View from the Dunes with Beach and Piers, Piet Mondrian (1909)

 

Public Domain.

Source: 

Link: https://www.wikiart.org/en/piet-mondrian/view-from-the-dunes-with-beach-and-piers-1909

____

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

 

Ann Intern Med

1. ALBALOUL H, Nemer A, Saini N, Schuster MG, et al
   Infectious Diseases: What You May Have Missed in 2025.
   Ann Intern Med. 2026 Apr 14:e2600983. doi: 10.7326/ANNALS-26-00983.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   

   
   BMJ

2. DAVIES SR, Davies AL, Higgins JPT, Caldwell DM, et al
   Effectiveness of interventions to increase vaccine uptake: component network meta-analysis.
   BMJ. 2026;393:e087578.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   
3. PAGEL C
   The UK Covid-19 Inquiry lays bare the cost of delayed action for NHS staff.
   BMJ. 2026;393:s696.
   PubMed        
   
   

   
   Clin Infect Dis

4. THORPE A, Lee RA, Szymczak JE, Farrell MC, et al
   Comparing the Antimicrobial Resistance Crisis to the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic: A Randomized Public Health Messaging Experiment.
   Clin Infect Dis. 2026 Apr 8:ciag110. doi: 10.1093.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   

   
   Emerg Infect Dis

5. ISMAIL H, Perovic O, Mpembe R, Lowman W, et al
   Accelerated Increase in Candida auris Bloodstream Infections during COVID-19 Pandemic, South Africa.
   Emerg Infect Dis. 2026;32:563-572.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   
6. ANDRES C, Prats-Mendez I, Midgley S, Berginc N, et al
   Circulation Patterns, Genetic Diversity, and Public Health Implications of Enterovirus D68, Europe, 2014-2024.
   Emerg Infect Dis. 2026;32:491-499.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   

   
   Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol

7. DUROCHER F, Dufresne SF, Dufresne PJ, Marchand-Senecal X, et al
   Healthcare-associated Pneumocystis jirovecii transmission in the era of universal masking and distancing.
   Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol. 2026 Apr 13:1-6. doi: 10.1017/ice.2026.10446.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   

   
   Int J Infect Dis

8. NGIAM JN, Yap AJ, Wee LE, Koh MCY, et al
   Parental Vaccination Status and Other Socioeconomic Determinants Shaping COVID-19 Vaccine Uptake in Children and Adolescents in Singapore.
   Int J Infect Dis. 2026 Apr 15:108686. doi: 10.1016/j.ijid.2026.108686.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   
9. ALI AS, Vanoli E, Smati-Lafarge M, Boudjemaa A, et al
   Computational Fluid Dynamics and Genotyping to explore Airborne Transmission of Respiratory Viruses in Hospitals.
   Int J Infect Dis. 2026 Apr 9:108697. doi: 10.1016/j.ijid.2026.108697.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   
10. GARDINER LE, Lozano-Rojas D, Smith N, Espley J, et al
    Investigating prognostic classifications of pre-existing multiple long-term conditions for health outcomes one-year after COVID-19 hospitalisation: a UK prospective observational study.
    Int J Infect Dis. 2026 Apr 9:108695. doi: 10.1016/j.ijid.2026.108695.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    

    
    Intensive Care Med

11. MYATRA SN, Nasa P, Chanchalani GP, Zimmerman JL, et al
    Gender equality and equity in intensive care: an international Delphi consensus study.
    Intensive Care Med. 2026 Apr 15. doi: 10.1007/s00134-026-08394.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    

    
    J Med Virol

12. MULLER V, Kolditz M, Shvachko V, Oppelt T, et al
    Effectiveness of Remdesivir on All-Cause In-Hospital Mortality in Patients With Chronic Respiratory Comorbidities Who Are Hospitalized With COVID-19 in the United States.
    J Med Virol. 2026;98:e70926.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
13. CAPPARELLI E, Maggiolini D, Paschale M, Pavia C, et al
    Changes in ANA Positivity Following SARS-CoV-2 Outbreak in Lombardy Region, Italy.
    J Med Virol. 2026;98:e70927.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    

    
    J Virol

14. RAHEJA H, Sahu R, Ghosh T, Paul S, et al
    HuR enhances SARS-CoV-2 non-structural protein translation through the genomic 5'-UTR, by promoting polypyrimidine tract-binding protein binding.
    J Virol. 2026 Apr 16:e0027626. doi: 10.1128/jvi.00276.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    

    
    JAMA

15. RUBIN R
    What to Know About Cicada, or BA.3.2, the Latest SARS-CoV-2 Variant Under Monitoring.
    JAMA. 2026 Apr 17. doi: 10.1001/jama.2026.5535.
    PubMed        
    
    

    
    Life Sci

16. BARTOLOMEO CS, Lemes RMR, Morais RL, Pereria GC, et al
    Corrigendum to "SARS-CoV-2 infection and replication kinetics in different human cell types: The role of autophagy, cellular metabolism and ACE2 expression" [Life Sciences 308 (2022) 120930].
    Life Sci. 2026 Apr 9:124367. doi: 10.1016/j.lfs.2026.124367.
    PubMed        
    
    

    
    Nat Ment Health

17. HIDALGO-PADILLA L, Gogarty E, Sarkodie R, Gaughran F, et al
    Primary care consultation modality and acute mental health service use in adults.
    Nat Ment Health. 2026;4:574-581.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    

    
    Nature

18. STEINER C
    Almost half of traded wildlife carries disease-causing pathogens.
    Nature. 2026 Apr 9. doi: 10.1038/d41586-026-01121.
    PubMed        

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

 

Biochem Biophys Res Commun

1. CHEN M, Chen W, Jiang X, Liang S, et al
   Virtual screening targeting the conserved domain of the IAV M2 protein reveals the potential broad-spectrum anti-IAV activity of ajmaline.
   Biochem Biophys Res Commun. 2026;814:153643.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   

   
   BMJ

2. DAVIES SR, Davies AL, Higgins JPT, Caldwell DM, et al
   Effectiveness of interventions to increase vaccine uptake: component network meta-analysis.
   BMJ. 2026;393:e087578.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   

   
   Drug Saf

3. HWANG CS, Lu Z, Russo M, Zakoul H, et al
   Physician Awareness of FDA's Relaxation of REMS-Required Laboratory Testing Requirements and Changes in Prescribing Practices During the COVID-19 Pandemic.
   Drug Saf. 2026;49:519-528.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   
4. COATES MM, Rowe SL, Sullivan SG, Munoz FM, et al
   Assessing the Use of Medical Insurance Claims and Electronic Health Records to Measure COVID-19 Vaccination During Pregnancy.
   Drug Saf. 2026;49:567-580.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   
5. RACHWAL O, Gutierrez-Lobon M, Cueto NS, Ventura AN, et al
   Evaluating COVID-19 Vaccine Masking and Unmasking Methods in Two National Pharmacovigilance Databases.
   Drug Saf. 2026;49:581-590.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   
6. JAJOU R, van Puijenbroek E, Overbeek J, Hek K, et al
   GP Consultations for Herpes Zoster After COVID-19 Vaccination: A Self-Controlled Cohort Study Based on Electronic Health Record Data from the Netherlands.
   Drug Saf. 2026;49:529-539.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   

   
   Epidemiol Infect

7. GONZALES BE, Ochoa TJ, van der Sande MAB
   Inequalities in complete pneumococcal vaccination among Peruvian children before and after the COVID-19 pandemic: An evaluation using demographic and health surveys from 2018 to 2023.
   Epidemiol Infect. 2026;154:e49.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   
8. KIMURA M, Asai Y, Tsuzuki S, Shimizu Y, et al
   Effectiveness of voluntary PCR testing against COVID-19 spread in remote Japanese islands.
   Epidemiol Infect. 2026;154:e48.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   

   
   J Virol Methods

9. ASGHARI M, Golalipour M, Memarian A, Farazmandfar T, et al
   Presentation of multiple copies of a non-dominant surface epitope by circular RNA effectively induce an immune response against SARS-CoV-2.
   J Virol Methods. 2026;343:115378.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   
10. CHIBA S
    Therapeutic mechanisms of early oseltamivir administration in the management of mild COVID-19 through the sympathetic nervous system: A scoping review.
    J Virol Methods. 2026;343:115386.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    

    
    Lancet

11. JOHANSEN ND, Seco JP, Martinon-Torres F, Biering-Sorensen T, et al
    Unclear benefits of higher doses of influenza vaccine - Authors' reply.
    Lancet. 2026;407:1426.
    PubMed        
    
    
12. FLAHAULT A
    Unclear benefits of higher doses of influenza vaccine.
    Lancet. 2026;407:1425-1426.
    PubMed        
    
    

    
    PLoS Biol

13. SOLA I, Zuniga S
    New transcription signals in SARS-CoV-2 reshape virus-host interactions.
    PLoS Biol. 2026;24:e3003744.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    

    
    PLoS Comput Biol

14. JEONG YD, Hart WS, Ishikane M, Kim KS, et al
    Identifying the optimal rapid antigen test for screening and determining the end of isolation: A modeling study.
    PLoS Comput Biol. 2026;22:e1013102.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
15. ANOKYE F, Li MWZ, Walker S, Hurford A, et al
    Quantifying SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant spread and the impact of non-pharmaceutical interventions in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada.
    PLoS Comput Biol. 2026;22:e1013562.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    

    
    PLoS One

16. ABDELGHANY M, Yu F, Rennard S, Gwon Y, et al
    Bayesian reanalysis of early remdesivir for the treatment of COVID-19 in outpatients with high risk of progression to severe disease.
    PLoS One. 2026;21:e0346878.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
17. BERBER E, Hanley HB, Gamez BM, Ross TM, et al
    Assessment of hemagglutinin-inhibition activity following influenza vaccination during the 2022-2023, 2023-2024, and 2024-2025 seasons.
    PLoS One. 2026;21:e0347314.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
18. MURALIDHAR K, Ngaybe MGB, Pope B, Nanjaiah S, et al
    Behavioural and Social Drivers (BeSD) of COVID-19 vaccination for children: A cross-sectional study of parental vaccine confidence and intent in Mysore, India.
    PLoS One. 2026;21:e0316877.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
19. BHUPATHI M, Hegde S, Molloy JC, Devarapu GCR, et al
    MobileLAMP: A low-cost, portable incubation device for isothermal nucleic acid amplification.
    PLoS One. 2026;21:e0346874.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
20. SHIMAZU Y, Isoda N, Hiono T, Hew YL, et al
    Evaluation of therapeutic efficacy of baloxavir marboxil against high pathogenicity avian influenza virus infection in duck model.
    PLoS One. 2026;21:e0347205.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
21. GANGAT R, Ngah V, Tawonga R, Blanford JI, et al
    Spatial and temporal patterns of SARS-CoV-2 infection in uMgungundlovu, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.
    PLoS One. 2026;21:e0317648.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
22. VAN DUINKERKEN A, van der Velden PG, Duckers MLA, Baliatsas C, et al
    Revisiting the exposure criterion for PTSD: Using the COVID-19 pandemic as an opportunity to assess measurement invariance of PTSD symptoms across event types.
    PLoS One. 2026;21:e0347315.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
23. KITTUR ME, Jones BDM, Imran S, Wang W, et al
    Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on adults accessing specialist psychiatric care: A cross-sectional Canadian analysis.
    PLoS One. 2026;21:e0346913.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
24. CASJENS S, Hovanec J, Glaser N, Massag J, et al
    Occupational risk factors for depression and anxiety symptoms: Insights from a large cohort study during and after the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic.
    PLoS One. 2026;21:e0346871.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
25. JIANG KP, Bennett S, Yager P
    Heat-actuated valve implementation in a point-of-care, paper-based microfluidic device for infectious disease detection.
    PLoS One. 2026;21:e0344750.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
26. ABBAS U, Laghari RN, Ahmed I, Musawwir UA, et al
    Acute SARS-CoV-2 viral load and systemic inflammation are associated with neuropsychiatric and musculoskeletal symptoms in long COVID.
    PLoS One. 2026;21:e0346978.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
27. OZATO N, Hori S, Miyai N, Takase H, et al
    Association of visceral fat and plasmacytoid dendritic cell-derived interferon alpha with SARS-CoV-2 infection.
    PLoS One. 2026;21:e0344870.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
28. DIAS GF, Fan C, Han M, Wang X, et al
    COVID-19 in hemodialysis patients: New insights into metabolomic profile dynamics from 60 days pre- to 60 days post-diagnosis.
    PLoS One. 2026;21:e0346687.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
29. MOHTASHAM F, Hashemi Nazari SS, Pourhoseingholi MA, Kavousi K, et al
    Hybrid feature-selection and diversity-guided stacking framework for interpretable ensemble learning: Application to COVID-19 mortality prediction.
    PLoS One. 2026;21:e0341198.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
30. LEE SJ, Kim J, Han M, Lee JA, et al
    Distinct plasma cytokine and chemokine profiles in severe COVID-19 and septic shock.
    PLoS One. 2026;21:e0347126.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    

    
    Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A

31. GOLDMAN N, Pebley AR
    The Latino health experience: Past and future.
    Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2026;123:e2530795123.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
32. HUOT M, Wang D, Shakhnovich E, Monasson R, et al
    Constrained evolutionary funnels shape viral immune escape.
    Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2026;123:e2536956123.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
33. FARIAS A, Bridgeman VL, Rodrigues FS, Puttur F, et al
    Type I interferons induced upon respiratory viral infection impair lung metastatic initiation.
    Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2026;123:e2412919123.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    

    
    Vaccine

34. HSIEH SM, Choi MJ, Chen YC, Cheng SY, et al
    Cost-effectiveness of vaccination of older adults with an MF59(R)-adjuvanted quadrivalent influenza vaccine compared to standard-dose and high-dose vaccines in South Korea and Taiwan.
    Vaccine. 2026;80:128533.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
35. ANYALECHI EG, Marquez PL, Rubin MN, Johannsen SP, et al
    Safety of seasonal inactivated influenza vaccines in children 6 months-17 years of age in the Vaccine Adverse Events Reporting System (VAERS) 2018-2023: before, during, and after the COVID-19 pandemic public health emergency.
    Vaccine. 2026;81:128569.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    

    
    Virology

36. SWIERKOT J, Tyczynska KM, Siemaszko J, Madej M, et al
    The association of selected genetic polymorphisms with adverse events following COVID-19 vaccination: a single-centre prospective observational cohort study.
    Virology. 2026;619:110876.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
37. CHEN G, Liang D, Liu M, Lv Z, et al
    Theaflavins suppresses RSV infection by modulating the MAVS-I-IFN pathway.
    Virology. 2026;619:110872.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
38. LIU R, Patterson L, Yeasmin M, Kim KH, et al
    Low-dose multivalent COVID-19 mRNA vaccines enhance broadly cross-reactive antibodies and protective immune responses of co-administered protein-based vaccines.
    Virology. 2026;619:110884.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
39. WANG Z, Wongnak R, Oba M, Mizutani T, et al
    Omicron RBD expressed in E. coli outperforms mammalian-expressed S1 spike protein in generating highly neutralizing anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in mice.
    Virology. 2026;619:110894.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
40. RICHARDSON SAS, Boodhoo N, Bhat S, Wells J, et al
    Differential outcomes of viral co-infections with high pathogenicity avian influenza A(H5N6) and SARS-CoV-2 in mammalian in vitro systems.
    Virology. 2026;620:110912.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    

#Ocular findings in Northern #Gannets following an #outbreak of high pathogenicity avian #influenza #H5N1

 

Abstract

During 2021-2022, high pathogenicity avian influenza (HPAI) caused mass mortality in wild birds across Europe, with Northern Gannets (Morus bassanus) among the most affected. Following the outbreak, unusual alterations in the species' characteristic pale iris were observed in some individuals. Opportunistically captured gannets on Bass Rock (n=52), selected to represent a range of iris pigmentation, were examined. Slit-lamp biomicroscopy, indirect ophthalmoscopy, rebound tonometry and photography were performed. Iris pigmentation was classified as normal, mottled or black. Eleven birds underwent avian influenza virus (AIV) serology. Histopathology was performed on two eyes. Abnormal iris pigmentation was found in 74% of adult and immature gannets, with 61% affected bilaterally. Additional signs consistent with uveitis were present in 77% of affected birds. Iris pigmentation abnormalities were positively associated with AIV H5 seropositivity (Fishers exact test, P=0.018). Histopathology from affected eyes showed increased melanin deposition and disorganisation, including loss of a distinct anterior layer of melanocytic cells and hypertrophy of melanocytes within the iris stroma. Field conditions limited uniform lighting and concurrent serology. Iris pigmentation changes were associated with prior HPAI exposure and frequently accompanied by signs of uveitis, suggesting iris alterations may indicate past infection and potential chronic sequelae.

Competing Interest Statement

The authors have declared no competing interest.

Source: 

Link: https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.64898/2026.04.15.718625v1

____

Frequent seasonal #reassortment between high and low path #viruses drives the diversification of #influenza #H5N1

 

Abstract

Since 2021, highly pathogenic (HPAI) H5N1 viruses have spread across the Americas, diversifying via reassortment into new genotypes that have spilled into humans and livestock, raising fears of a new influenza pandemic. Pandemic lineages are typically associated with reassortment, but we currently have limited understanding of where and when reassortment is expected to occur, which limits our ability to assess pandemic risks. Using a dataset of 9,052 full-genome sequences, we show that reassortment and novel genotype formation are associated with seasonal variation in low pathogenicity avian influenza (LPAI) cases and with the spatial and host distributions of viral transmission. We pinpoint ducks, geese, and the Central flyway as frequent sources of new genotypes, and show that reassortment rates vary seasonally, driven by mixing between high- and low-pathogenicity viruses. Cattle spillover genotypes (B3.13 and D1.1) evolved during periods of high reassortment, implicating reassortment as a common occurrence in lineages evolving during particular time periods. Together, these findings reframe reassortment as a predictable ecological process, with direct implications for how surveillance and pandemic risk assessment should be designed.

Competing Interest Statement

The authors have declared no competing interest.

Funder Information Declared

US Centers for Disease Control Insight Net, CDC-RFA-FT-23-0069

Source: 

Link: https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.64898/2026.04.17.719307v1

____

History of Mass Transportation: The Skoda 242260-8 Electric locomotive class 242

 

By Rainerhaufe - http://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bild:242.jpg, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=4340624

Source: 

Link: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/%C4%8CD_Class_242

____

#Taiwan #CDC issued a #statement regarding journal research on transmission of viruses from farmed #shrimp in #China to #humans (Apr. 18 '26)

 

Recently, online discussions have focused on a study published in the international journal *Nature Microbiology*, which suggests that *Cryptant Dead Noda Virus* (CMNV), found in aquatic animals, may have the potential to spread across species to humans, potentially causing persistent high-tension viral anterior uveitis (POH-VAU). 

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) stated that currently only China has reported suspected human cases of CMNV, distributed across 18 provinces with high aquaculture activity. 

Major international public health organizations such as the WHO, the US CDC, and the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) have not reported any CMNV-related cases or listed it as an urgent threat. 

The CDC assesses the risk of domestic transmission as extremely low and will continue monitoring with agricultural authorities.

The CDC further explained that the study infers that human infection with CMNV may be related to handling or consuming raw seafood; however, further evidence is needed to confirm whether this virus has the ability to effectively infect human eye tissue. 

The Taiwan Centers for Disease Control (CDC) emphasizes that there have been no large-scale human outbreaks or community transmission events caused by CMNV globally at present, and there is no evidence of infection through the general consumption of cooked seafood. 

The CDC will continue to monitor relevant international outbreaks, develop human specimen testing technologies and methods, and establish relevant sampling and testing conditions for risk monitoring and early warning.

According to the monitoring of the Animal and Plant Health Inspection and Quarantine Bureau of the Ministry of Agriculture, there have never been any CMNV outbreaks in shrimp farms in Taiwan. 

The CDC's overall assessment is that the risk of domestic transmission is extremely low, but both agriculture and health authorities will continue to strengthen monitoring. 

CMNV has been listed as an emerging infectious disease by the World Organisation for Animal Health, and infection cases have been reported in shrimp farms in China and Thailand. 

The CDC urges travelers to China and Thailand to take special precautions against CMNV, including thoroughly cooking seafood, avoiding raw seafood for high-risk groups (such as those with chronic diseases), wearing gloves when handling raw seafood, avoiding direct contact with raw food if hands are open, and washing hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling to reduce the risk of infection by various pathogens.

Source: 

Link: https://www.cdc.gov.tw/Bulletin/Detail/JAKoFRedyjAVo_zmdBsCfQ?typeid=9

____

#USA, #Wastewater Data for Avian #Influenza #H5 (#CDC, April 17 '26)

 

{Excerpt}

(...)

Time Period: April 05, 2026 - April 11, 2026

-- A(H5) Detection: 6 site(s) (1.3%)

-- No Detection: 454 site(s) (98.7%)

-- No samples: 103 site(s)

(...)

Source: 

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

____

#UK, #England: #Antibiotics and MenB #vaccination to be offered to young people in #Dorset following 3 cases of invasive #meningococcal disease (UKHSA, Apr. 17 '26)

 

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is working with Dorset Council, the NHS and local partners following 3 confirmed cases of meningococcal infection (meningitis) in young people in Weymouth, Dorset.

The cases were confirmed between 20 March and 15 April. All have received treatment and are recovering well. Close contacts of the cases have already been offered antibiotics as a precaution.

Two of the cases attend Budmouth Academy and the other attends Wey Valley Academy. Further information about the signs and symptoms of meningitis has been shared with students and parents of both schools.

Around 300 to 400 cases of meningococcal disease are diagnosed in England every year. These 3 cases have been confirmed as Meningitis B (MenB) and are the same sub-strain type, but a different sub-strain to the one detected recently in Kent.

The 2 cases who attend Budmouth Academy are contacts of each other, but currently no confirmed epidemiological link has been made between these cases and the third individual who attends Wey Valley Academy. This may mean that this strain of MenB bacteria is transmitting more widely among young people in Weymouth. Due to this, and as an additional precautionary measure, antibiotics and MenB vaccination will now be offered to young people currently in school years 7 to 13 (or equivalent), or anyone not in full time education who would be in one of these year groups, who study in or live in the Weymouth, Portland and Chickerell areas of Dorset.

Dr Beth Smout, UKHSA Deputy Director said:

''We are working closely with partners to follow up and offer precautionary antibiotics to close contacts of the cases. However, meningococcal disease does not spread easily, and outbreaks like we have seen recently in Kent are rare. These cases are not linked to the Kent outbreak and it is important to be aware that this outbreak is not on the same scale as we saw in Kent in terms of speed of transmission or severity.

''However, it is possible that we will see further cases linked to these latest cases in Weymouth and we understand that there will be concern among students, staff, parents and the local community as we widen our offer of antibiotics and vaccination. I’d like to stress that this is an additional precaution, and that we’re following national guidelines to reduce the risk of the infection spreading. School pupils and staff should attend school as normal if they remain well.

UKHSA is now recommending a single dose of antibiotics and a meningitis B vaccine be offered to young people who live or go to school in the Weymouth area, as follows:

-- anyone who is a resident in Weymouth or Portland or Chickerell and is in current school years 7 to 13 (or equivalent), or anyone not in full time education who would be in one of these year groups

-- anyone who attends an educational setting in the Weymouth, Portland or Chickerell area and is in current school years 7 to 13 (or equivalent).

This will be offered in stages starting with Budmouth Academy and Wey Valley schools, as the cases attend these settings. Pupils that attend other schools and other eligible children in Weymouth who do not attend school will be invited after the weekend.

Young people under 16 should be accompanied by a parent or guardian who is able to provide consent at the time.

More information on the vaccination schedule will be provided in due course.

Dr Smout added:

''Meningococcal disease can progress rapidly, so it’s essential that everyone is alert to the signs and symptoms of meningococcal meningitis and septicaemia, which can include a fever, headache, rapid breathing, drowsiness, shivering, vomiting and cold hands and feet. Septicaemia can also cause a characteristic rash that does not fade when pressed against a glass. If the disease is suspected, you should seek immediate medical attention as the disease can progress rapidly.

''It’s also important for teenagers to ensure they take up the MenACWY vaccine routinely offered by the NHS – but also to be aware that this vaccine does not protect against Men B, which is why knowing the symptoms and seeking early treatment is so important.

Young people in school years 7 to 13 in Weymouth are strongly encouraged to take up the offer of antibiotics and MenB vaccination and we are grateful to all those involved in our investigations so far for assisting us.

UKHSA and Dorset Council have issued advice to staff, parents and carers at all educational settings in the area.

Anyone who becomes unwell with symptoms of meningitis and septicaemia should seek medical help urgently at the closest Accident and Emergency Department or by dialling 999. Early treatment can be lifesaving. If you’re not sure if your symptoms are serious, use NHS 111 online or call 111 for further advice.

Source: 

Link: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/antibiotics-and-menb-vaccination-to-be-offered-to-young-people-in-dorset

____

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

 

A poultry farm in the Lubelskie Region.

Source: 

Link: https://wahis.woah.org/#/in-review/7451

____

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

 

A poultry farm in the Chhattisgarh Region.

Source: 

Link: https://wahis.woah.org/#/in-review/7453

____

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

Wild Anatidae (unidentified) in the Yevrey Region.

Source: 

Link: https://wahis.woah.org/#/in-review/7426

____

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

 

A poultry farm in Araucanía Region.

Source: 

Link: https://wahis.woah.org/#/in-review/7456

____

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

 

-- In accordance with the WOAH Terrestrial Animal Health Code, Article 10.4.1, point 4, this outbreak does not change the disease-free status of Sweden as these are wild birds or birds kept in a single household, and therefore do not fall within the WOAH definition of poultry.

__

-- Tjörn: 

- A Whooper swan was found dead. It was sent to the Swedish Veterinary Agency for laboratory analysis as part of the national surveillance program for avian influenza.

-- Varberg: 

- A Eurasian Buzzard was found dead. It was sent to the Swedish Veterinary Agency for laboratory analysis as part of the national surveillance program for avian influenza.

- A Peregrin falcon was found dead. It was sent to the Swedish Veterinary Agency for laboratory analysis as part of the national surveillance program for avian influenza.

-- Nyköping: 

- An Eurasian buzzard was found dead. It was sent to the Swedish Veterinary Agency for laboratory analysis as part of the national surveillance program for avian influenza.

-- Södertälje: 

- A Eurasian jackdaw was found dead. It was sent to the Swedish Veterinary Agency for laboratory analysis as part of the national surveillance program for avian influenza.

-- Hallstahammar: 

- A Eurasian jackdaw was found dead. It was sent to the Swedish Veterinary Agency for laboratory analysis as part of the national surveillance program for avian influenza.

-- Växjö: 

- A Canada goose and a Greylag goose were found dead and sent to the Swedish Veterinary Agency for laboratory analysis as part of the national surveillance program for avian influenza.

Source: 

Link: https://wahis.woah.org/#/in-review/7452

____

#Infection of the #bovine mammary #gland by avian #H5N1 subclade 2.3.4.4b #influenza viruses

 

Abstract

The emergence of the panzootic clade of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 (2.3.4.4b) in 2020 marked a major expansion in the host range of influenza A viruses (IAVs), raising concerns about further cross‑species transmission events and zoonotic spillover. Introduction of 2.3.4.4b viruses into U.S. dairy herds has resulted in widespread circulation, accompanied by reduced milk yield, mastitis, and high viral loads in milk. Notably, virus circulation in dairy cattle represents a novel route for mammalian adaptation and transmission that has already led to more than 40 human cases in the U.S. since 2024. Here, we investigated whether avian clade 2.3.4.4b viruses could infect mammary tissue from Aberdeen Angus, Holstein Friesian, and Limousin cattle, three breeds commonly farmed in Europe, the Americas, and Oceania. Using mammary gland explants, we inoculated tissues with attenuated reassortant viruses expressing the haemagglutinin and neuraminidase glycoproteins of three 2.3.4.4b viruses that predated the emergence of H5N1 in US cattle: A/chicken/England/053052/2021 (AIV07), A/chicken/Scotland/054477/2021 (AIV09), and A/chicken/England/085598/2022 (AIV48). Infected epithelial cells were identified using immunohistochemistry in explants from both the teat and gland cistern for all three breeds following infection with AIV09 and AIV48, indicating that mammary tissue from each of the three tested cattle breeds cattle is permissive to H5N1 infection. Lectin staining showed expression of both α2,3‑linked and α2,6‑linked sialic acids in the mammary tissue of all donors showing that all three breeds have the potential to support infection with both avian-adapted and mammalian adapted IAVs. Together, these findings demonstrate that mammary glands from both beef and dairy cattle breeds are permissive to infection with avian‑adapted and mammalian-adapted H5N1 viruses and highlight the potential for this tissue to act as a mixing vessel for IAV reassortment, underscoring the need to include cattle in ongoing H5N1 surveillance and risk‑assessment frameworks.

Competing Interest Statement

The authors have declared no competing interest.

Funder Information Declared

Medical Research Council, https://ror.org/03x94j517, MR/Y03368X/1, MR/Y03368X/1, MC_UU_0034/2, MC_UU_0034/3, MC_UU_0034/1

Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council, https://ror.org/00cwqg982, BB/V004697/1

Source: 

Link: https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.64898/2026.04.16.718897v1

____

Acquisition of specific #human respiratory tract binding of 2.3.4.4b #H5N1 #hemagglutinins requires multiple #mutations

 

Abstract

It has been suggested that the hemagglutinin of the human-infecting cattle-derived 2.3.4.4b virus A/Texas/34 (H5TX) requires only one mutation, namely Q226L, to switch from binding avian-type to human-type receptor preference. In this study, we examined the binding of H5TX Q226L, along with other key mutations, to sections of human trachea. We conclude that, while H5TX Q226L can bind human-type receptors, more than a single mutation is required for this protein to bind to human respiratory tract tissue. We also report changes in receptor-binding specificity of another 2.3.4.4b HA mutant, H5FR Q226L, associated with the presence of a multibasic cleavage site. This study offers insight into the determinants of evolution towards human-type receptor binding in currently circulating H5Nx viruses. It also emphasizes the importance of testing individual strains using additional methods, including tissue-based approaches, alongside synthetic glycans.

Competing Interest Statement

The authors have declared no competing interest.

Funder Information Declared

NWO, OCENW.M20.106

Horizon, 862605

Source: 

Link: https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.64898/2026.04.16.718875v1

____

Susceptibility of wild and domestic #songbirds to #Usutu virus

Abstract

Usutu virus (USUV) is an emerging mosquito-borne orthoflavivirus that can cause neuroinvasive disease in humans and wild birds. USUV clusters phylogenetically within the Japanese encephalitis virus serocomplex, sharing antigenic and ecological similarity with West Nile virus (WNV). USUV is maintained in an enzootic cycle primarily involving passerine birds and Culex spp. mosquitoes. USUV was first isolated in South Africa in 1959 and has since spread throughout Africa and Europe, causing mortality and disease in several wild bird populations, specifically the Eurasian blackbird (Turdus merula). To understand transmission and pathogenesis of USUV in birds, we sought to develop passerine bird models of infection using wild-caught house finches (Haemorhous mexicanus), wild-caught American robins (Turdus migratorius), domestic canaries (Serinus canaria domestica), and captive-bred zebra finches (Taeniopygia guttata). Birds were inoculated with one or two isolates of USUV and viremia was measured. House finches, American robins, and canaries were susceptible to USUV, with 100% of inoculated birds developing viremia. These avian species reach viremias that have the potential to infect Cx. quinquefasciatus mosquitoes. Clinical disease and histopathological evidence of disease were severe in American robins and moderate to severe in canaries, with limited disease in house finches. However, zebra finches inoculated with one isolate of USUV did not develop detectable viremia. These findings provide additional tools for studying USUV enzootic transmission and pathogenesis in passerine birds.

Source: 

Link: https://journals.plos.org/plosntds/article?id=10.1371/journal.pntd.0014213

____

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

{England, Lincoln Region} A commercial flock of 3,800 laying ducks. Samples taken were positive for HPAI H5N1. Birds presented clinical signs prior to testing.

Source: 

Link: https://wahis.woah.org/#/in-review/7440

____

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

 

A poultry farm in Zanzan Region.

Source: 

Link: https://wahis.woah.org/#/in-review/7446

____

Cross - #protection against highly pathogenic avian #influenza #H5N1 virus from seasonal influenza #vaccines: a systematic review and meta-analysis of #ferret studies

 

ABSTRACT

The recent surge in spillover events of highly pathogenic avian influenza A(H5N1) clade 2.3.4.4b to humans and mammals in North America has raised urgent pandemic concerns. Human H5N1 vaccines are unavailable in most countries. We synthesized data from ferret challenge trials to evaluate whether widely available seasonal influenza vaccines confer cross-protection against lethal H5N1 infection. We systematically searched PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science for ferret studies of lethal H5N1 challenge published up to 5 July 2025 (PROSPERO #CRD42024520346). Random-effects meta-analyses were conducted to compare vaccine efficacy (VE) of seasonal influenza vaccines and H5N1 vaccines against H5N1-related mortality. Seroprotection was defined as a neutralizing antibody titre of ≥1:40. We identified 35 studies (157 trials). Seasonal influenza vaccines without N1 did not confer significant cross-protection (five trials; VE 14.8%, 95% CI –3.6 to 30.0). In contrast, VE was 73% for N1-containing seasonal influenza vaccines (19 trials; 95% CI 54–84) and 77% for H5N1 vaccines overall (133 trials; 95% CI 72–82) (p = 0.52). The VE of N1-containing seasonal influenza vaccines was modestly lower than that of H5N1 vaccines with seroprotection (88%; 66 trials; 95% CI 84–91; p = 0.009), but comparable to H5N1 vaccines that did not achieve seroprotection (63%; 67 trials; 95% CI 52–71; p = 0.29). The VE of seasonal influenza vaccines against H5N1 was robust across sensitivity analyses, with no evidence of publication bias (p = 0.99). Seasonal influenza vaccines significantly reduce H5N1-associated mortality in ferret trials, suggesting the cross-protection potential of currently available vaccines. Human studies are warranted.

Source: 

Link: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/22221751.2026.2654278

____