#Coronavirus Disease Research #References (AMEDEO, Oct. 24 '26)

 

Emerg Infect Dis

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   Post-COVID-19 Expansion of Streptococcus pyogenes Lineages Causing Toxic Shock Syndrome, Japan, 2023-2024.
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   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   
2. KYDYRMANOV A, Kassymbekov Y, Nuralibekov S, Sabyrzhan T, et al
   Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus in Camels, Kazakhstan, 2025.
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   Serologic Testing for Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus and SARS-CoV-2 Cross-Reactive Immune Responses, the Netherlands.
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   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   
4. HSIEH YC, Lin CC, Wu JW, Liu YH, et al
   Emergence of Novel Macrolide-Resistant Mycoplasma pneumoniae Sequence Type 3 Subclades in Children after COVID-19 Pandemic, Taiwan.
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   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   
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   Global Genomic Surveillance of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus.
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   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   

   
   Int J Infect Dis

6. LIU X, Hua Q, Dai R, Ma L, et al
   Humoral immune responses following inactivated COVID-19 vaccine with different booster intervals: a randomized interventional immunogenicity study.
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   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   
7. M TK, Karina AL, Alejandro DB, Maria de la Luz MO, et al
   Randomized controlled trial of pirfenidone XR for patients with COVID-19 and exploration of effects on long-COVID incidence.
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   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   
8. JANHA RE, Bah A, Sonko B, Mohammed NI, et al
   SARS-CoV-2 Seroprevalence and Antibody Dynamics in The Gambia During the Transition from Pandemic to Endemic Circulation - 2022 and 2023.
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   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   

   
   J Med Virol

9. M R K, Das S, Jain C, Dewan P, et al
   Respiratory Viral Infections in Febrile Children With Lymphoreticular Malignancies: A Single-Centre Descriptive Study.
   J Med Virol. 2026;98:e71180.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   
10. LEE SS, Chan DP, Wong BC, Cheung DKF, et al
    Resurgence of Sexually Transmitted Hepatitis C Virus Infection in Men Who Have Sex With Men Living With HIV.
    J Med Virol. 2026;98:e71185.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    

    
    J Travel Med

11. ALSHAHRANI NZ, Albeshry AM, Awan Z, Rashid H, et al
    Prevalence of respiratory viruses among pilgrims in Saudi Arabia during the Hajj 2026: a cross-sectional study.
    J Travel Med. 2026 Oct 19:taag093. doi: 10.1093.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
12. ALSHAHRANI AM, Okmi EA, Mohammed M, Abdalla O, et al
    Epidemiology of MERS-CoV in Saudi Arabia, 2012-2025: a nationwide surveillance analysis.
    J Travel Med. 2026 Oct 20:taag094. doi: 10.1093.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    

    
    J Virol

13. ULUSAN S, Markmann AJ, Vanna UP, Castillo I, et al
    Pooled intravenous immunoglobulins exhibit broad binding and Fc-mediated activity against diverse SARS-CoV-2 variants.
    J Virol. 2026 Oct 22:e0147126. doi: 10.1128/jvi.01471.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    

    
    JAMA

14. LEUNG PB, Davis AM, Marks KM
    Clinical Practice Guidelines on Antiviral Therapies for Adults With COVID-19 Infection-Reply.
    JAMA. 2026 Oct 22. doi: 10.1001/jama.2026.17751.
    PubMed        
    
    
15. TSENG CH, Liu PY, Yeh TK
    Clinical Practice Guidelines on Antiviral Therapies for Adults With COVID-19 Infection.
    JAMA. 2026 Oct 22. doi: 10.1001/jama.2026.17748.
    PubMed        
    
    
16. PUECHAL X, Pugnet G, Thoreau B, de Moreuil C, et al
    Rituximab vs Azathioprine for Eosinophilic Granulomatosis With Polyangiitis Maintenance Therapy: A Randomized Clinical Trial.
    JAMA. 2026 Oct 22. doi: 10.1001/jama.2026.15278.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    

    
    Science

17. KUPFERSCHMIDT K
    Vaccine trial is a ray of hope in Congo's Ebola epidemic.
    Science. 2026;394:364-365.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    

#Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses Research #References (AMEDEO, Oct. 24 '26)

 

BMC Pediatr

1. PHUNG NTN, Tran TT, Van Nguyen N, Nguyen DH, et al
   Anticoagulation therapy in children with SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia: a retrospective observational study on dosage, efficacy, and safety.
   BMC Pediatr. 2026;26:1035.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   

   
   Epidemiol Infect

2. OWUSU-BOAITEY N, Meyer MJ, Herrera-Esposito D, Bottcher L, et al
   Estimating COVID-19 cumulative incidence from seroprevalence surveys accounting for time-varying seroreversion: A fully Bayesian methodology.
   Epidemiol Infect. 2026;154:e137.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   

   
   J Infect

3. PENG S, Deng Y, Liu J, Du X, et al
   From detection to prediction: Asymptomatic shedding-informed mass-balance modeling predicts travel-borne viral importation at airports.
   J Infect. 2026;93:106866.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   
4. BERES SB, Pagnossin D, Olsen RJ, Long SW, et al
   Clinical and population genomic epidemiology of invasive group A streptococcus in Scotland, 2014-2024.
   J Infect. 2026 Sep 18:106860. doi: 10.1016/j.jinf.2026.106860.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   
5. ORTEGA-FRANCISCO S, Prudente de Aquino MT, Chiuppesi F, Gutierrez-Franco MA Jr, et al
   Phase 2 evaluation of two GEO-CM04S1 dose levels shows comparable safety and broad immunogenicity.
   J Infect. 2026;93:106855.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   
6. WALKER JL, Ribeiro S, Litt D, Patel T, et al
   Antenatal pertussis vaccine effectiveness in England remains high post COVID-19.
   J Infect. 2026;93:106836.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   

   
   J Virol

7. MEINEKE R, Knittler M-C, Tagore R, Engling N, et al
   Respiratory syncytial virus-induced ADAM17 activity controls maintenance of epithelial barrier integrity and promotes syncytium formation.
   J Virol. 2026;100:e0115026.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   
8. 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
   
   
9. RODRIGUEZ GALVAN J, de Vries M, Belblidia S, Fisher A, et al
   Airway protease availability governs a reversible shift between syncytial and cell-free spread.
   J Virol. 2026;100:e0072726.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   
10. ALVARADO RE, Chen J, Lokugamage KG, Zhou Y, et al
    Antagonism of stress granules is key to SARS-CoV-2 infection and pathogenesis.
    J Virol. 2026 Sep 8:e0099226. doi: 10.1128/jvi.00992.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    

    
    PLoS One

11. FOOX Y, Yamin D, Chalutz-BenGal H, Ben-Gal I, et al
    Applying normalized p-control charts for early detection of local COVID-19 outbreaks.
    PLoS One. 2026;21:e0357183.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
12. SONG A, Zuvia C, Talbot P
    Susceptibility of human neural stem cells to SARS-CoV-2: Entry mechanisms and glycocalyx influence.
    PLoS One. 2026;21:e0360734.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
13. THOMAS C, Ashton RE, Pretorius E, Owen R, et al
    Blood biomarkers of long COVID: A cross-sectional evaluation of key cytokines and the coordination of inflammation.
    PLoS One. 2026;21:e0360525.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
14. REDMAN WT, Mullany LC
    Data-driven forecasting of Flu, RSV, and COVID-19 related outcomes in the United States and Canada via Hankel dynamic mode decomposition.
    PLoS One. 2026;21:e0360068.
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15. MAHMOOD B, Hu J, Tang TS, Adu P, et al
    Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and control measures on type 2 diabetes care among South Asians: the perspective of healthcare providers in British Columbia, Canada.
    PLoS One. 2026;21:e0359295.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
16. JUHASZ L, Garba NA, Moise IK, Bhoite PB, et al
    The detection paradox: How COVID-19 surveillance patterns shifted from lower-income to more affluent neighborhoods in Miami-Dade County.
    PLoS One. 2026;21:e0361211.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    

    
    Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A

17. HVID U, Nielsen BF, Sneppen K
    Bridging spatial scales in respiratory viral infection.
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    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    

    
    Vaccine

18. KROKHIN A, Romanova J, Grillari R, Hackl M, et al
    AEX-1: A Vero cell variant with enhanced permissiveness for influenza virus replication.
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    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
19. XU S, Sy LS, Hong V, Farrington P, et al
    Ischemic stroke after bivalent mRNA COVID-19 vaccination and influenza vaccination during the 2022-2023 season: a multi-site self-controlled case series study.
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    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    

    
    Virology

20. RZYMSKI P, Malecka I, Szczepanska B, Wasielewska Z, et al
    RSV, influenza, and COVID-19 in hospitalized children: A comparative analysis of the 2025/2026 epidemic season in Poland.
    Virology. 2026;625:111104.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    

Can #Hantavirus cruise into the next #pandemic?

 

Abstract

Despite concerns arising from a recent ship-associated outbreak on the M/V Hondius cruise, current evidence suggests that Andes virus (ANDV) poses a low pandemic risk. Nevertheless, viral evolution, ecological changes, and reservoir host dynamics could drive future emergence of ANDV, underscoring the need for improved surveillance, diagnostics, therapeutics, and vaccine preparedness.

Source: 

Link: https://doi.org/10.1590/0074-02760260231

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#Australia, #H5 avian #influenza events in #wildlife (Dept. of Agriculture, Oct. 24 '26)

 

{Extract}

(...)

Event data

    ° 722 Positive events

    ° 68,587 Hotline reports

    As of 4pm AEST, 23 October 2026, Australia has 722 confirmed events of H5 bird flu in wildlife.

        § 10 in Western Australia (WA)

        § 335 in South Australia (SA)

        § 75 in New South Wales (NSW)

        § 2 in Queensland (QLD)

        § 246 in Victoria (VIC)

        § 53 in Tasmania (TAS)^

        § 1 in Other Territories#

    {^} Includes events on Macquarie Island

    {#} 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 since 20 June 2026. The Australian Government publishes this information for national reporting purposes. Responsibility for the accuracy, completeness and currency of the data remains with the jurisdiction. 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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#Kenya's Ministry of Health Announced One Additional #Fatality among the Nine Cases of #Bundibugyo Virus Disease Confirmed so far (MoH, Oct. 24 '26)

 

{From the Social Media Page of the Kenya's Ministry of Health}

OFFICE OF THE DIRECTOR GENERAL FOR HEALTH | PRESS RELEASE

MINISTRY OF HEALTH | REPUBLIC OF KENYA 

MINISTRY OF HEALTH MOURNS THE LOSS OF A PATIENT UNDER EBOLA  TREATMENT

Nairobi, 23th October 2026 | 2200Hrs

    

    The Ministry of Health is deeply saddened to announce the passing on of a 65-year-old  female patient, the third confirmed case of Ebola  (Bundibugyo Virus Disease) in Kenya. 

    She was a direct contact and close family member of the first case  (deceased) and was under quarantine when she developed symptoms on  13th October 2026.

    She was  admitted to the infectious disease unit on the same day and had  been receiving supportive care from our dedicated medical teams, who did  everything possible to save her life.

    Sadly, she succumbed to the disease early this evening.

    Her family has been formally informed of this sad event. On behalf of the  Government friends and community, and stands with them at this very difficult  moment. We kindly and the people of Kenya, the Ministry extends its heartfelt  condolences to her family, ask the public and the media to respect the family's  privacy as they mourn their loved one.

    The Ministry in consultation with the family is facilitating a safe and dignified  burial in accordance with our established public health protocols. 

    Trained teams will conduct the burial with respect for the family's wishes and  beliefs, while protecting the family and the community from further possible  infection.

    This loss brings the number of deaths to two (2) among the nine (9) confirmed  cases. 

    The remaining 7 patients continue to receive care in the two isolation facilities. 

    All cases remain within one cluster of known contacts, and there is no  evidence of community spread.

    Her passing is a painful reminder that Ebola is a serious disease that can  be fatal, and patients can change condition suddenly without warning. We urge all  Kenyans to continue upholding public health measures: avoid contact with the  blood or body fluids of a sick person, do not touch or handle the body of anyone  who has died of a suspected illness, wash hands regularly with soap and water,  and seek help immediately if you develop fever, weakness, muscle pain, vomiting,  diarrhoea or unexplained bleeding. 

    Call 719 free of charge or use the WhatsApp chatbot on 0700 719 719.

    Let us honour her memory by standing together, supporting affected families  with respect, dignity and compassion. Verily we belong to Allah and to him we shall return.

Dr. Patrick Amoth, CBS | DIRECTOR GENERAL

Source: 

Link: https://www.facebook.com/MinstryofHealthKE

____

History of Mass Transportation: The ASR Class at Hua Lamphong in the Regional Railways Livery

 

{Click on Image to Enlarge}

___

By SChirapant - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=8874221

Source: 

Link: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/State_Railway_of_Thailand_ASR_class

____

#Vector competence of #Aedes albopictus and #Culex quinquefasciatus for #Oropouche virus

 

Abstract

Oropouche virus (OROV) is an arthropod-borne virus transmitted mainly by Culicoides paraensis midges in Latin America and the Caribbean, though evidence suggests occasional transmission by mosquitoes. Oropouche fever has been reported primarily in the Amazon Basin since the 1950s. In 2024, the number of Oropouche fever cases rose sharply and spread beyond the Amazon region, which has been associated with the emergence of a new reassortant OROV strain. We assessed whether increased case numbers could be explained by enhanced replication or transmission of the reassortant strain in peri-urban Culex quinquefasciatus and Aedes albopictus. Laboratory colonies established from Salvador, Brazil were orally exposed to the ancestral OROV strain BeAn 19991 or the contemporary strain 240023 (10⁴–10⁶ PFU/mL), and viral replication was quantified in bodies, legs, and saliva. To evaluate the influence of mosquito genotype on infection outcomes, infection rates were compared between Ae. albopictus from Salvador City (Brazil) and Houston (USA). In Cx. quinquefasciatus, the outbreak strain replicated less efficiently than the historical strain at low viral doses but not at high infection doses. Regardless of strain or dose, vector competence was extremely low, with only 0–1% of mosquitoes exhibiting infectious OROV particles in their saliva after extrinsic incubation. Conversely, Ae. albopictus showed consistently higher body infection rates for the 240023 strain than for BeAn 19991 at both low and high doses. However, overall transmission potential remained limited: only 0–6.4% of leg or saliva samples were positive across OROV strains and doses. The higher infection rates of the 240023 strain was consistent across both Ae. albopictus genotypes, but infectious saliva was detected only in mosquitoes from the Salvador line (up to 20%) and not in the Houston line (0%). Taken together, this suggests that the recent geographic expansion of OROV is unlikely to be driven by a vector shift from midges to these mosquitoes. Importantly, our findings do indicate higher infectivity of the 240023 strain in Ae. albopictus across different mosquito lines which may have future implications for further adaptation to OROV.

Source: 

Link: https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pntd.0014656

____

#Ebola disease caused by #Bundibugyo virus - #DRC, #Kenya and #Nigeria (#WHO D.O.N., Oct. 23 '26)

{Extracts}

Situation at a glance

    Since the publication of the previous Disease Outbreak News on 8 October 2026, the Bundibugyo virus disease (BVD) outbreak has expanded geographically in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, as well as in the African Region, with Kenya and Nigeria reporting imported cases. 

    Sustained, high-level transmission continues in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. 

    As of 20 October 2026, a total of 9704 confirmed cases, including 4687 deaths (crude case fatality ratio: 48.3%), have been reported across 66 health zones in eight provinces. 

    The high proportion of deaths occurring in communities continues to highlight challenges in early case detection and timely access to appropriate care. 

    Of the 482 deaths reported since the previous update, 307 occurred in communities and 175 in treatment centres. 

    On 6 October 2026, the Ministry of Health of Kenya reported the first laboratory-confirmed imported case of BVD in Kenya in an individual who had travelled from the Democratic Republic of the Congo to Kenya via Uganda. 

    As of 20 October 2026, a total of nine cases of BVD including one death, has been reported in Kenya. 

    The eight additional cases are all known contacts of the first imported case. 

    There is currently no evidence of wider community transmission. 

    On 20 October 2026, Nigeria confirmed an imported case in the Federal Capital Territory Abuja in a patient who had travelled from Uganda to the country. 

    The patient is currently in isolation and receiving medical care. Further investigations are ongoing to better understand the complete travel history and the possible source of exposure. 

    These developments underscore the need for sustained readiness in the region, including cross-border surveillance, points of entry monitoring, timely case detection and coordinated preparedness and response measures. 

    WHO advises against any restriction of travel to, or trade with, affected countries.

Description of the situation

    Since the previous Disease Outbreak News was published on 8 October 2026, additional confirmed cases and deaths have been reported in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

    Cases have been reported in five countries since the declaration of the outbreak on 15 May 2026: the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda, France, and more recently, Kenya and Nigeria. 

    Nigeria is the fifth country affected by the ongoing outbreak, highlighting the continued risk of cross-border transmission.  

Democratic Republic of the Congo

    An additional 976 confirmed cases, including 482 confirmed deaths, have been reported in the Democratic Republic of the Congo since the previous Disease Outbreak News was published.

    In the most recent 24-hour period, as of 20 October, 67 new confirmed cases were reported, with Ituri accounting for 37 cases, Nord Kivu for 29, and Tshopo for one case. No new cases were reported in Bas-Uélé, Haut-Uélé, Nord Ubangi, Sud Kivu or Sud-Ubangi during that period.

    As of 20 October, cumulative confirmed cases have reached 9704, including 4687 deaths and 2595 recoveries. The overall crude CFR is 48.3%.

    Confirmed cases have now been identified in 66 health zones across eight provinces. Fifty of the 66 affected zones reported at least one new case during the preceding 21 days, while 16 reported no recent cases. Mandima, Beni and Bunia have reported the highest number of cases and deaths in the preceding 21 days. 

    Ituri remains the most extensively affected province, with 28 of 36 health zones reporting cases during this outbreak, followed by Nord Kivu (17/34), Haut-Uélé (7/13), Tshopo (7/23), Bas-Uélé (4/11), Sud Kivu (1/34), Sud-Ubangi (1/16) and Nord-Ubangi (1/11). Nord-Ubangi is the most recently affected province reporting three confirmed cases including one death and Dakwa in Haut-Uélé is the most recently affected health zone.

(...)

    Ituri remains the epicentre, with 7040 cumulative confirmed cases and 3271 deaths. 

    Nord Kivu follows with 2146 confirmed cases and 1199 deaths, and continues to record the highest provincial CFR, at 55.9%. 

    Haut-Uélé has reported 421 cases and 183 deaths, while Tshopo has recorded 76 cases and 27 deaths. 

    The less-affected provinces continue to report substantially fewer cases, but transmission persists in several of them. 

    The continued occurrence of cases across multiple provinces shows that the outbreak remains geographically active even as intensity varies between health zones.

    Out of 30 130 contacts under follow-up across six provinces, 24 017 were seen in the last 24 hours corresponding to a follow-up rate of 79.7%, up from 77.8% the previous day, but remaining below the required threshold of 95.0%. Two provinces were at or above the 95.0% threshold: Bas-Uélé (98.9%; 740/748) and Sud-Ubangi (97.3%; 109/112). Four provinces were below the threshold: Haut-Uélé (89.9%; 1286/1430), Ituri (92.8% (6382/6879), with 7 contacts becoming suspected cases, Tshopo (83.7%; 1077/12 086) and Nord-Kivu (73.3%; 14 423/19 675), with performance in Nord-Kivu remaining insufficient. Strengthened contact follow-up is required, particularly in provinces below the target, to achieve the minimum threshold of 95%.

(...)

Kenya

    On 6 October 2026, the Ministry of Health of Kenya reported its first laboratory-confirmed imported case of BVD in an adult male who had travelled from the Democratic Republic of the Congo via Uganda by road and arrived in Nairobi on 3 October by air. The case had been ill with other comorbidities for approximately one month and received care at several hospitals in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. He was isolated upon arrival at a hospital in Nairobi. Samples collected on 5 October tested positive for Bundibugyo virus at two national laboratories. Despite supportive care, the patient died on 5 October and was given a safe and dignified burial on 6 October.

    As of 20 October 2026, a total of nine cases, including one death, has been reported in Kenya.  All eight secondary cases are epidemiologically linked to the imported index case and associated with one cluster. They include four family members and four health and care workers. All new cases were under quarantine at the time of symptom onset and are currently in isolation and receiving appropriate supportive care and treatment at two designated facilities.

    There is currently no evidence of transmission outside this cluster.

    As of 20 October, all of the 135 contacts have been traced and quarantined.

(...)

Nigeria

    On 20 October 2026, Nigeria reported one laboratory-confirmed imported case of BVD in the Federal Capital Territory Abuja, becoming the fifth country to detect the virus since the outbreak was declared in the Democratic Republic of the Congo on 15 May 2026. The case developed symptoms on 7 October, four days after arriving in Nigeria, sought care in Abuja on 11 October and tested positive for Bundibugyo virus on 20 October 2026. The case is currently in isolation and receiving medical care.

    As of 20 October, 44 contacts had been identified and are being monitored. National authorities, with support from WHO and partners, have intensified contact tracing, case investigation and infection prevention and control measures, including the provision of essential supplies and personal protective equipment for health workers. Investigations are ongoing to establish the likely source of infection and reconstruct the travel and exposure history. WHO has urged countries across the region to strengthen surveillance, laboratory diagnostic capacity, rapid response readiness and cross-border preparedness to mitigate the risk of further transmission.

(...)

WHO risk assessment

    On 14 August 2026, WHO reassessed the risk of the outbreak of BVD. The risk for countries sharing land borders with the Democratic Republic of the Congo was separated from the risk for other countries in the African Region.

    The risk in the Democratic Republic of the Congo was assessed as very high, the risk for countries sharing land borders with the Democratic Republic of the Congo was assessed as high, and the risks for the rest of the African region and at the global level was again assessed as low. For further information, please see WHO Rapid Risk Assessment-Ebola disease caused by Bundibugyo virus, Democratic Republic of the Congo v4.

    In light of the evolving situation and newly available information, the rapid risk assessment is currently being revised to reassess the risk in affected countries, the African region and globally.  

Source: 

Link: https://www.who.int/emergencies/disease-outbreak-news/item/2026-DON622

____

#Threat #assessment brief – Importation of #Ebola disease cases caused by #Bundibugyo virus to #Kenya and #Nigeria – 23 October 2026 (ECDC, edited)

 

{Extract}

23 October 2026

Kenya and Nigeria have recently reported imported Ebola disease cases in their countries. In Kenya, the detection of an imported case was reported in Nairobi, where secondary cases were also reported. In Nigeria, a case in a person with travel history to Uganda was detected in Abuja. This has occurred in the context of the ongoing outbreak of Ebola disease caused by Bundibugyo virus (BDBV) in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), and cases reported in Uganda this spring. 

    This Threat Assessment Brief assesses the risk for people from the EU/EEA living in or travelling to the newly affected areas, and the overall risk for the general EU/EEA population. It is intended for public health authorities in the EU/EEA.

Epidemiological situation

    On 20 October 2026, Nigeria reported one confirmed Ebola disease case caused by BDBV in a person who travelled from Uganda via an international flight on 3 October 2026. 

    Symptom onset was on 7 October and the person was admitted to hospital on 11 October. 

    The confirmation of Ebola disease caused by BDBV was made on 20 October. 

    Contact tracing is currently under way, with 44 contacts being followed up.

    As of 23 October 2026, Kenya has reported nine confirmed Ebola disease cases caused by BDBV, including one death. 

    The first individual, reported on 6 October, developed symptoms while in DRC and travelled to Kenya via Uganda on 3 October. 

    All eight secondary cases (four relatives and four healthcare workers) were linked to the first imported case and were in quarantine when they developed symptoms. 

    Contact tracing activities are ongoing in Kenya, with all listed contacts (135 people) being followed up as of 22 October 2026.

    As of 21 October 2026, 9 704 confirmed Ebola disease cases caused by BDBV, including 4 687 deaths, have been reported from eight provinces in DRC (data until 20 October 2026), where community transmission is still ongoing. 

    In Uganda, a total of 20 cases, including two deaths were reported since 15 May 2026. 

    The last confirmed case in Uganda was reported on 21 June 2026.

Risk assessment

    The likelihood of infection for people from the EU/EEA living in or travelling to affected areas in Kenya and Nigeria is assessed as low, providing they adhere to recommended precautionary measures. 

    Although infection with BDBV leads to severe disease at an individual level, the impact for people from the EU/EEA living in and travelling to affected areas in Kenya and Nigeria is considered low at the population level. 

    Therefore, overall, the current risk for people from the EU/EEA living or travelling to affected areas in Kenya and Nigeria is considered low.

    Based on the experience from the current and previous Ebola disease outbreaks in Africa, it is expected that the importation of cases to Europe will remain rare events and will mainly concern medical evacuations for treatment. 

    The likelihood of secondary transmission of BDBV and sustained transmission within the EU/EEA following an imported case is considered very low, as cases are likely to be promptly identified and isolated, and recommended control measures would be implemented. 

    The population-level public health impact in the EU/EEA is expected to be very low as only very few cases are expected. 

    Therefore, the overall risk of BDBV for the general population in the EU/EEA is assessed as very low.

Recommendations

    EU/EEA countries should remain vigilant, strengthen their preparedness and response capabilities for detecting and managing potential imported Ebola disease cases, and provide travel advice to people living in and travelling to/from affected areas.

    ECDC does not recommend any travel restrictions for travellers to or from Kenya and Nigeria. Exit screening from the affected areas and countries, including symptom checks and exposure assessments is an important measure that contributes to reducing the risk by identifying symptomatic travellers before they board, and preventing them travelling while symptomatic.

    Entry screening of incoming travellers from areas affected in the current outbreak is not proven to be an efficient measure to detect imported cases, and is also a highly complex public health intervention.

(...)

Source: 

Link: https://www.ecdc.europa.eu/en/publications-data/threat-assessment-brief-importation-ebola-disease-cases-caused-bundibugyo-virus

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#USA, #Wastewater Data for Avian #Influenza #H5 (CDC, Oct. 23 '26)

{Extract}

(...)

A(H5) detections in the past week

Time Period: October 11, 2026 - October 17, 2026

    -- A(H5) Detection: 3 site(s) (0.9%)

    -- No Detection: 331 site(s) (99.1%)

    -- No samples: 260 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 updates (ECDC, Oct. 23 '26): 1,965 cases of which 770 in #Italy

{Summary}

(...)

Current situation

    Since the beginning of the 2026 transmission season, and as at 21 October, 229 areas affected by West Nile virus (WNV) have been identified in 20 countries across Europe.

    These areas are located in: 

        § Italy (70), 

        § France (30), 

        § Greece (25), 

        § Romania (24), 

        § the Netherlands (16), 

        § Serbia (11), 

        § Bulgaria (7), 

        § Belgium (6), 

        § Croatia (6), 

        § Germany (6), 

        § Spain (6), 

        § North Macedonia (5), 

        § Hungary (4), 

        § Kosovo (4), 

        § Austria (3), 

        § Albania (2), 

        § Cyprus (1), 

        § Moldova (1), 

        § Slovakia (1) and 

        § Slovenia (1).

    This week, seven areas are reported as affected for the first time this season. (...)

    The 20 countries have reported 1 965 locally acquired human cases of WNV infection: 

        § Italy (770 cases), 

        § Greece (457 cases of which 6 had an unknown place of infection), 

        § France (173 cases), 

        § Spain (145 cases), 

        § Romania (125 cases), 

        § North Macedonia (71 cases), 

        § the Netherlands (63 cases of which 1 had an unknown place of infection), 

        § Serbia (59 cases), 

        § Cyprus (21 cases), 

        § Croatia (18 cases), 

        § Belgium (15 cases), 

        § Austria (8 cases), 

        § Bulgaria (8 cases), 

        § Kosovo (8 cases), 

        § Albania (7 cases), 

        § Germany (7 cases), 

        § Hungary (5 cases), 

        § Slovenia (3 cases), 

        § Moldova (1 case) and 

        § Slovakia (1 case).

(...)

Source: 

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

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

 

{Extract}

(...)

    The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration has established a 3 km and 10 km zone around the poultry holding and is implementing the necessary measures in accordance with the European Union Animal Health Law.

    On 22 October 2026 a clinical suspicion was reported to the Danish Veterinary and Food Authority. 

    The affected poultry holding consist of 40.000 turkeys. 

    On 23 October 2026 highly pathogenic avian influenza sub. H5N1 was confirmed by the national reference laboratory. 

    A 3 km protection zone and a 10 km surveillance zone has been established.

(...)

Source: 

Link: https://wahis.woah.org/#/in-review/7932

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First #human case of #Shamonda virus reported in #France as patient dies (UN News Centre, Oct. 23 '26)

 

The virus is mainly found in livestock, especially cattle, sheep, goats, horses and alpacas.

    It is thought to be spread by the bites of midges – tiny biting flies – though the World Health Organization (WHO) has said further studies are needed to understand how it is transmitted.

    There are currently no commercially available vaccines against Shamonda virus, according to the internationally recognised World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH).

Vulnerable patient

    The unidentified patient, who died in early October, had been receiving treatment for a serious illness and was immunocompromised, making him more vulnerable to infection than the general public, according to a statement from the French health and agriculture ministries.

    French authorities say that no health risk to the general public has been identified so far.

    He had been in an area where the virus was circulating among animals and where Culicoides midges were present, WHO said.

    The UN health agency’s Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus expressed his condolences to the man’s loved ones.

    He said WHO was working with French authorities to establish how the patient became infected, possible routes of transmission and any potential risk to public health.

Source: 

Link: https://news.un.org/en/story/2026/10/1168652

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#Australia, #H5 avian #influenza events in #wildlife (Dept. of Agriculture, Oct. 23 '26)

 

{Extract}

(...)

Event data

    ° 720 Positive events

    ° 68,254 Hotline reports

    As of 4pm AEST, 22 October 2026, Australia has 720 confirmed events of H5 bird flu in wildlife.

        § 10 in Western Australia (WA)

        § 335 in South Australia (SA)

        § 73 in New South Wales (NSW)

        § 2 in Queensland (QLD)

        § 246 in Victoria (VIC)

        § 53 in Tasmania (TAS)^

        § 1 in Other Territories#

    {^} Includes events on Macquarie Island

    {#} 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 since 20 June 2026. The Australian Government publishes this information for national reporting purposes. Responsibility for the accuracy, completeness and currency of the data remains with the jurisdiction. 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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#Kenya: #Bundibugyo Virus Disease Cluster of Cases - Day 17: No New Cases, All Contacts Traced, and First Contacts Set To Return Home (MoH, Oct. 22 '26)

{From the Social Media Page}

MINISTRY OF HEALTH | REPUBLIC OF KENYA | OFFICE OF THE DIRECTOR GENERAL FOR HEALTH | PRESS RELEASE

DAY 17: NO NEW CASES, ALL CONTACTS TRACED, AND FIRST CONTACTS SET TO RETURN HOME

Nairobi, 22nd October 2026

    Today marks Day 17 since Kenya confirmed its first imported case of Ebola (Bundibugyo Virus Disease) on 06th October 2026, and the country's  response continues to make steady progress. 

    All the 14 samples collected and tested from various alerts in different  parts of the country over the last 24 hours were negative for BVD.

    The total number of cases confirmed remains nine (9), including the  index case, who died on 05th October, 2026. 

    All the cases belong to a single cluster, with no evidence of community spread.

    Our patients are stable and progressing well. 

    The eight patients undergoing treatment in our designated isolation  facilities, four family members and four health workers who cared for the first  case, are stable and responding well to treatment from our infectious disease  specialists. 

    We look forward to each of them completing treatment, recovering fully,  and being discharged home to their families.

    Every contact has been traced, at home and abroad. 

    All the 135 contacts associated with the first case have been traced (100%),  both within Kenya and internationally, and the relevant health authorities of  the countries concerned have been formally informed in line with the International  Health Regulations (2005). 

    We thank our national and county contact-tracing teams, families,  communities and our development partners for this significant achievement.

    What we know about how the infections occurred. Our epidemiologists  have mapped the exposure dates, quarantine dates, and symptom onset of every  case. Each patient was in close contact with the first case between 3rd and 5th  October, before entering quarantine, and each fell ill within the known incubation  period of Ebola (2-21 days). This pattern is consistent with infection from the first  case. It also shows that no infection has been traced to transmission within our  quarantine facilities, where infection prevention and control measures have been  strengthened further. 

    Each contact's 21-day monitoring period is counted from their own last  exposure, and anyone exposed to a later confirmed case is monitored from that  date thereof.

    Surveillance and testing continue nationwide. Enhanced surveillance  continues in health facilities and communities across all counties. 

    At points of entry, 709,093 travellers have been screened, including 3,107 in  the last 24 hours. A total of 461 samples have been tested since the start of the  outbreak in May 2026. 

    Going home this weekend. From Sunday, 25th October, the first contacts to  complete 21 days of monitoring and who will be in good health, will be released  from quarantine and reunited with their families. Their sacrifice has helped keep  Kenya safe, and the nation is grateful to them and to those who stood by them. As  they return, we ask neighbours, workplaces and communities to receive them  warmly. They have passed the full monitoring period without falling ill and cannot  pass the infection to anybody.

    Life in Kenya continues as normal: travel, trade and public gatherings are  not restricted. Every Kenyan can help bring this outbreak to a close. We ask you  to keep following the guidance of the Ministry of Health and to cooperate fully with  the response teams. Anyone with fever, unusual tiredness, muscle or joint  pains, sore throat, vomiting, diarrhoea or unexplained bleeding should seek help  immediately at the nearest health facility, by calling 719 free of charge, or through  Jali our WhatsApp chatbot on 0700 719 719. Let us stand with our  patients, contacts and health workers with compassion, not stigma. The end of  this outbreak is within reach, and together we will get there.

Dr. Patrick Amoth, CBS | DIRECTOR GENERAL

Source: 

Link: https://www.facebook.com/MinstryofHealthKE?__tn__=%2Cd-UC*F

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