MERS-CoV, thereby posing potential threat to public health.

Source: Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America, https://www.pnas.org/

Link: https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2400023123

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#Andes Virus #Exposure and #Nosocomial #Transmission Events to #Healthcare Personnel: A Systematic Review

 

Abstract

Background

Andes virus (ANDV) is a high-consequence infectious disease with substantial mortality. On May 2, 2026, the World Health Organization reported a multinational ANDV outbreak, raising questions regarding risk of transmission to healthcare personnel (HCP).

Methods

We performed a systematic review per PRISMA guidelines (PROSPERO:CRD420261283806) for studies describing healthcare-associated ANDV exposure or transmission events to HCP.

Results

Eight studies reporting on 7 events were included, describing a total of 17 healthcare-associated cases. Overall, 207 individuals were exposed, including 118 HCP, resulting in 8 infections and 4 deaths among HCP. Studies describing HCP infections reported none or inadequate personal protective equipment (PPE) use.

Conclusions

Transmission of ANDV to HCP has been reported in the setting of delayed implementation of transmission-based precautions or breaches in infection control practice. Limitations in published exposure events highlight the need for standardized reporting of exposure events and outcomes as well as infection prevention measures implemented.

Source: Clinical Infectious Diseases Journal, https://academic.oup.com/cid

Link: https://academic.oup.com/cid/advance-article/doi/10.1093/cid/ciag394/8721691

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{#Canada} #Fatal #rabies in a #child (CMAJ)

 

{Summary}

Key points

    ° Rabies is a neurotropic infection that is rare in Canada and almost always fatal once symptoms develop.

    ° Rabies postexposure prophylaxis is highly effective in preventing infection in exposed humans if administered promptly and before onset of rabies symptoms.

    ° Any direct human contact with a bat is an indication for rabies postexposure prophylaxis and should be discussed with the regional public health authority.

    ° No established efficacious therapies are available for treatment of rabies once symptom onset has occurred.

An immunocompetent 11-year-old boy presented with odynophagia and emesis to an urban hospital emergency department in Ontario, Canada. Seven days before presentation, he had developed progressive right-sided facial paresthesia and numbness, followed by anorexia and right-sided facial swelling. Four days after symptom onset, he had been prescribed oral valacyclovir (1 g, 3 times daily) at a local urgent care clinic for presumed Bell palsy secondary to herpes simplex virus; however, he was unable to tolerate this because of odynophagia. He had no history of allergies, sick contacts, tick bites, or recent travel outside the country.

(...)

Source: Canadian Medical Association Journal, https://www.cmaj.ca/

Link: https://www.cmaj.ca/content/198/25/E969

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#Taiwan, As the #COVID19 #epidemic continues to rise, CDC calls the public to get vaccinated as soon as possible (June 30 '26)

 

    The Taiwan Centers for Disease Control (CDC) stated today (June 30) that the COVID-19 pandemic continues to rise both domestically and internationally, and with the summer travel season approaching, the risk of virus transmission is increasing. 

    The publicly funded COVID-19 vaccines currently used in Taiwan still provide protection against the existing circulating strains. 

    Those planning to travel who have not yet been vaccinated are encouraged to seize this opportunity to get vaccinated as soon as possible to obtain sufficient protection.

    According to CDC statistics, the COVID-19 pandemic is rising domestically. 

    In the 25th week (June 21-27), there were 1,452 outpatient and emergency room visits related to COVID-19, an increase of 43.8% compared to the previous week. 

    Last week (June 23-29), there were 8 new local cases of severe COVID-19 complications, with no new local deaths. 

    Since October 2025, there have been a cumulative total of 105 local cases of severe COVID-19 complications, of which 16 have died. 

    The majority of severe cases are among the elderly aged 65 and above (71.4%) and those with a history of chronic diseases (81.9%). 94.3% of these cases have not received the COVID-19 vaccine this season. 

    The global COVID-19 positivity rate has recently shown a slight increase, with a significant rise in the Western Pacific and Eastern Mediterranean regions. 

    Neighboring countries/regions such as China, Hong Kong, and Japan are experiencing rising cases, while South Korea's situation is fluctuating at a low point. 

    Currently, the predominant circulating variant globally is NB.1.8.1, followed by BA.3.2 and JN.1. 

    Neighboring countries such as China and Hong Kong have a higher proportion of NB.1.8.1. 

    Furthermore, as of June 28, 2026, approximately 1.728 million COVID-19 vaccinations have been administered this season, with vaccination rates among those aged 65 and above at 20.97% for the first dose and 0.48% for the second dose.

    The Taiwan Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reminds the public that the nationwide rollout of publicly funded COVID-19 vaccines to those who are 6 months (180 days) or older will continue until July 31st of this year. 

    Approximately 461,000 doses remain in stock (including 455,000 doses of the single-dose Moderna vaccine and 6,000 doses of the Novavax vaccine). 

    The public is urged to seize this opportunity and get vaccinated as soon as possible. 

    High-risk groups, such as those aged 65 and above, who have not yet been vaccinated or have received their first dose with a 6-month interval, are also urged to get vaccinated promptly to enhance their immune protection. 

    Furthermore, the multi-dose Moderna vaccine for young children has been exhausted. 

    Following discussions and approval by the Advisory Committee on Infectious Disease Prevention and Control (ACIP) of the Ministry of Health and Welfare on June 24th of this year, it has been agreed that for children aged 6 months to 11 years who require vaccination, the remaining doses of the single-dose Moderna vaccine (after deducting half the dose) can be used for their vaccination.

    The CDC urges the public not to be complacent about the ongoing global COVID-19 pandemic and to take necessary precautions such as frequent handwashing, wearing masks, and getting vaccinated. 

    Individuals with severe risk factors (such as those over 65 years of age, pregnant women, those with chronic diseases, or those with weakened immune systems) are at high risk of developing severe complications. 

    If they experience suspected symptoms, they should seek medical attention as soon as possible. 

    A doctor will assess their condition and prescribe antiviral medication to reduce the risk of severe complications or death after infection. 

    The public can also purchase home rapid testing kits at convenience stores or pharmacies that sell them for self-testing to facilitate subsequent medical diagnosis and treatment. 

    Currently, there are sufficient reserves of antiviral drugs. There are 113,000 doses of oral antiviral drugs (Beravir and Remdesivir) and 156,000 doses of injectable Remdesivir in stock. 

    Health bureaus in various counties and cities will manage and allocate resources according to the usage at each distribution point. The public can rest assured.

Source: 

Link: https://www.cdc.gov.tw/Bulletin/Detail/I6r18LGy_-Y1I2Fj72gO2w?typeid=9

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#Bundibugyo virus disease: #transmission dynamics, infectiousness and viral #persistence

 

Abstract

BVD is a severe filoviral haemorrhagic fever caused by the Bundibugyo virus (BDBV), for which outbreak-related evidence remains limited compared with that available for Zaire ebolavirus. This perspective summarizes current evidence on transmission dynamics, presymptomatic infectiousness, post-recovery viral persistence and the duration of infectiousness, distinguishing BDBV-specific data from evidence extrapolated from other ortho-Ebolaviruses.

Available epidemiological data from the 2007–2008 outbreak in Uganda indicate that BDBV transmission occurs primarily through direct contact with the blood or body fluids of symptomatic or deceased individuals, with the handling of corpses representing a significant risk factor (adjusted odds ratio 3.83; 95% confidence interval 1.78–8.23).

The average incubation period is 6.3 days, and prolonged chains of transmission were documented in household and healthcare settings. No documented evidence of pre-symptomatic transmission in humans is currently available, although experimental animal data suggest biological plausibility.

No BDBV-specific data are available regarding viral persistence and duration of infectiousness. Consequently, current recommendations rely largely on evidence derived from other orthoebolaviruses. Viral RNA may persist after recovery in immunoprivileged sites, particularly in semen, with rare but documented episodes of delayed transmission. The ongoing outbreak highlights the need for BDBV-specific studies to strengthen the evidence base underpinning public health recommendations.

Source: 

Link: https://www.ijidonline.com/article/S1201-9712(26)00574-6/fulltext

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#Fact-finding #mission on #airport exit #screening - EU Health Task Force mission to #DRC and #Uganda, #Bundibugyo virus disease #outbreak 2026 (ECDC, summary)

 

Executive summary

    This report provides a snapshot of the infrastructure and procedures in place for exit screening in the main international airports of each capital city: N’djili International Airport in Kinshasa (DRC) and Entebbe International Airport in Kampala (Uganda). 

    Exit screening in these airports, including symptom checks and exposure assessment, can contribute to reducing the risk of onward transmission by identifying travellers who are symptomatic before they board, and preventing them travelling with symptoms. 

    It also helps dissuade people who are ill from travelling, and enhances public and stakeholder confidence in the public health response. 

    However, it cannot fully prevent the exportation of cases, as the absence of symptoms at departure does not exclude subsequent onset of disease upon or after arrival. 

    The mission team found that both countries have established coordinated exit screening systems, supported by strong political commitment and national leadership to prevent international transmission of Ebola disease. 

    These function alongside domestic containment efforts based on extensive experience of managing previous Ebola disease outbreaks. 

    In both countries, the mission team observed a high degree of transparency and willingness to engage with stakeholders through facilitating access to systems and operations. 

    The site visit at both airports demonstrated that the exit screening systems in place are in line with international standards and benefit from effective multi-sectoral collaboration, involving public health authorities, aviation actors, border services, security forces, and international partners. 

    Screening processes have clear referral and escalation pathways supported by trained medical personnel and infection, prevention and control (IPC) measures. 

    While the systems in place are functional, the mission identified opportunities for further targeted interventions, particularly in relation to passenger processing, digital integration, IPC measures and risk communication. 

    These findings have been communicated to the national authorities in both countries. 

    Regular training, supervision and monitoring over time by national teams and international partners will help to sustain and further improve practices.

Source: 

Link: https://www.ecdc.europa.eu/en/publications-data/fact-finding-mission-airport-exit-screening-eu-health-task-force-mission

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Road to the Saint-Simeon Farm, Claude Monet (1864)

 

{Click on Image to Enlarge}

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Public Domain.

Source: WikiArt, https://www.wikiart.org/

Link: https://www.wikiart.org/en/claude-monet/road-to-the-saint-simeon-farm

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#Genetic and biological characterization of a #reassortant #H3N2 swine #influenza virus isolated in #China with internal genes from the 2009 pandemic #H1N1

 

Abstract

Swine influenza virus (SIV) not only causes significant losses to the pig industry but also poses a potential threat to human health due to its ability for cross-species transmission and zoonotic characteristics. In this study, 600 nasal swab samples were collected from pigs in Shandong Province and tested for SIV using RT-qPCR. One sample tested positive, and the virus was successfully isolated in 10-day-old specific-pathogen-free (SPF) embryonated chicken eggs. Subtype-specific RT-PCR and sequencing identified the isolate as H3N2, designated A/swine/Shandong/116/2022 (H3N2). Whole-genome sequencing and similarity analysis showed that PB2, PB1, PA, NP, and M genes were most similar to H1N1 viruses (97.71–99.67%), while HA, NA, and NS genes were closest to H3N2 viruses (96.06–97.85%), suggesting this isolate is a reassortant between H1N1 and H3N2 viruses. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that PB2, PB1, PA, NP, and M genes belong to the 2009 pandemic H1N1 (pdm/09 H1N1) lineage, HA and NA genes belong to the human-like H3N2 (HL H3N2) lineage, and the NS gene belongs to the triple-reassortant (TR) H1N2 lineage. Key amino acid analysis showed a monobasic HA cleavage site (PEKQTR/G), consistent with low pathogenicity, and residues 190V, 226I, and 228S, which may affect receptor binding. PB2 residues 271A, 590S, and 591R may influence viral replication and host adaptation. Compared with the human influenza vaccine strain A/Darwin/9/2021 (H3N2), several amino acid changes were found in HA antigenic sites A, B, C, and E, suggesting possible antigenic drift. In addition, clear differences were found in N-linked glycosylation sites between the isolate and vaccine strain, including loss of several glycosylation sites and the appearance of a new site at position 499, which may change virus antigenicity and immune recognition. Functional studies demonstrated that the isolate efficiently infected MDCK cells and replicated in the respiratory tissues of BALB/c mice, causing mild to moderate lung lesions without mortality or significant weight loss. In summary, the isolated is a multi-source reassortant virus with low pathogenicity, providing valuable insights into the genetic characteristics and epidemiology of H3N2 SIV circulating in pigs in China.

Source: 

Link: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12866-026-05324-w

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