Avian #Influenza #Report: August 23 - 29 '26 (Wk 35) (CHP, HK SAR September 1, 2026): 1 New #Human Infection with #H9N2 virus in Anhui, 20 cases so far this year

 

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Avian influenza A(H9N2):

    ° Anhui Province {China}:

        § A three-year-old boy with onset on August 3, 2026.

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Source: Centre for Health Protection, Hong Kong PRC SAR, https://www.chp.gov.hk/en/index.html

Link: https://www.chp.gov.hk/files/pdf/2026_avian_influenza_report_vol22_wk35.pdf

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#Report on #influenza viruses received and tested by the #Melbourne #WHO Collaborating Centre for Reference and Research on Influenza during 2025

 

Abstract

As part of its role in the World Health Organization (WHO) Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System (GISRS), the WHO Collaborating Centre for Reference and Research on Influenza in Melbourne (the Centre) received 13,817 human influenza-positive samples during 2025. Viruses were analysed for their antigenic, genetic, and antiviral susceptibility properties. Selected viruses were propagated in qualified cells or embryonated hens’ eggs for potential use in seasonal influenza virus vaccines. Of the 13,817 samples received or processed, influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 viruses predominated, accounting for 46.1% of samples, compared to 21.2% for A(H3N2) viruses and 19.5% for influenza B viruses; one influenza C virus was received. Among viruses analysed at the Centre, the majority of A(H1N1)pdm09 (> 99%) and influenza B (98%) viruses were antigenically similar to their respective WHO recommended vaccine strains for the Southern Hemisphere in 2025. In contrast, only 43% of A(H3N2) viruses were antigenically similar to their respective WHO recommended vaccine strains. Of 3,307 samples tested for susceptibility to the neuraminidase inhibitors oseltamivir and zanamivir, 37 A(H1N1)pdm09 viruses showed highly reduced inhibition by oseltamivir and no influenza viruses tested showed highly reduced inhibition by zanamivir. Of 5,080 samples with sequencing of the polymerase acidic (PA) gene, no genetic markers associated with highly reduced susceptibility to baloxavir marboxil were identified.

Source: 

Link: https://ojs.cdi.cdc.gov.au/index.php/cdi/article/view/3489

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#Taiwan, Seasonal #Influenza and #COVID19 Epidemics Situation #Update (CDC, September 1 '26): #H1N1pdm09 flu virus and PQ.16.1.1 SARS-CoV variant are predominant

 

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    The CDC pointed out that in the 34th week (August 23-29), there were 101,628 outpatient and emergency room visits for influenza-like illnesses, an increase of 5.6% compared to the previous week, showing a recent slow upward trend. 

    In addition, last week (August 25-31), there were 85 new cases of severe influenza complications (80 H1N1, 3 H3N2, and 2 untyped A cases) and 14 deaths (12 H1N1, 1 H3N2, and 1 untyped A case). 

    Laboratory monitoring data shows that the influenza virus currently circulating in the community is mainly type A, with type A H1N1 accounting for 74.1% of the cases. 

    This flu season (2023-2024) has seen a cumulative total of 1,224 severe cases (620 H1N1, 494 H3N2, 20 untyped type A, and 90 type B) and 234 deaths (113 H1N1, 102 H3N2, 7 untyped type A, and 12 type B). 

    The majority of severe cases are among those aged 65 and above (64.6%) and those with a history of chronic diseases (82.8%). 69.4% of those affected have not received the flu vaccine this season.

    According to data from the Taiwan Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the COVID-19 epidemic in Taiwan is declining, but it remains at a plateau. 

    In the 34th week (August 23-29), there were 21,969 outpatient and emergency room visits related to COVID-19, a 13.4% decrease compared to the previous week (August 16-22). 

    Last week (August 25-31), there were 69 new locally transmitted severe cases and 18 local deaths. 

    Since October 2025, there have been a cumulative total of 549 locally transmitted cases of COVID-19 complicated by severe illness, of which 91 have died. 

    The majority of severe cases are among those aged 65 and above (72.5%) and those with a history of chronic diseases (83.1%). 85.1% of these cases have not received the COVID-19 vaccine this season. 

    In the past four weeks, the predominant variant strain in locally transmitted cases has been PQ.16.1.1.

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Source: 

Link: https://www.cdc.gov.tw/Bulletin/Detail/GWRkQ03fZuKKWwdv191UyQ?typeid=9

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#Global Respiratory #Virus #Activity: Weekly #Update (WHO, August 28 '26)

 

{Excerpt, from Weekly Epidemiological Record}

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    The findings below are based on surveillance conducted through the WHO Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System (GISRS). 

    More details can be found on the Global Influenza Programme's surveillance and monitoring page.

Overview

    ° In week 33 2026, influenza positivity was below 10% and SARS-CoV-2 activity remained low globally. 

    ° During the past few weeks, influenza positivity remained just below 10% overall in the tropical areas and southern hemisphere temperate and subtropical areas. 

    ° RSV positivity also remained low globally.

Influenza

    ° Globally, influenza detections remained low in week 33 with influenza A and B viruses detected in similar proportions.

    ° In the southern hemisphere, influenza percent positivity was elevated (>10%) in one country in Temperate South America. 

    ° Percent positivity was over 30% in one country in Oceania where a medium increase in activity was observed.

    ° In the northern hemisphere, influenza percent positivity was elevated (>10%) in some countries in Central America and the Caribbean, Tropical South America, Western Africa, Western, Southern and South-East Asia and in single countries in Middle Africa, South West and Northern Europe and Eastern Asia. 

    ° Percent positivity was over 30% in single countries in Tropical South America, Western and Eastern Africa and Southern Asia. 

    ° Increases in activity were observed in some countries in Central America and the Caribbean and Southern Asia and in single countries in Tropical South America, Western, Eastern and Middle Africa, South West Europe and Western Asia.

    ° In the zones with elevated positivity, influenza A(H3N2) was predominant in South West Europe, Eastern Africa, Eastern Asia and Oceania; influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 was predominant in Western, Southern and South-East Asia and influenza B was predominant in Tropical and Temperate South America. 

    ° Influenza A and B were codominant in Central America and the Caribbean and Western Africa and influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 and influenza A(H3N2) were codominant in Middle Africa.

SARS-CoV-2

    ° Globally, SARS-CoV-2 positivity remained stable and low across most reporting countries, with elevated positivity (>10%) reported in countries in Central America and the Caribbean and in single countries in Tropical South America, Southern and South-East Asia. 

    ° Small increases in activity were observed in countries in Central America and the Caribbean, Northern Europe and in a single country in Southern Asia.

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)

    ° RSV positivity was elevated (>10%) in a few countries in Central America and the Caribbean, Tropical and Temperate South America and in a single country in Southern Asia. 

    ° Percent positivity was over 30% in a single country in Temperate South America. 

    ° Small increases in activity were observed in two countries in Central America and the Caribbean. 

    ° RSV and influenza activity were both elevated in single countries in Temperate South America and Southern Asia.

Severity assessment

    ° The severity assessments here are reported from countries, areas and territories. 

    ° Assessments for transmissibility can be reported based on syndromic parameters and/or influenza-specific parameters. 

    ° In the southern hemisphere temperate and subtropical areas, influenza-specific transmissibility was reported as low (1) and moderate (1); transmissibility using syndromic data was reported as moderate (1). 

    ° In the northern hemisphere temperate and subtropical areas, influenza-specific transmissibility was reported as below seasonal threshold (11) and low (2); transmissibility using syndromic data was reported as below seasonal threshold (8). 

    ° Influenza-specific transmissibility was reported as moderate in one country in the tropical areas.

Current update: Global Respiratory Virus Activity: Weekly Update N° 592

All past updates: Global respiratory virus updates

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Source: 

Link: https://www.who.int/publications/journals/weekly-epidemiological-record/wer101-34

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#USA, #Wastewater Data for Avian #Influenza #H5 (US CDC, August 28 '26)

 

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A(H5) detections in the past week

Time Period: August 16, 2026 - August 22, 2026

    -- A(H5) Detection: 3 site(s) (0.7%)

    -- No Detection: 437 site(s) (99.3%)

    -- No samples: 72 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 #infection (ECDC, August 28 '26): 877 cases so far, of which 428 in #Italy

 

{Summary}

Week 35, 2026 | Produced on 27 August 2026 at 12:45, based on data submitted up until and including 26 August 2026.

Current situation

    ° Since the beginning of the 2026 transmission season, and as at 26 August, 124 areas affected by West Nile virus (WNV) have been identified in 15 countries across Europe.

    ° These areas are located in: 

        § Italy (55), 

        § Greece (17), 

        § Romania (15), 

        § France (13), 

        § Serbia (six), 

        § Spain (four), 

        § North Macedonia (three), 

        § Croatia (two), 

        § Germany (two), 

        § Albania (one), 

        § Austria (one), 

        § Cyprus (one), 

        § Hungary (one), 

        § Kosovo* (one) and 

        § the Netherlands (one).

    ° This week, 25 areas are reported as affected for the first time this season. (...).

    ° The 15 countries have reported 877 locally acquired human cases of WNV infection: 

        § Italy (428 cases), 

        § Greece (222 cases, of which eight with unknown place of infection), 

        § Spain (79 cases), 

        § North Macedonia (49 cases), 

        § Romania (45 cases), 

        § France (28 cases), 

        § Serbia (11 cases), 

        § Croatia (three cases), 

        § the Netherlands (three cases), 

        § Austria (two cases), 

        § Cyprus (two cases), 

        § Germany (two cases), 

        § Albania (one case), 

        § Hungary (one case) and 

        § Kosovo* (one case)

(...)

Source: 

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

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#Italy, #WNV & #Usutu Virus #Human Cases Weekly #Surveillance Report (ISS, August 27 '26): 432 cases so far this season, of which 223 #WNND

 

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Highlights

    ° Since the beginning of surveillance season and as of August 26 '26, 432  human cases of infection with West Nile Virus have been confirmed in Italy. They were 312 last week. 

    ° Of these: 

        § 223 were WNND (of these, three were imported: 1 from Maldives, 1 from France and 1 from Belgium), 

        § 63 were asymptomatic cases in blood donors, 

        § 144 were West Nile Fever cases, 

    ° Among confirmed cases, 17 were fatal. 

    ° Case Fatality Rate (CFR) is so far at 7.2% (last year it was 13.9%) for severe neuroinvasive cases.

    ° So far this season, 10 human cases of infection with Usutu virus have been confirmed.

(...)

Source:

Link: https://www.epicentro.iss.it/westnile/bollettino/Bollettino_WND_2026_5.pdf

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#Taiwan, #Epidemics of Respiratory Viruses (#COVID19, #Influenza, #Enteroviruses) Weekly Update (CDC, August 25 '26): PQ.16.1.1 Variant Still Predominant

 

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    CDC monitoring data shows that the domestic COVID-19 epidemic is at a plateau. 

    In week 33 (August 16-22), there were 24,995 outpatient and emergency room visits for COVID-19, a 6.0% decrease compared to the previous week (August 9-15). 

    Last week (August 18-24), there were 59 new locally transmitted severe cases and 19 new locally transmitted deaths. 

    Since October 2025, there have been a total of 480 local cases of COVID-19 complicated by severe illness, of which 73 have died. 

    The majority of severe cases are among those aged 65 and above (73.5%) and those with a history of chronic diseases (82.5%). 86.5% of these cases have not been vaccinated this season. 

    In the past four weeks, the predominant variant strain in local cases has been PQ.16.1.1.     

    As of August 24, approximately 1.823 million doses of the COVID-19 vaccine have been administered this season. There are currently about 111,000 doses remaining nationwide, which will be available until September 9. Eligible and needy individuals are advised to take advantage of this time and get vaccinated as soon as possible.

    Regarding the influenza epidemic, in week 33 (August 16-22), there were 94,340 outpatient and emergency room visits for influenza-like illnesses, a slight decrease of 2.5% compared to the previous week. 

    Additionally, last week (August 18-24), there were 64 new cases of severe influenza complications (59 H1N1 and 5 H3N2) and 15 deaths (all H1N1). 

    Laboratory surveillance data shows that the influenza virus currently circulating in the community is predominantly type A, with type A H1N1 accounting for a high percentage at 69.7%. 

    This flu season (2014-2015) saw a cumulative total of 1,139 severe cases (540 H1N1, 491 H3N2, 18 untyped A, and 90 B) and 220 deaths (101 H1N1, 101 H3N2, 6 untyped A, and 12 B). 

    The majority of severe cases were among those aged 65 and over (63.8%) and those with a history of chronic illness (82.4%). 71.0% of patients had not received the flu vaccine this season.

    Regarding enterovirus cases, in week 33 (August 16-22), there were 6,546 outpatient and emergency room visits, similar to the previous week (6,646), indicating a stable recent trend. 

    Laboratory surveillance over the past four weeks showed that Coxsackievirus A6 was the most prevalent enterovirus in the community, followed by enterovirus D68 and Coxsackievirus A16. 

    This year (2026), there have been a total of 6 confirmed cases of enterovirus infection complicated with severe illness (including 1 death), including 4 cases of enterovirus D68, 1 case each of Coxsackievirus A4 and Coxsackievirus A16. 

    Regarding the dengue fever outbreak, as of August 24th this year, there have been a total of 134 confirmed dengue fever cases, including 7 local cases (all residing in Kaohsiung City) and 127 imported cases. The imported cases were mainly from Southeast Asian and South Asian countries such as Indonesia (26 cases), Vietnam (26 cases), and the Maldives (16 cases). The cumulative number of cases is lower than the same period in 2025 (152 cases).

(...)

Source: 

Link: https://www.cdc.gov.tw/Bulletin/Detail/QiAsLBvifNAj7FJzGc-ApQ?typeid=9

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#Italy: A Suspected Imported #Ebola {Bundibugyo} case tested negative (Autonomous Province of Trento, August 24 '26)

 

Laboratory tests performed by the Luigi Sacco Hospital in Milan on the suspected Ebola case reported in Trentino yesterday were negative. The tests therefore ruled out infection.

    The Ministry of Health's protocol for suspected Ebola cases was activated yesterday after an adult returning from a trip to the Democratic Republic of Congo exhibited symptoms consistent with the virus. 

    

    The individual was immediately placed in isolation at home, and healthcare workers collected biological samples and delivered them to the Luigi Sacco Hospital in Milan. 

Source: 

Link: https://www.ufficiostampa.provincia.tn.it/Comunicati/Caso-sospetto-di-Ebola-esito-negativo-dai-test-di-laboratorio

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#USA, #Wastewater Data for Avian #Influenza #H5 (US CDC, August 21 '26)

 

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A(H5) detections in the past week

Time Period: August 09, 2026 - August 15, 2026

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

    -- No Detection: 426 site(s) (99.5%)

    -- No samples: 79 site(s)

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Source: 

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

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#USA, Two #human #infections with #influenza #H1N2v virus were reported by the #Michigan (US CDC, August 21 '26)

 

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Novel Influenza A Virus Infections

    Two human infections with influenza A(H1N2) variant (A(H1N2)v) virus were reported by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.

    The patients, who are <18 years of age, initially developed illness and sought healthcare during the week ending August 15, 2026 (Week 32). 

    The patients were not hospitalized, one patient received influenza antiviral treatment, and both are recovering from their illnesses. 

    Investigation by local and state public health officials identified that both patients, who have not had contact with one another, had attended the same agricultural fair where ill swine were present prior to their illness onset. 

    No additional cases of human infection with A(H1N2)v virus associated with these cases or the fair have been identified.

    These are the third and fourth human infections with a variant influenza virus reported in the 2025-2026 season; all four have been influenza A(H1N2)v viruses.

    When an influenza virus that normally circulates in swine (but not people) is detected in a person, it is called a “variant” influenza virus. 

    Most human infections with variant influenza viruses occur following exposure to swine, but human-to-human transmission can occur. 

    It is important to note that in most cases, variant influenza viruses have not shown the ability to spread easily and sustainably from person to person.

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Source: 

Link: https://www.cdc.gov/fluview/surveillance/2026-week-32.html

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#USA, Public health officials report first #Idaho #WNV #encephalitis case of 2026 (DoH, August 18 '26)

 

    Idaho’s first reported case of human West Nile virus (WNV) meningitis this year was identified in a Canyon County resident over the age of 65. This person had been hospitalized for the illness but is recovering at home. 

    WNV is spread by the bite of an infected mosquito and can lead to severe disease in some people. West Nile neuroinvasive disease is a rare but serious complication of West Nile virus infection that occurs when the virus affects the brain or spinal cord, causing conditions such as meningitis, encephalitis (swelling of the brain), or paralysis.

    “If you or someone you know takes medications that suppress your immune system, such as treatments for cancer, autoimmune diseases, or organ transplants, your risk of developing severe West Nile virus illness after a mosquito bite, including death may be up to 40% higher,” said Southwest District Health Epidemiologist Lekshmi Rita Venugopal. 

    “With West Nile virus detected in mosquitoes in Southwest Idaho again this summer, it's especially important for people with weakened immune systems to avoid mosquito bites.”

    Idaho State Epidemiologist Dr. Christine Hahn said public health officials strongly encourage Idahoans to protect themselves and their families from mosquito bites.

    “The report of the first severe West Nile virus disease of the season in an Idaho resident is a good reminder for all of us to take protective measures against mosquito bites,” she said. 

    “This includes wearing insect repellent and protective clothing in addition to reducing standing water around gardens and homes where mosquitoes can lay eggs.”

    Symptoms of WNV infection often include fever, headache, body aches, nausea, and sometimes swollen lymph glands or a skin rash. 

    WNV infection can result in severe illness, especially in people 50 years or older, leading to hospitalization and even death. Talk to your healthcare provider about testing for WNV to confirm your illness.

    There are no licensed vaccines or medicines to prevent WNV disease in people. 

    To protect against WNV infection, people should avoid mosquitoes, particularly between dusk and dawn when the mosquitoes that spread WNV are most active. 

    In addition, everyone should:

        § Wear long, loose-fitting shirts and pants when outdoors and apply DEET or other EPA-approved insect repellent to exposed skin and clothing. Carefully follow instructions on the product label, especially for children.

        § Keep mosquitoes outside the home by using screens on windows and doors or air conditioning, if available. Repair or replace damaged screens. 

        § Reduce standing water on property. Check and drain toys, flowerpots, buckets, kiddie pools, and other items left outdoors that can hold water.

        § Change bird baths, static decorative ponds, kiddie pools, and animal water tanks weekly to reduce suitable mosquito habitats.

        § Consider larvicides for bodies of water that will not be used for drinking and cannot be covered or dumped out.

    WNV activity in mosquitoes has been detected in seven Idaho counties this year by participating mosquito abatement districts.

    For more information, visit the following resources:

        ° https://westnile.idaho.gov

        ° www.cdc.gov/west-nile-virus/index.html

        ° www.epa.gov/insect-repellents

        ° www.cdc.gov/mosquitoes/mosquito-control/mosquito-control-at-home.html

        ° www.cdc.gov/han/php/notices/han00532.html

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Source: 

Link: https://healthandwelfare.idaho.gov/news/public-health-officials-report-first-idaho-west-nile-virus-meningitis-case-2026

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#Taiwan, Ministry of Health urges #Schools to prepare for start of lessons as #COVID19 #epidemic still active (August 18 '26, extract): PQ.16.1.1 Variant Predominates

 

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    According to CDC monitoring data, the COVID-19 epidemic in Taiwan continues to rise. 

    In the 32nd week (August 9-15), there were 26,214 outpatient and emergency room visits related to COVID-19, an increase of 4.5% compared to the previous week (August 2-8). 

    Last week (August 11-17), there were 84 new locally transmitted severe cases and 12 new locally transmitted deaths. 

    Since October 2025, there have been a total of 421 local cases of COVID-19 complicated by severe illness, of which 54 have died. 

    The majority of severe cases are among those aged 65 and above (73.9%) and those with a history of chronic diseases (83.6%). 88.8% of these cases have not been vaccinated this season. 

    In the past four weeks, the predominant variant strain in local cases is PQ.16.1.1. 

    The global positivity rate is trending upward, particularly in Europe and Africa, while the Western Pacific region remains at a plateau. 

    The US is experiencing a rise in cases, Japan is fluctuating around a relative high point, South Korea's situation is stable, China reached its peak and is now declining weekly, and Hong Kong's situation continues to decline. 

    The most prevalent global variant strain recently is PQ.16.1.1, followed by NB.1.8.1 and XFG.

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Source: 

Link: https://www.cdc.gov.tw/Bulletin/Detail/lCnPtiCcsOLLsYsQqdYp3w?typeid=9

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#Netherlands, #WNV detected in a #blood #donor (RIVM, August 17 '26): First case since 2020

 

    A West Nile virus infection has been confirmed in a blood donor in the Netherlands. 

    This occurred in August 2026 during a Sanquin study among blood donors from areas where the West Nile virus had previously been detected in humans, horses, birds or mosquitoes. 

    A laboratory test (PCR) detected the virus in the donor, who had no symptoms and is still not showing any. 

    The person lives in the province of Utrecht and has not been abroad recently. It is therefore likely that the infection was contracted in the Netherlands.

First confirmed case of infection in a human in 2026

    This is the first confirmed case of a human infection in 2026 that originated in the Netherlands. The last time people contracted a West Nile virus infection in the Netherlands was in 2020.

West Nile virus and West Nile fever

    The West Nile virus occurs in birds. 

    The common house mosquito can contract the virus when feeding on the blood of an infected bird. 

    An infected mosquito can then pass the virus on to other birds, to mammals such as horses, and to humans. 

    Humans and horses can fall ill with the West Nile virus, but they cannot pass the virus on to others. 

    The disease caused by the West Nile virus is called West Nile fever. 

    80 per cent of people with West Nile fever have no symptoms, 19 per cent have flu-like symptoms and 1 per cent may develop neurological symptoms. 

    People over 50 and people with weakened immune systems due to illness or medication have a higher risk of becoming very ill from West Nile fever. 

    A small proportion of people who have a severe form of West Nile fever may die.

Mosquitoes capable of transmitting West Nile virus are active

    The fact that, within a short space of time, a horse, a bird and a human have now tested positive for the West Nile virus in different parts of the Netherlands shows that there are mosquitoes active in the Netherlands that carry the West Nile virus. It is still very unlikely for people in the Netherlands to contract West Nile fever.

What can you do to prevent West Nile virus?

    Mosquitoes are mainly active at dusk. To minimise the risk of being bitten, you could, for example:

        § wear clothing that covers the skin (long sleeves, long trousers)

        § keep mosquitoes out (insect screens for windows/doors)

        § use mosquito repellents on exposed skin

        § sleep under a mosquito net

Cooperation and monitoring

    Experts from organisations including the National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), the GGDs, Erasmus MC, Royal GD, WBVR, UU, Sanquin and the NVWA are monitoring the situation closely.

Source: 

Link: https://www.rivm.nl/en/news/west-nile-virus-detected-in-a-blood-donor

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#Wastewater Data for Avian #Influenza #H5 (US CDC, August 14 '26)

 

{Excerpt}

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A(H5) detections in the past week

Time Period: August 02, 2026 - August 08, 2026

    -- A(H5) Detection: 5 site(s) (1.2%)

    -- No Detection: 422 site(s) (98.8%)

    -- No samples: 88 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 Update (ECDC, August 14 '26): 429 cases so far, of which 224 in #Italy

 

{Summary}

Week 33, 2026 | Produced on 14 August 2026 at 06:00, based on data submitted up until and including 13 August 2026.

Current situation

    Since the beginning of the 2026 transmission season, and as at 13 August, 77 areas affected by West Nile virus (WNV) have been identified in nine countries across Europe.

    These areas are located in 

        § Italy (40), 

        § Greece (13), 

        § Romania (12), 

        § France (four), 

        § North Macedonia (three), 

        § Spain (two), 

        § Germany (one), 

        § Kosovo* (one) and 

        § Serbia (one).

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

    The nine countries have reported 429 locally acquired human cases of WNV infection: 

        § Italy has reported 224, 

        § Greece 105, 

        § Spain 42, 

        § North Macedonia 30, 

        § Romania 18, 

        § France six, 

        § Serbia two, 

        § Germany one and 

        § Kosovo* one case.

(...)

Source: 

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

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Seasonal #surveillance in #humans and #animals in 2026 for #WNV, Monthly Report (ECDC, August 12 '26): 245 cases so far

 

August 2026 | Produced on 12 August 2026 at 12:00 based on data submitted up until and including 5 August 2026

Epidemiological summary

Findings from human surveillance

    In 2026, and as at 5 August, seven countries in Europe have reported 245 locally acquired {1} human cases of West Nile Virus (WNV) infection. 

    The earliest and latest date of onset were on 12 May 2026 and 1 August 2026, respectively. 

    Locally acquired cases have been reported by Italy (139 cases), Greece (65, of which four with unknown place of infection), Spain (17 cases), North Macedonia (13 cases), Romania (six cases), France (four cases) and Germany (one case). 

    In Europe, 12 deaths have been reported by Greece (six deaths), Italy (five deaths) and Romania (one death).

    The number of human cases reported so far (245 cases) is below the average for the corresponding period over the past decade (403 cases). 

    However, reporting delays may result in an under-estimation of the current burden, as the 2026 data remain provisional, whereas the ten-year average is based on consolidated data from previous years. 

    In addition, this ten-year average is influenced by several particularly intense WNV transmission seasons, notably in 2018 (1 065 cases reported up to the corresponding week), 2022 (781 cases) and 2024 (654 cases).

    To date, most cases have been reported in Italy (139 cases) and Greece (65 cases). 

    Although the number of cases reported in Italy is lower than during the same period in 2025 (168 cases), it remains the most affected country in Europe in 2026. 

    Greece has reported more cases in 2026 than during the same period in 2025 (65 cases compared with 26 cases). 

    WNV circulation is currently most intense in the Attica NUTS 2 region (48 cases), with Anatoliki Attiki (East Attica, 34 cases) and Voreios Tomeas Athinon (North Athens, seven cases) most affected.

    As at 5 August 2026, locally acquired human cases of WNV infection had been reported in 58 NUTS 3 regions across seven countries. 

    This is higher than at the same point in 2025, when cases were reported in 40 NUTS 3 regions across six countries. 

    However, the geographical spread observed so far in 2026 remains well below the final extent recorded in recent seasons: by the end of 2025, affected regions numbered 160 and in 2024 there were 218. 

    The 2024 season remains the largest WNV season on record in terms of geographical spread.

    This year, six regions reported locally acquired human cases of WNV infection for the first time ever: France in Pyrénées-Orientales (FRJ15); Germany in Rhein-Pfalz-Kreis (DEB3I); Italy in Campobasso (ITF22) and Viterbo (ITI41); North Macedonia in Pelagoniski (MK005) and Vardarski (MK001).

    Similar to previous years, most cases were reported among males aged 65 years and above. 

    Most cases were hospitalised (72%) and presented with neurological symptoms (58%). 

    The proportion hospitalised was lower than the average reported during the previous decade (87%), while the proportion with neurological symptoms was also slightly lower than the historical 10-year average (64%). 

    The case fatality rate was approximately 5%, lower than the average reported during the previous decade (11%). 

    However, this estimate should be interpreted with caution, as clinical outcomes may not yet be known for all reported cases and additional deaths may be recorded as the season progresses and data are consolidated.

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

Findings from veterinary surveillance

    From the veterinary perspective, 17 WNV outbreaks among equids and 74 outbreaks among birds have been reported in Europe in 2026. 

    The earliest start date of an outbreak among equids and birds was on 30 March 2026 in France and 31 March 2026 in Italy, while the latest onset of an outbreak among equids and birds was, respectively, on 31 July 2026 in Netherlands and 28 July 2026 in Italy. 

    Outbreaks among equids have been reported by France (five outbreaks), Greece (five outbreaks), Italy (five outbreaks), the Netherlands (one outbreak) and Spain (one outbreak). 

    Outbreaks among birds have been reported by Italy (64 outbreaks), France (five outbreaks), Spain (three outbreaks), Austria (one outbreak) and Belgium (one outbreak).

    No information was available on the equid species involved in the outbreaks reported in the Animal Disease Information System (ADIS). 

    The bird species most frequently associated with the reported outbreaks were the common magpie (23) and the hooded crow (20), followed by the carrion crow (5), the common kestrel (5), the Eurasian blackbird (5), the yellow-legged gull (3), Adalbert’s eagle (2), the common wood-pigeon (2), and the little owl (2). 

    Single outbreaks were associated with the common loon, the common raven, the European turtle-dove, the golden eagle, the grey heron, the house sparrow and the northern goshawk.

    The monthly number of WNV outbreaks in equids reported during the first part of 2026 was comparable to the corresponding 10-year monthly average (2016−-2025). 

    However, the number of equid outbreaks in July 2026 remained below the levels observed in July 2018, 2024 and 2025, years characterised by particularly high WNV intensity. 

    In contrast, the number of WNV outbreaks in birds slightly exceeded the corresponding four-year monthly average (2022–2025) in April and May, and was substantially higher in June. 

    This trend reversed in July 2026, when the number of reported outbreaks in birds fell below the four-year average, although it remained higher than in July 2025. However, it should be noted that reporting delays may affect the July numbers, as some outbreaks occurring during that month may be notified in August.

    As at 5 August 2026, outbreaks in birds and/or equids have been reported in 43 NUTS 3 regions across seven countries. This compares with 55 regions (10 countries) during the same period in 2025 and 42 regions (eight countries) in 2024. All seven countries reported WNV outbreaks in birds and/or equids in 2025 and in prior years, reflecting endemic WNV activity in these territories. However, as at 5 August, outbreaks in birds and/or equids were reported to ADIS for the first time in the following six regions: by France in Hauts-de-Seine (FR105) and Seine-et-Marne (FR102); by Belgium in Arr. Namur (BE352), by Greece in Drama (EL514), by Italy in Genova (ITC33) and by the Netherlands in Delf en Westland (NL362).

Patterns across human and veterinary surveillance

    Four countries – France, Greece, Italy, and Spain – reported both human WNV infections and outbreaks in equids and/or birds. 

    As at 5 August, Italy accounted for most of the reported human cases (56.7%) and animal outbreaks (75.8%). 

    Greece reported the second-largest share of human cases (26.5%) but only five equid outbreaks and no bird outbreaks, representing 5.5% of all reported animal outbreaks.

    Differences in the patterns observed across European countries may reflect a combination of ecological, climatic and surveillance-related factors. 

    Favourable climatic conditions and the presence of ecological hotspots, such as wetlands and agricultural areas, may support mosquito vector populations and influence the distribution and behaviour of animal hosts, thereby facilitating WNV circulation. At the same time, differences in WNV surveillance systems across Europe may affect detection and reporting rates.

    The first indication of WNV activity may arise from either human or animal surveillance, depending on local epidemiology, detection capacity and surveillance system sensitivity. Therefore, the absence of reports from one sector should not be interpreted as evidence that WNV is not circulating. 

    In France (Pyrénées-Orientales, FRJ15), Greece (Drama, EL514), and Italy (Genova, ITC33), human cases were reported before, or in the absence of, notified outbreaks in birds or equids. 

    Conversely, in Belgium (Arr. Namur, BE352), France (Hauts-de-Seine, FR105 and Seine-et-Marne, FR102) and the Netherlands (Delft en Westland, NL362), animal detections preceded human cases. 

    Belgium is a relevant example, as WNV was first reported in the country in 2025 through avian surveillance, with no previous detections in humans and animals. In 2026, it has again been identified in birds in a previously unaffected region, highlighting the role of avian surveillance in detecting local virus circulation and geographical spread.

    Active mosquito surveillance is also important for the early detection of WNV circulation. However, results on WNV detection in mosquitoes are not included in this report because they are not legally required to be reported at European level, and the available information is therefore scattered and often project-based.

Seasonal outlook

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

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

(...)

Source: 

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

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