Emerging and re-emerging vector-borne and other #zoonotic #RNA #viruses: #pathogenesis, #climate-driven dynamics, and strategies for global control

 

Abstract

Vector-borne and other zoonotic RNA viruses provide a significant and growing threat to global health, especially in areas where climate change, urbanization, and population growth facilitate the proliferation of arthropod vectors. This review offers an extensive examination of the biology, epidemiology, and pathogenesis of numerous important viruses, including dengue, Zika, chikungunya, yellow fever, Japanese encephalitis, Crimean–Congo hemorrhagic fever, Nipah, Ebola, and hantaviruses. We underscore how environmental and social factors, particularly increasing temperatures, modified precipitation patterns, and accelerated urbanization, transform vector habitats and spillover dynamics. The article further analyzes host–virus and virus–vector interactions, highlighting mechanisms of immune evasion, neurotropism, and vascular disease. Computational and machine learning models are examined as novel instruments for forecasting outbreaks and developing early warning systems. Finally, a summary of present and prospective control options is provided, covering integrated vector management, Wolbachia-based biological control, vaccinations, and antiviral immunotherapies.

Source: 

Link: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/microbiology/articles/10.3389/fmicb.2026.1755594/full

____

#WHO DG's opening #remarks at 44th meeting of PBAC of the Executive Board – 13 May 2026 (#Hantavirus section only, edited)

 

{Excerpt}

Excellencies, Honourable Ministers,

Our Chair, Dr Aspect Maunganidze,

Members of the PBAC, Member States, dear colleagues and friends,

Good morning and welcome once again.

Thank you all for your continuing commitment to the work of WHO through this committee.

Just yesterday I returned from Spain, where I was working with Minister Monica Garcia Gomez and other ministers on the disembarkation and repatriation of passengers and crew aboard the MV Hondius.

As Spain is a PBAC member, and as we are honoured to be joined by Ambassador Martinez, I would like to place on record my thanks to Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, Minister Gomez, and the government of Spain for their outstanding leadership and partnership over the past week. Muchas gracias.

By the way, I learned a word, “vamos vamos” because they needed to complete on time, and they did, and that was the most frequent word they were using: “vamos vamos”.

Not only did Spain fulfil its legal duty under the International Health Regulations, but it also met its moral duty to show kindness and compassion to the passengers and crew on the ship.

If there’s one thing our divided world needs right now, it’s kindness and compassion.

I would also like to thank the people of Tenerife for their support and solidarity throughout this period, and the European Union for its support.

But of course, many other countries have been involved.

I also thank South Africa, which was the first to confirm hantavirus at the National Institute for Communicable Diseases, after the first patient was evacuated there.

I thank the United Kingdom for notifying WHO and all countries through the IHR.

I thank Cabo Verde for helping with the evacuation of the three symptomatic patients. 

I thank the Netherlands, which has been actively involved through every stage of the outbreak, and has received the evacuees from the ship.

And as Poland is also a PBAC member, I would also like to acknowledge the leadership of the Polish captain of the ship, Captain Jan Dobrogowski.

I have been in regular contact with Captain Jan over the past week, and I would like to thank him and his crew for everything they have done to keep the passengers safe in a very difficult situation.

The ship is now sailing for the Netherlands with the crew, and one of the first messages I received this morning was from Captain Dobrogowski. It said, “Good morning dear Tedros. I am happy to report that so far we don’t have any symptoms onboard.” He has been doing that every morning, by the way.

The passengers have now all been repatriated and will be monitored until the quarantine period ends, on the 21st of June.

But that doesn’t mean the danger is over. In fact, it has entered a new phase as the passengers and crew return home.

    WHO’s advice is that they should be monitored actively at a specified quarantine facility or at home for 42 days from the last exposure, which is the 10th of May, meaning the quarantine period will end on the 21st of June.

    Anyone who becomes symptomatic should be isolated and treated immediately.

    WHO will continue to work closely with experts in all affected countries.

    We ask all countries to report regularly to WHO on the health and well-being of passengers and crew through the International Health Regulations.

I would also like to acknowledge the incredible efforts of all of my WHO colleagues, including Freddy Banza, who boarded the ship in Cabo Verde and stayed there until the disembarkation was complete in Tenerife, monitoring the health of the passengers and crew, and ensuring they were kept safe.

(...)

Source: 

Link: https://www.who.int/news-room/speeches/item/who-director-general-s-opening-remarks-at-the-44th-meeting-of-the-programme--budget-and-administration-committee-of-the-executive-board---13-may-2026

____

Weekly Communicable #Disease #Threats #Report, Wk 20, 9–15 May 2026 (ECDC, #Hantavirus section only)

 {Excerpt}

4. Hantavirus disease outbreak on cruise ship - South Atlantic - 2026 

Overview: Update (data cut-off 10.00 a.m.) 

Updates on new reported cases 

-- As of 13 May, and since the previous update on 12 May 2026, no new cases or deaths have been reported. 

-- A repatriated asymptomatic passenger from the United States had inconclusive test results and has been reclassified as such pending additional laboratory tests. 

-- A second US citizen was reported who developed mild symptoms during evacuation and tested negative for the Andes virus. 

Other news 

-- The cruise ship MV Hondius arrived at the port of Granadilla, Tenerife on Sunday 10 May. 

-- Disembarkation of passengers and part of the crew was carried out and completed on 11 May. 

-- The passengers and crew members were transported to the airport and repatriated via evacuation flights throughout 10 and 11 May. 

-- Evacuation was carried out from Tenerife to the following countries: 

    - Spain (14), 

    - France (5), 

    - Canada (4), 

    - the Netherlands (26), 

    - UK (22), 

    - Ireland (2), 

    - Turkey (3), and 

    - the US (17). 

-- Preliminary analysis of genome sequences from some of the positive cases confirmed a high level of genetic similarity between isolates, likely indicating an initial zoonotic spillover event followed by human-to-human transmission. 

-- Further results from genomic sequences are pending. 

Summary 

-- Since the start of the outbreak and as of 12 May 2026, 11 cases (eight confirmed, two probable and one inconclusive) have been reported. 

-- Of these, three have passed away. 

-- Infection prevention measures, including use of personal protective equipment, isolation of symptomatic individuals and social distancing, have been recommended. 

-- Further investigations are ongoing to identify a potential source of exposure. 

Background 

-- On 2 May 2026, the Netherlands informed ECDC about an outbreak of unknown aetiology on a cruise liner under the Dutch flag, the MV Hondius. 

-- The ship had been on a cruise in the Southern Atlantic after departing from Argentina on 1 April and was en route to Cabo Verde. 

-- The cruise followed an itinerary including stops on mainland Antarctica, South Georgia, Nightingale Island, Tristan da Cunha, St Helena, and Ascension Island with Cabo Verde as the next port of call.

-- A total of 149 persons embarked the ship at the beginning of the journey, including 88 passengers and 61 crew. 

-- Passengers and crew represent 23 nationalities, including several EU/EEA countries as well as other countries: Argentina, Australia, Belgium, Canada, France, Germany, Greece, Guatemala, India, Ireland, Japan, Montenegro, the Netherlands, New Zealand, the Philippines, Poland, Portugal, the Russian Federation, Spain, Türkiye, Ukraine, the United Kingdom, and the United States. 

(...)

ECDC assessment: 

-- Person-to-person transmission of ANDV has only been documented following close and prolonged contact. 

-- The current hypothesis is that some passengers were exposed to ANDV while spending time in Argentina (where ANDV is endemic) before embarking the ship, and may subsequently have transmitted the virus to other passengers onboard. 

-- Measures are already implemented onboard to reduce the likelihood of infection for passengers and crew on the cruise ship. 

-- The cruise ship company and the relevant port authorities have also been advised on how to prepare for the management of cases and contacts (e.g. isolation of cases, use of appropriate personal protective equipment, testing, etc). 

-- Even if transmission of ANDV were to happen from passengers evacuated from the ship, ANDV does not transmit easily so it is unlikely that it would cause many cases or a widespread outbreak in the community, if infection prevention and control measures are applied. 

-- In addition, the natural reservoir for ANDV is not present in Europe, so introduction to the rodent population and potential rodent-to-human transmission in Europe is not expected. 

-- The risk to the general population in the EU/EEA from ANDV spreading from this cruise ship outbreak is very low. 

Actions: 

-- ECDC is liaising with Member States, WHO, and the European Commission to collect more information and coordinate actions. 

-- ECDC is supporting response operations through the EUHTF remotely, on site and on the ship in coordination with the affected countries. 

-- ECDC published a Threat Assessment Brief on 6 May 2026, and is providing regular updates on its website.

(...)

Source: 

Link: https://www.ecdc.europa.eu/en/publications-data/communicable-disease-threats-report-9-13-may-2026-week-20

____

#Andes #hantavirus {multi-country} #outbreak, #Update: 13 May 2026 (ECDC, edited)

 

    ECDC was notified on 2 May 2026 of a cluster of severe respiratory illness on MV Hondius, a Dutch-flagged cruise ship with passengers and crew from 23 countries, including nine EU/EEA countries. 

As of 13 May, a total of eleven cases have been reported, including eight confirmed, two probable, and one inconclusive. 

No new cases or deaths have been reported since the previous update. 

The MV Hondius cruise ship arrived at the port of Granadilla, Tenerife, on Sunday 10 May. 

Disembarkation of passengers and part of the crew was completed on 11 May and repatriation of all passengers and crew members to their countries was completed. 

The ship departed from Tenerife on 11 May and is scheduled to arrive in the Netherlands on 17 or 18 May.

The virus has been identified as Andes hantavirus, the only hantavirus that can be transmitted person-to-person, typically requiring close, prolonged contact. 

Measures are already in place on board of the ship to reduce the likelihood of infection among passengers and crew.

The risk to the EU/EEA general population is very low.

___

-- Confirmed cases***: 8

-- Probable cases**: 2

-- Suspected cases*: 0

-- Inconclusive cases****: 1

-- Number of deaths: 3

____

{*} A suspected case is a person who:

    ° Has been on or visited the same transport (e.g. ship or plane) where a confirmed or probable Andes hantavirus (ANDV) case was present, 

    - OR - 

    ° Has been in contact with a passenger or crew member of the MV Hondius since 5 April,

    - AND - 

    ° Has a fever (currently or recently),

    ° Plus at least one of the following symptoms: 

        - muscle aches

        - chills

        - headache

        - stomach problems (such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, or abdominal pain)

        - breathing problems (such as cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, or difficulty breathing)

{**} A probable case is a person who:

    ° Has the symptoms listed above, and

    ° Is known to have been in contact with a confirmed or probable ANDV case

{***} A confirmed case is a person who:

    ° Meets the suspected or probable case definition, and

    ° Has a laboratory test that confirms ANDV infection (PCR or antibody test)

{****} An inconclusive case means awaiting further laboratory investigations.

Non-case

° A non-case is a person who was initially considered a suspected or probable case, but tests negative for ANDV using laboratory tests (PCR or antibody test).

Source: 

Link: https://www.ecdc.europa.eu/en/infectious-disease-topics/hantavirus-infection/surveillance-and-updates/andes-hantavirus-outbreak

____

Pre-existing systemic and #nasal #antibodies against avian #H5 #influenza A viruses vary according to #childhood imprinting

 

Abstract

Avian influenza A viruses (IAV) pose a constant pandemic threat, with the recent 2.3.4.4b clade of the H5 subtype causing high pathogenicity and spreading across animal species and geographic locations. Understanding human pre-existing immunity to avian H5 IAV can inform on population susceptibility, a critical aspect of pandemic preparedness. To that end, we analysed the IAV HA-specific antibodies across individuals born between 1928-1999 with different early life exposures to IAV subtypes. Individuals born prior to 1957 had the highest pre-existing serum antibodies to group 1 HA antigens, including the 2.3.4.4b H5 and a group 1 HA stem antigen. These birth-year-specific patterns were not reflected in the limited pre-existing serum neutralising antibodies detectable against a 2.3.4.4b H5 IAV or in H5-specific memory B cell populations. They were however evident in pre-existing nasal IgG and IgA titres to H5, which were greater in individuals born prior to 1957. Our findings demonstrate that the immunological biases afforded by early life exposure extend to antibodies detected in the nasal mucosa, the site of IAV replication.

Source: 

Link: https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.64898/2026.05.08.723737v1

____

G4 #Eurasian avian-like #H1N1 swine #influenza viruses exhibit enhanced #pathogenicity potential in mice and #pigs

 

Abstract

Currently circulating swine influenza viruses (SIVs) mainly include H1N1, H1N2, and H3N2 subtypes. In this study, two G4 genotype Eurasian avian-like (EA) H1N1 SIVs were isolated from 556 samples collected between 2023 and 2026. A systematic analysis was conducted on the two EA H1N1 isolates (FYD30 and YZF69) to assess their pandemic potential. The hemagglutinin (HA) proteins of both H1N1 viruses possessed residues 225E and 228S, indicating enhanced affinity for human-like alpha-2,6-linked sialic acid receptors, which was confirmed by receptor-binding assays. Polymerase activity tests demonstrated that the two SIVs exhibited significantly higher activity in mammalian cells, relative to avian cells, which is consistent with the efficient replication in mammalian cells. Challenge experiments revealed that both H1N1 caused significant pathogenicity in mice and pigs, with YZF69 exhibited higher virulence than FYD30. The higher virulence of YZF69 may be attributed to its molecular features, including the NP Q357K mutation, and an additional glycosylation site in HA. In conclusion, currently circulating EA H1N1 SIVs have acquired key molecular signatures of mammalian adaptation, exhibit enhanced virulence in mammals, and continue to undergo extensive reassortment driven by international swine trade. These findings highlight the potential pandemic risk of SIVs and underscore the urgent need for strengthened surveillance.

Source: 

Link: https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.64898/2026.05.12.724537v1

____

The #Coinfection of #Bartonella spp. and #Hantavirus in Wild #Rodent and #Shrew Species in Eastern #China

 

Abstract

Background:

Bartonella spp. are Gram-negative bacteria that cause diseases including endocarditis, lymphadenopathy, and neuroretinitis. Hantavirus (HV), belonging to the family Hantaviridae, induces illnesses such as hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome and hantavirus pulmonary syndrome. Both pathogens exhibit host specificity—defined as a preference or restriction to specific host species or ranges. Rodents and shrews are primary hosts for these pathogens, and their high coinfection rates often indicate elevated risk of human exposure. To our knowledge, however, data on Bartonella spp.–HV coinfection in rodents and shrews from Eastern China remain limited.

Materials and Methods:

Between 2020 and 2023, rodents (n = 311) and shrews (n = 16) were investigated for coinfection with Bartonella spp. and HV in Qingdao, eastern China. Nested Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) was used for the detection of RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) gene of HV and the Internal Transcribed Spacer, citrate synthase (gltA) and RNA polymerase beta subunit (rpoB) genes of Bartonella spp.

Results:

The overall infection rates of Bartonella spp., HV, and coinfection were 21.4%, 6.7%, and 4.0%, respectively. The highest rates were observed in Apodemus agrarius (53.8%, 21.3%, and 15.0%). Coinfection rates differed significantly by species (p < 0.05), with A. agrarius exhibiting the highest rate (15.0%). Notably, the coinfection rate was significantly higher in male (28.9%) than female A. agrarius (7.1%) (p < 0.05).

Conclusions:

This study confirms the coinfection of Bartonella spp. and HV in rodents in the eastern region of China. Enhanced monitoring of rodent and shrew densities, as well as their carried pathogens, is essential. Additionally, timely screening, diagnosis, and treatment should be conducted for high-risk populations in the region to reduce the incidence of related zoonoses.

Source: 

Link: https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/15303667261448824

____

#Spain, The Public Health #Commission sets May 10 as "day zero" for the official start of the #quarantine (Min. Health, May 12 '26)

 

The Public Health Commission approved this afternoon the updated protocol for handling people in relation to the hantavirus outbreak.

Only those evacuated from the cruise ship will be quarantined at the Gómez Ulla Hospital. 

For any other contacts, health authorities will conduct an individual assessment.

The protocol will be re-evaluated, at the latest, after 28 days, to adapt the measures to the epidemiological evolution and the available scientific knowledge.

- - - 

Madrid, May 12, 2026 – The Public Health Commission approved this afternoon the updated protocol for managing individuals under observation in Spain in relation to the Andes hantavirus outbreak associated with the MV-HONDIUS cruise ship. 

The document, previously agreed upon by the Technical Committee of the Early Warning and Rapid Response System (SIAPR), establishes May 10, 2026, as “day zero” for the official start of quarantine, coinciding with the date on which the isolation of those evacuated from the ship in individual rooms began.

The protocol updates the definition of contact to enhance surveillance. 

A contact is defined as any person who was on the ship between April 1 and May 10, or who had contact with a confirmed case during their infectious period, which officially begins two days before the onset of the first symptoms or a positive PCR test in asymptomatic cases. 

Under this criterion, this includes those who share a room or bathroom, sexual partners, direct physical contacts, and airline passengers seated in the same row or two adjacent rows on long-haul flights as a laboratory-confirmed case.

The protocol introduces a differentiated approach to contact tracing, stipulating that only those evacuated from the cruise ship must undergo mandatory quarantine in individual rooms at the Gómez Ulla Central Defense Hospital in Madrid. 

For any other contacts identified outside this group, health authorities will conduct an individualized assessment of their situation, allowing quarantine to take place in other facilities designated for isolation and health monitoring.

All identified contacts, regardless of where they quarantine, will be subject to enhanced health surveillance for the first 28 days, the period considered most likely for the appearance of symptoms consistent with the disease. 

During this time, a PCR test will be performed every seven days, and the results will only be considered conclusive after official confirmation from the National Microbiology Center. 

This measure will be complemented by supervised active surveillance, including twice-daily temperature checks and monitoring for possible symptoms such as fever, shortness of breath, or muscle aches.

To promote the well-being of those in quarantine, the protocol allows for more flexible isolation conditions after the first week. 

If the PCR test performed on day 7 is negative, those isolated in the hospital setting may receive visitors using appropriate personal protective equipment and may take supervised walks out of their rooms into the common areas of the ward, while maintaining the mandatory use of FFP2 masks at all times.

Should any of the individuals being monitored develop symptoms consistent with the disease—such as fever, cough, shortness of breath, muscle aches, vomiting, or diarrhea—they will be considered a probable case and transferred to a negative-pressure isolation room for specific diagnostic testing. 

In such cases, the network of High-Level Isolation and Treatment Units (UATAN) will also be notified to ensure an immediate response in the event of a confirmed diagnosis.

Regarding the management of confirmed cases following a positive laboratory test, the protocol stipulates their admission to a High-Level Isolation and Treatment Unit (UATAN). 

The length of stay in this specialized unit will depend on the patient's condition: those with symptoms will remain hospitalized until their full clinical recovery, while asymptomatic cases must remain in isolation until they obtain a negative test result.

The protocol will be re-evaluated, at the latest, after 28 days, to adapt the measures to the epidemiological evolution and the available scientific knowledge.

Source: 

Link: https://www.sanidad.gob.es/gabinete/notasPrensa.do?id=6907

____

#Andes #hantavirus #outbreak in cruise ship, 12 May 2026 (ECDC, edited): 11 cases so far (9 confirmed, 2 probable)

 

ECDC was notified on 2 May 2026 of a cluster of severe respiratory illness on MV Hondius, a Dutch-flagged cruise ship with passengers and crew from 23 countries, including nine EU/EEA countries. 

As of 12 May, 11 cases have been reported in total, including nine confirmed and two probable.

After arrival of the cruise ship at Tenerife, Canary Islands on 10 May, disembarkation and repatriation of passengers was carried out and completed on 11 May.

The virus has been identified as Andes hantavirus, the only hantavirus that can be transmitted person-to-person, typically requiring close, prolonged contact. Measures are already in place on board of the ship to reduce the likelihood of infection among passengers and crew.

The risk to the EU/EEA general population is very low.

___

-- Confirmed cases***: 9

-- Probable cases**: 2

-- Suspected cases*: 0

-- Number of deaths: 3

____

{*} A suspected case is a person who:

- Has been on or visited the same transport (e.g. ship or plane) where a confirmed or probable Andes hantavirus (ANDV) case was present, OR

- Has been in contact with a passenger or crew member of the MV Hondius since 5 April,

* AND * 

- Has a fever (currently or recently),

- Plus at least one of the following symptoms: 

    ° muscle aches

    ° chills

    ° headache

    ° stomach problems (such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, or abdominal pain)

    ° breathing problems (such as cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, or difficulty breathing)

{**} A probable case is a person who:

- Has the symptoms listed above, and

- Is known to have been in contact with a confirmed or probable ANDV case

{***} A confirmed case is a person who:

- Meets the suspected or probable case definition, and

- Has a laboratory test that confirms ANDV infection (PCR or antibody test)

Non-case

- A non-case is a person who was initially considered a suspected or probable case, but tests negative for ANDV using laboratory tests (PCR or antibody test).

Source: 

Link: https://www.ecdc.europa.eu/en/infectious-disease-topics/hantavirus-infection/surveillance-and-updates/andes-hantavirus-outbreak

____

#Genomic Analysis of #SinNombre Virus #Sequences, Northwestern #USA, 2023

 

Abstract

We report Sin Nombre virus (SNV) genome sequences in the northwestern United States, including SNV sequences recovered from montane voles. Analysis of samples collected from 189 individual rodents revealed high SNV prevalence in the region and evidence of virus reassortment or coinfection, highlighting ongoing virus diversification in rodents.

Source: 

Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42116630/

____

#WHO DG's opening #remarks at the #media #briefing on #hantavirus – 12 May 2026 (Edited): 11 cases among passengers and crew members so far.

 

Your Excellency Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, 

Dear members of the media, 

Buenos dias a todos. By the way, I like “vamos vamos” – when the three ministers were leading this operation, Spain led in style. 

Let me begin by thanking Prime Minister Sánchez and his government for Spain’s outstanding leadership and partnership over the past week. 

I would especially like to thank Minister Mónica García, my sister, and now I’m introduced to two more ministers with whom we have been working closely, Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska and Minister Ángel Víctor Torres. 

It seems incredible that it was only 10 days ago that WHO was first informed of a cluster of cases of hantavirus aboard the MV Hondius. 

Under the International Health Regulations, to which Spain is a party, as His Excellency said, countries are required not to allow people to be stranded at sea when they have the capacity to manage the risk safely and responsibly. 

At the time, the ship was near Cabo Verde, and I asked Prime Minister Ulisses Correia e Silva to assist with the evacuation of the three symptomatic passengers on the ship, which he did.

However, WHO’s assessment was that the situation exceeded Cabo Verde’s capacity to handle the full disembarkation and repatriation.

So, last Monday, I wrote to Prime Minister Sánchez asking if Spain would accept the ship and manage the disembarkation of the passengers, with support from the World Health Organization. 

By the way, the European Union’s assessment was the same, and the Prime Minister received the same request from the European Union. 

He responded immediately in the affirmative, and for the past week, Spain and WHO have worked together closely under Spain’s leadership, along with the government of the Netherlands and the ship’s operator, to coordinate and execute the operation that took place over the past two days. 

I thank Prime Minister Sánchez not only for meeting Spain’s legal duty under international law, but also for exercising his moral duty to show solidarity with, and compassion and kindness for the passengers on the ship. 

Especially during these difficult times, the world needs this kind of kindness and compassion. That’s what exactly Spain did, and we’re so proud to witness that, and I know the whole world is proud to witness that. 

I repeat, the world, if there is one thing it needs at this time, it’s kindness and compassion, and support for each other – apart from of course the legal obligations. 

We can say confidently that this phase of the operation was successful. As you have heard from Prime Minister Sánchez, all of the passengers have disembarked and left Tenerife, and MV Hondius – the ship – is now on its way to the Netherlands. 

Almost 150 people from 23 countries were on this ship for weeks, in what must have been a very frightening situation. Some of the passengers were facing mental breakdown. 

They have the right to be treated with dignity and compassion. 

There were some people around the world calling for the passengers to be contained on the ship for the full quarantine period. Our view was that would have been inhumane, and unnecessary. Yesterday during our press conference I called it even cruel to suggest that. 

We were convinced it was possible to disembark these passengers in a way that was safe for them and the people of Tenerife, and that was respectful of the human rights of the passengers and crew. 

Over the past week I have also been in regular contact with the ship’s captain Jan Dobrogowski, and I would like to thank him, the crew, the company that operates the ship, the CEO Mr Remy and all of the passengers for everything they have done. 

I fully understand why the people of Tenerife may have been concerned about passengers from the cruise ship disembarking on their shores. 

We said the risk was low, both to the people of Tenerife and globally, and all our efforts over the past week have been aimed at keeping it low. 

This is a serious situation, which we have taken – and continue to take – very seriously. 

A WHO expert boarded the ship in Cabo Verde, and was joined by two doctors from the Netherlands and an expert from the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control. 

    WHO’s assessment continues to be that the risk to health globally is low. 

So far, eleven cases have been reported, including three deaths. All eleven cases are among passengers or crew on the ship. 

Nine of the eleven have been confirmed as Andes virus, and the other two are probable. 

Those numbers have changed little over the past week, thanks to the efforts of multiple governments and partners. There have been no deaths since the 2nd of May, when WHO was first informed of the cluster of cases. 

All suspected and confirmed cases have been isolated and managed under strict medical supervision, minimizing any risk of further transmission. 

    At the moment, there is no sign that we are seeing the start of a larger outbreak. 

But of course, the situation could change. 

And given the long incubation period of the virus, it’s possible we might see more cases in the coming weeks. 

Each of the countries to which the passengers have been repatriated is responsible for monitoring the health of those passengers. 

WHO is aware of reports of a small number of patients with symptoms consistent with Andes virus, and we are following up on each of those reports with the respective countries. 

WHO’s recommendation is that they should be monitored actively at a specified quarantine facility or at home for 42 days from the last exposure, which is the 10th of May, which takes us to the 21st of June. 

Anyone who becomes symptomatic should be isolated and treated immediately. 

Our work is not over. WHO will continue to work closely with experts in all affected countries. 

We have also requested countries to report regularly to WHO on the health and well-being of passengers and crew through the International Health Regulations. 

Once again, WHO expresses its deep appreciation to Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez and the Government of Spain for its outstanding leadership and partnership over the past week. 

As I have said many times: viruses do not respect borders. Our strongest immunity is solidarity – and that is the solidarity that Spain has demonstrated. 

It gives me great comfort that there are still people in our world who do things not because they are politically expedient, but simply because they are right – for the people of Spain and the people of the world. 

Muchas gracias.

Source: 

Link: https://www.who.int/news-room/speeches/item/who-director-general-s-opening-remarks-at-the-media-briefing-on-hantavirus---12-may-2026

____

Wider #hantavirus #outbreak risk is ‘absolutely low’, insists #UN health agency (UN News Centre, May 12 '26)

 

By Daniel Johnson in Geneva | 8 May 2026 | Health

The risk of hantavirus spreading to the general population is “absolutely low”, the UN World Health Organization (WHO) stressed on Friday, as a flight attendant tested negative for the disease after coming into contact with an infected passenger from the cruise ship at the centre of the outbreak, who later died. 

“This is not COVID,” a WHO spokesperson told journalists at a briefing in Geneva, as the agency continues to coordinate the response to the deadly outbreak on a cruise liner moored in Cabo Verde. 

To date, three people have died and several others fell ill aboard the Dutch-flagged ship the Hondius, prompting a major international public health response involving countries across Europe, Africa and Latin America.

“Let’s not forget from couples who were close…from a flight attendant who handled the sick woman who just shortly after died and was feeling extremely unwell, we get negative test results. That should convince nearly everybody now that this is a dangerous virus, but only to the person who is really infected. And it's the risk to the general population remains absolutely low,” said WHO spokesperson Christian Lindmeier.

Eight cases of infection have been reported so far, including five laboratory-confirmed infections and three suspected cases linked to the rare Andes strain of hantavirus, according to WHO.

No comparison with COVID

“I need to stress again and again, even those who have been sharing cabins don't seem to be both infected in some cases…it’s not spreading anything close to how COVID was spreading,” Mr. Lindmeier said.

Beyond the Hantius cruise liner where the outbreak was first reported, contact tracing has continued of potentially infected individuals.

“It’s following up on everybody. It’s looking into seating lists of planes, of ships, maybe even more tracing somebody's steps, seeing where they would have been or might have been in close contact,” Mr. Lindmeier said.

According to WHO, transmission generally requires close and prolonged contact, particularly among household members, intimate partners or healthcare workers. 

Even so, the wife whose infected husband is being treated in a Swiss hospital “has not presented any symptoms and is self-isolating…So that shows you, again, luckily, apparently the virus is not that contagious,” Mr. Lindmeier said.

The first known patient developed symptoms on 6 April and later died aboard the vessel. His wife also became ill and died after being evacuated to South Africa, where laboratory testing confirmed hantavirus infection.

Rodent risk

Prior to boarding, the couple had travelled through Argentina, Chile and Uruguay on a birdwatching trip, including visits to sites where the rodent species known to carry the virus is present.

Another passenger died on 2 May and while one man remains in intensive care in South Africa, WHO said his condition is improving. Other patients have been transferred to hospitals in the Netherlands for treatment.

WHO said no passengers or crew currently remaining aboard the ship are showing symptoms.

Hantaviruses are zoonotic viruses carried by rodents and are usually transmitted to humans through contact with infected animals or their urine, saliva or droppings (...).

The Andes strain, found in parts of Latin America, is the only known hantavirus capable of limited human-to-human transmission.

The outbreak has triggered action under the International Health Regulations, the global framework designed to coordinate responses to cross-border health threats.

WHO said it is working closely with authorities in Cabo Verde, Spain, the Netherlands, South Africa, the United Kingdom and Argentina, alongside the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control.

Source: 

Link: https://news.un.org/en/story/2026/05/1167465

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Avian #Influenza #Report - May 3 – 9 '26 (Wk 19) (#HK PRC SAR CHP, May 12 '26): 1 new #human #fatal case of #H5N6 virus in #Chongqing, #China

 

{Excerpt}

(...)

Avian influenza A(H5N6): 

-- Chongqing Municipality: 

- The case involved a 55-year-old woman with symptom onset on April 16, 2026. 

- She was hospitalised on April 23 with severe pneumonia but died on May 3.   

- She had purchased lived poultry, slaughtered and consumed them. 

- Environmental samples taken from a chopping board from her home tested positive for avian influenza A(H5). 

- All close contacts tested negative and developed no symptoms.  

(...)

Source: 

Link: https://www.chp.gov.hk/files/pdf/2026_avian_influenza_report_vol22_wk19.pdf

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Sequencing of #Betacoronavirus erinacei from faeces of pet #hedgehogs demonstrates a continuity of #MERS-CoV like viruses in #European and Eurasian hedgehog species

 

Abstract

Hedgehogs have been recently identified as carriers of Betacoronavirus erinacei (also known as Erinaceus coronavirus, EriCoV) a virus closely related to B. cameli responsible for human Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS), raising questions about the risk of hedgehog-to-human transmission and suggesting the need for coronavirus (CoV) surveillance in hedgehogs. This study investigated the presence of CoVs in fecal samples of hedgehogs kept as pets in Italy in 2021–2022. A pan-CoV nested RT-PCR targeting the RdRp gene was used for screening and positive samples were sequenced and phylogenetically analyzed. Two (6.2%) out of 30 hedgehogs analyzed were positive for B. erinacei represented by 2/3 (66.7%) long eared hedgehog (Hemiechinus auritus) while all the 27 tested African pygmy hedgehog (Atelerix albiventris) were negative. Whole genome sequence obtained from one B. erinacei-positive sample showed closest homology (85.7%) with B. erinacei previously detected in Erinaceus sp. from Eastern Russia. Phylogeny showed that the virus of this study formed a separate clade in the cluster with other B. erinacei identified in Europe and European Russia and did not cluster with other B. erinacei identified in China in Amur hedgehog (E. amurensis). No recombination events were observed. Analysis of the Spike protein revealed the presence of six out of the 11 key receptor binding residues, including two out of the three critical residues recently identified for the binding of Erinaceus europaeus receptor APN and B. erinacei. Results of this study suggest the presence of a long-eared hedgehog-specific strain of B. erinacei. Overall results support the circulation of coronaviruses along a phylogenetic continuum among different species of hedgehogs and geographic locations, suggesting the need for further CoV surveillance in both domestic and wild animals. There is also a need for studies on the affinity of EriCoV with the H. auritus APN specific receptor to confirm its involvement in the viral entry process.

Source: 

Link: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2352771426000960?via%3Dihub

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Cross-reactive #human #antibody responses to #H5N1 #influenza virus #neuraminidase are shaped by immune history

 

Abstract

H5N1 highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses have spread globally and pose a pandemic risk. Prior studies suggest that early life exposures to group 1 influenza viruses (H1N1 and H2N2) prime antibodies that cross-react to the hemagglutinin of H5N1, which is also a group 1 virus. However, less is known about how immune history affects antibody responses against the H5N1 neuraminidase (NA). We measured NA inhibition antibodies against multiple H5N1 viruses using sera from 155 individuals born between 1927 and 2016. Individuals likely primed in childhood with H1N1 viruses possessed higher levels of antibodies that cross-react with the NA of H5N1 viruses compared to those primed with H2N2 or H3N2 viruses. While young children rarely possessed cross-reactive N1 antibodies, childhood infections with contemporary H1N1, but not H3N2, viruses elicited them. We also measured antibodies against an H5N5 virus (A6 genotype) that recently caused a fatal infection in the United States. Consistent with the lack of circulation of N5 viruses in humans, we found low levels of antibodies against the N5 NA. Our data suggest that immune history greatly impacts the generation of cross-reactive NA antibodies, and that reassortment with other NAs may increase the risk of H5 infection of humans.

Source: 

Link: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-026-72941-4

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The Decline in #Influenza #Antibody Titers and Modifiers of #Vaccine #Immunity from over Ten Years of Serological Data

 

Abstract

Annual influenza vaccination is the cornerstone for seasonal protection, yet antibody responses are highly variable across individuals and over time. To systematically assess the determinants of this heterogeneity, we compiled 20,449 hemagglutination inhibition and neutralization titers from 4,540 participants enrolled in 14 new vaccine studies we conducted and 50 prior studies that collectively span 2010-2023. Seasonal effects dominated, with pre- and post-vaccination titers declining steadily from 2017 onwards, outweighing the influence of age, sex, or repeated vaccination. Titers to B Yamagata remained steady throughout all years examined, suggesting unique durability and offering a reason for lineage extinction. Vaccine timing emerged as a strong and previously underappreciated determinant of immunity, with individuals vaccinated later in the season exhibiting larger post-vaccination titers. Not being vaccinated or receiving the live-attenuated FluMist vaccine in one year significantly enhanced the response to inactivated vaccines in 45% or 68% of cohorts, respectively, whereas antigen dose and adjuvants had modest impact. These findings identify vaccine timing and seasonal context as underrecognized drivers of immunogenicity and provide actionable insights for optimizing influenza vaccination strategies.

Competing Interest Statement

The authors have declared no competing interest.

Funding Statement

This research was supported by the the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) under the Computational Models of Influenza Immunity (U01 AI187062), LJI & Kyowa Kirin, Inc. (KKNA - Kyowa Kirin North America), and the Bodman family (TE).

Source: 

Link: https://www.medrxiv.org/content/10.64898/2026.01.07.25342310v2

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#USA, California DPH Confirms Four Californians Being Monitored for #Andes #Hantavirus Exposure Related to Cruise Ship ​​(May 12 '26)

 

May 11, 2026 | NR26-019

Three exposed on cruise ship, one     other exposed on international flight. Risk to the public is extremely low. 

-- What You Need to Know: 

CDPH continues to closely coordinate with federal and local public health officials following notification that three California residents were aboard the MV Hondius, a Dutch cruise ship that experienced an outbreak of Andes hantavirus. 

An additional California resident was identified who was on an international flight sitting near an ill returning cruise passenger who later was confirmed to have Andes hantavirus.  

SACRAMENTO – The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) continues to coordinate with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and local health officials to monitor four Californians exposed to the outbreak of Andes hantavirus that occurred aboard the cruise ship MV Hondius.  

Two of these individuals have returned to their respective homes and are being monitored by their local public health officials. 

Two additional California residents have been transported to the United States by federal authorities. 

They will return to California once health assessments have been done and arrangements have been made to protect their and the public’s health. 

The risk to the public remains extremely low. 

On May 8, CDPH announced that one individual from California had returned to the state and is being monitored by local public health officials. 

This weekend, CDC notified CDPH of an additional contact now under active monitoring in California due to potential exposure with a confirmed case on a shared flight. 

Two other California residents who were on the MV Hondius have been evacuated to a secure medical facility in Nebraska. 

"We understand public concern about this unusual outbreak," said Dr. Erica Pan, State Public Health Officer and CDPH Director. 

"Decades of experience in South America have shown that this Andes hantavirus rarely spreads between people. We continue to work with federal and local officials to monitor the health of potentially exposed individuals and prepare for our Californians to come home.” 

The Californians currently in Nebraska will be transported home after further health assessment and appropriate arrangements have been made to protect their and public health. 

After their return, local health officials will monitor the returned passengers as necessary. 

Currently, public health monitoring protocol includes daily temperature checks, assessment for any symptoms consistent with hantavirus, and direction to modify activities. 

Prior to response efforts related to this outbreak, the CDPH Viral and Rickettsial Disease Laboratory (VRDL) was the only public health laboratory in the U.S. with a validated diagnostic hantavirus PCR assay to conduct testing for hantavirus. 

If any exposed individual develops symptoms consistent with infection, California has the capability to test in the state.  

CDPH VRDL is also providing technical assistance to other laboratories across the country to support testing capacity. 

CDPH is coordinating closely with hospitals who can care for potential hantavirus cases and has issued clinical health advisories to clinicians to provide guidance for appropriate care.  

The risk to the public remains extremely low. 

About Hantavirus & Transmission Ris​​k

Hantavirus is a group of viruses that spread through the urine, droppings (feces), and saliva of wild rodents. 

Hantaviruses include both the Sin Nombre and Andes virus strains. 

The Andes hantavirus identified in this cruise ship outbreak is found in the southern Andes region of Argentina and Chile. 

Andes hantavirus has also been associated with rare human‑to‑human transmission after close, prolonged contact with an ill infected person. 

Andes hantavirus is different than the Sin Nombre hantavirus, which is native to California and North America. Sin Nombre hantavirus has not been associated with person-to-person transmission. 

From 1980 to 2025, 99 California residents have been diagnosed with Sin Nombre hantavirus infection. 

Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS) is a rare but severe respiratory illness that can develop following exposure. 

Early symptoms resemble influenza, can include gastrointestinal symptoms, and can progress rapidly to life‑threatening respiratory distress. 

The fatality rate is approximately 30 - 40 percent. 

There is no antiviral treatment for hantavirus and HPS typically needs aggressive critical medical supportive care. 

Further Reading and Upd​ates

More information on hantavirus is available on CDPH’s hantavirus website and from the CDC’s hantavirus web page. An update on the federal government evacuation and repatriation efforts was issued in a CDC health alert on Friday, May 8. 

This is a dynamic and evolving investigation and response. CDPH will continue to update the public as new information becomes available. ​

Source: 

Link: https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/OPA/Pages/NR26-019.aspx

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#UK Health Security Agency #update on the #hantavirus cruise ship #outbreak (May 12 '26)

 

Latest update

Clinical assessments and testing are now well underway at Arrowe Park on the Wirral, for passengers repatriated from the MV Hondius. 

They include 20 British nationals, alongside one UK resident German national and one Japanese passenger. 

Two British nationals have returned home on repatriation flights to the USA, which were organised by the USA. 

Another British national is due to return to Australia. 

A further 3 British nationals are being treated by medical teams outside the UK – one in the Netherlands, one on Tristan da Cunha and a third in South Africa.

Passengers will remain at Arrowe Park while they have clinical and public health assessments and testing. 

They will be fully supported and will have an assessment by and regular contact with NHS clinicians on site to check on their wellbeing. 

Strict infection control measures remain in place at the facility.

Professor Robin May, Chief Scientific Officer at UKHSA, said:  

''Clinical assessments and testing are now underway at Arrowe Park, and the staff there have once again shown outstanding dedication and professionalism in providing the highest standard of care. We are enormously grateful for everything they are doing.

''Passengers will continue to receive the full support of our teams and NHS specialists throughout their stay and beyond. We want to reassure both passengers and the wider public that robust arrangements are in place, and that everyone involved will be looked after every step of the way.

Passengers will be asked to isolate for up to 45 days, with regular testing and ongoing care provided by UKHSA and NHS teams. 

Daily contact with UKHSA health protection teams will continue throughout the isolation period to ensure passengers are supported to isolate safely.

Next steps for individuals leaving Arrowe Park Hospital safely whilst isolating from others will be determined on the basis of their individual circumstances, and all passengers will be fully supported throughout this process. 

Public health specialists from UKHSA and infectious diseases specialists from the NHS will assess whether passengers are able to safely isolate at home or whether an alternative suitable location will be arranged.

UKHSA continues to work closely with public health teams in devolved administrations and UK Overseas Territories to identify and support the management of individuals who may have had high-risk contact with cases. The risk to the general public remains very low.

Source: 

Link: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/ukhsa-update-on-the-hantavirus-cruise-ship-outbreak

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