By Gabriele Fontana - https://www.flickr.com/photos/gabry1970/5175636373/, CC BY-SA 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=109273634
Source: Wikipedia, https://it.wikipedia.org/wiki/Locomotiva_FS_D.445
____
By Gabriele Fontana - https://www.flickr.com/photos/gabry1970/5175636373/, CC BY-SA 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=109273634
Source: Wikipedia, https://it.wikipedia.org/wiki/Locomotiva_FS_D.445
____
I am an Italian blogger, active since 2005 with main focus on emerging infectious diseases such as avian influenza, SARS, antibiotics resistance, and many other global Health issues. Other fields of interest are: climate change, global warming, geological and biological sciences. My activity consists mainly in collection and analysis of news, public services updates, confronting sources and making decision about what are the 'signals' of an impending crisis (an outbreak, for example). When a signal is detected, I follow traces during the entire course of an event. I started in 2005 my blog ''A TIME'S MEMORY'', now with more than 40,000 posts and 3 millions of web interactions. Subsequently I added an Italian Language blog, then discontinued because of very low traffic and interest. I contributed for seven years to a public forum (FluTrackers.com) in the midst of the Ebola epidemic in West Africa in 2014, I left the site to continue alone my data tracking job.
AJR Am J Roentgenol
I am an Italian blogger, active since 2005 with main focus on emerging infectious diseases such as avian influenza, SARS, antibiotics resistance, and many other global Health issues. Other fields of interest are: climate change, global warming, geological and biological sciences. My activity consists mainly in collection and analysis of news, public services updates, confronting sources and making decision about what are the 'signals' of an impending crisis (an outbreak, for example). When a signal is detected, I follow traces during the entire course of an event. I started in 2005 my blog ''A TIME'S MEMORY'', now with more than 40,000 posts and 3 millions of web interactions. Subsequently I added an Italian Language blog, then discontinued because of very low traffic and interest. I contributed for seven years to a public forum (FluTrackers.com) in the midst of the Ebola epidemic in West Africa in 2014, I left the site to continue alone my data tracking job.
Am J Med
I am an Italian blogger, active since 2005 with main focus on emerging infectious diseases such as avian influenza, SARS, antibiotics resistance, and many other global Health issues. Other fields of interest are: climate change, global warming, geological and biological sciences. My activity consists mainly in collection and analysis of news, public services updates, confronting sources and making decision about what are the 'signals' of an impending crisis (an outbreak, for example). When a signal is detected, I follow traces during the entire course of an event. I started in 2005 my blog ''A TIME'S MEMORY'', now with more than 40,000 posts and 3 millions of web interactions. Subsequently I added an Italian Language blog, then discontinued because of very low traffic and interest. I contributed for seven years to a public forum (FluTrackers.com) in the midst of the Ebola epidemic in West Africa in 2014, I left the site to continue alone my data tracking job.
{Summary}
World Organisation for Animal Health (2025). – The State of the World’s Animal Health 2025. Paris, 124pp. https://doi.org/10.20506/woah.3586. Licence: CC BY-SA 3.0 IGO.
Foreword
Animal health is inextricably linked to human health, the stability of ecosystems and the strength of economies. In a world facing increasingly complex global challenges – emerging infectious diseases, climate change, antimicrobial resistance and food insecurity – ensuring the health of animals is crucial. This first iteration of The State of the World’s Animal Health report is a landmark publication released by the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) for its 92nd General Session of the World Assembly, which reflects our commitment to evidence-based decision-making and data-driven action. Drawing on WOAH’s comprehensive information systems and the collective expertise of its Members and expert network, this report offers a clear, objective and timely analysis of the global animal health landscape, helping us understand the current situation and the path toward a healthier future. Animal diseases know no borders. Whether affecting livestock, wildlife or aquatic species, their impact can be devastating – threatening livelihoods, public health, food supply chains, international trade and biodiversity. Our ability to prevent, detect and respond to these threats depends on robust surveillance, strong Veterinary Services, and the effective implementation of science-based policies. This report serves as a valuable resource for the veterinary workforce, researchers, policy-makers, and all those invested in the health of animals and the resilience of our societies. It provides critical insights into disease trends, the situation of veterinary capacities worldwide and the effectiveness of interventions. Most importantly, it reinforces the message that proactive investment in animal health is an investment in global health security. In addition to an objective analysis of the current situation, the core focus of this inaugural report is vaccination – one key element of disease prevention and control. Vaccination, alongside other measures, has saved countless lives, prevented economic losses, and reduced the need for antimicrobial treatments, playing a fundamental role in the fight against antimicrobial resistance. From eradicating deadly diseases like rinderpest to controlling threats such as rabies, foot and mouth disease and avian influenza, vaccines remain a powerful tool at our disposal. Yet, access to vaccines remains uneven, and challenges persist in vaccine research, production, distribution and uptake. Strengthening global cooperation and ensuring equitable access to safe, effective vaccines, alongside other control measures must be a priority for all of us. Valuable insights provided by this report will serve the discussion of this year’s General Session Forum: “Veterinary vaccines and vaccination: from science to action – reflections for change”. Looking ahead, we must continue to strengthen our data collection and analysis, foster innovation in disease prevention, and reinforce global veterinary capacities. This report is not just a static reflection of where we are – it is a dynamic call to action. A call for deeper collaboration, greater investment, and a shared commitment to building a future where animal health is protected, global health is secured and sustainable development is realised, and food security is strengthened for generations to come. Because animal health is our health. It’s everyone’s health.
Dr Emmanuelle Soubeyran, Director General, World Organisation for Animal Health
(...)
Source: World Animal Health Organization, https://www.woah.org/en/document/the-state-of-the-worlds-animal-health-2025/
____
I am an Italian blogger, active since 2005 with main focus on emerging infectious diseases such as avian influenza, SARS, antibiotics resistance, and many other global Health issues. Other fields of interest are: climate change, global warming, geological and biological sciences. My activity consists mainly in collection and analysis of news, public services updates, confronting sources and making decision about what are the 'signals' of an impending crisis (an outbreak, for example). When a signal is detected, I follow traces during the entire course of an event. I started in 2005 my blog ''A TIME'S MEMORY'', now with more than 40,000 posts and 3 millions of web interactions. Subsequently I added an Italian Language blog, then discontinued because of very low traffic and interest. I contributed for seven years to a public forum (FluTrackers.com) in the midst of the Ebola epidemic in West Africa in 2014, I left the site to continue alone my data tracking job.
Abstract
The Eurasian avian-like swine (EA) H1N1 virus has been widely prevalent in the Chinese swine population and has caused infections in human. However, knowledge regarding its pathogenic mechanisms remains limited. In this study, we analyzed the pathogenic determinants of two G4 genotype EA H1N1 viruses (A/Swine/Guangdong/SS12/2017 and A/Swine/Jiangxi/1110/2017) with differing pathogenicity by constructing a series of reassortant and mutant viruses. The HA-G219A mutation was found to be determinant of pathogenicity in mice. Subsequent analyses revealed that this mutation enhances viral replication in human cells, improves thermal stability, reduces HA activation pH, and alters receptor-binding properties. Furthermore, HA-G219A mutation may be an adaptive mutation that facilitates influenza virus adaptation to swine, with its prevalence increasing in the swine population. This mutation may support cross-species transmission of EA H1N1 swine influenza viruses or genetic exchange with other virus subtypes/genotypes, potentially contributing to the emergence of pandemic viruses. These findings improve our understanding of EA H1N1 pathogenicity and highlight the critical need for ongoing surveillance of influenza viruses in pigs.
Source: Veterinary Microbiology, https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0378113525002007?via%3Dihub
____
I am an Italian blogger, active since 2005 with main focus on emerging infectious diseases such as avian influenza, SARS, antibiotics resistance, and many other global Health issues. Other fields of interest are: climate change, global warming, geological and biological sciences. My activity consists mainly in collection and analysis of news, public services updates, confronting sources and making decision about what are the 'signals' of an impending crisis (an outbreak, for example). When a signal is detected, I follow traces during the entire course of an event. I started in 2005 my blog ''A TIME'S MEMORY'', now with more than 40,000 posts and 3 millions of web interactions. Subsequently I added an Italian Language blog, then discontinued because of very low traffic and interest. I contributed for seven years to a public forum (FluTrackers.com) in the midst of the Ebola epidemic in West Africa in 2014, I left the site to continue alone my data tracking job.
Abstract
In 2023, highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) heavily affected gulls in Europe. In July, a mass mortality event was reported in the Black-legged Kittiwake (Rissa tridactyla) breeding colony at Ekkerøy in Northern Norway. The cause was confirmed to be infection with the HPAI H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b virus, genotype EA-2022-BB. We describe the outbreak in Kittiwakes, including pathological and virological investigations, and discuss the management and zoonotic potential. With more than 15,000 dead birds reported, we estimate that the outbreak caused a reduction in the Kittiwake population at Ekkerøy of at least 50%. Diseased birds exhibited neurological signs. Necropsy of ten birds revealed a peracute fatal systemic disease, with severe lesions in the brain and pancreas co-localizing with the presence of viral RNA and antigen. Vascular expression of α2,3-linked sialic acids and viral RNA/antigen may reflect hematogenous virus spread. Further studies should investigate the long-term impact of HPAI on Kittiwake populations.
Source: BioRxIV, https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.1101/2025.05.23.655725v1
____
I am an Italian blogger, active since 2005 with main focus on emerging infectious diseases such as avian influenza, SARS, antibiotics resistance, and many other global Health issues. Other fields of interest are: climate change, global warming, geological and biological sciences. My activity consists mainly in collection and analysis of news, public services updates, confronting sources and making decision about what are the 'signals' of an impending crisis (an outbreak, for example). When a signal is detected, I follow traces during the entire course of an event. I started in 2005 my blog ''A TIME'S MEMORY'', now with more than 40,000 posts and 3 millions of web interactions. Subsequently I added an Italian Language blog, then discontinued because of very low traffic and interest. I contributed for seven years to a public forum (FluTrackers.com) in the midst of the Ebola epidemic in West Africa in 2014, I left the site to continue alone my data tracking job.
Abstract
Background.
Sudan virus (SUDV) has caused multiple outbreaks in Uganda over the past two decades, leading to significant morbidity and mortality. The recent outbreaks in 2022 and 2025 highlight the ongoing threat posed by SUDV and the challenges in its containment. This study aims to characterize the epidemiological patterns and phylogenomic evolution of SUDV outbreaks in Uganda, identifying key factors influencing transmission and disease severity.
Methods.
We conducted a retrospective observational study analyzing epidemiological and genomic data from SUDV outbreaks in Uganda between 2000 and 2025. Epidemiological data were collected from official sources, including the Ugandan Ministry of Health and the World Health Organization, supplemented with reports from public health organizations. Genomic sequences of SUDV were analyzed to investigate viral evolution and identify genetic variations associated with pathogenicity and transmissibility.
Results.
The 2022 outbreak involved 164 confirmed cases and a case fatality rate (CFR) of 33.5%, with significant geographic variation in case distribution. The 2025 outbreak, still ongoing, was first detected in Kampala, with evidence of both nosocomial and community transmission. Phylogenomic analysis revealed the presence of two main genetic groups, representing Sudan and Uganda, respectively. The genetic variability of the Ugandan cluster is higher than that observed in Sudan, suggesting a greater expansion potential, which aligns with the current outbreak. Epidemiological findings indicate that human mobility, weaknesses in the health system, and delays in detection contribute to the amplification of the outbreak.
Conclusions.
Our findings underscore the importance of integrated genomic and epidemiological surveillance in understanding SUDV transmission dynamics. The recurrent emergence of SUDV highlights the need for improved outbreak preparedness, rapid response mechanisms, and international collaboration. Strengthening real-time surveillance and enhancing healthcare system resilience are critical to mitigating the impact of future outbreaks.
Source: Infectious Disease Reports, https://www.mdpi.com/2036-7449/17/3/44
____
I am an Italian blogger, active since 2005 with main focus on emerging infectious diseases such as avian influenza, SARS, antibiotics resistance, and many other global Health issues. Other fields of interest are: climate change, global warming, geological and biological sciences. My activity consists mainly in collection and analysis of news, public services updates, confronting sources and making decision about what are the 'signals' of an impending crisis (an outbreak, for example). When a signal is detected, I follow traces during the entire course of an event. I started in 2005 my blog ''A TIME'S MEMORY'', now with more than 40,000 posts and 3 millions of web interactions. Subsequently I added an Italian Language blog, then discontinued because of very low traffic and interest. I contributed for seven years to a public forum (FluTrackers.com) in the midst of the Ebola epidemic in West Africa in 2014, I left the site to continue alone my data tracking job.
{Excerpt}
Time Period: May 11, 2025 - May 17, 2025
-- H5 Detection: 18 sites (4.5%)
-- No Detection: 381 sites (95.5%)
-- No samples in last week: 59 sites
(...)
Source: US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, https://www.cdc.gov/bird-flu/h5-monitoring/index.html
____
I am an Italian blogger, active since 2005 with main focus on emerging infectious diseases such as avian influenza, SARS, antibiotics resistance, and many other global Health issues. Other fields of interest are: climate change, global warming, geological and biological sciences. My activity consists mainly in collection and analysis of news, public services updates, confronting sources and making decision about what are the 'signals' of an impending crisis (an outbreak, for example). When a signal is detected, I follow traces during the entire course of an event. I started in 2005 my blog ''A TIME'S MEMORY'', now with more than 40,000 posts and 3 millions of web interactions. Subsequently I added an Italian Language blog, then discontinued because of very low traffic and interest. I contributed for seven years to a public forum (FluTrackers.com) in the midst of the Ebola epidemic in West Africa in 2014, I left the site to continue alone my data tracking job.
Abstract
Since their first detection in 1996, highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses with H5 haemagglutinin of the A/Goose/Guangdong/1/1996 (Gs/Gd) lineage have caused outbreaks in domestic and wild animals associated with mass morbidity and mortality, and economic losses as well as sporadic human infections. These viruses have spread to hosts across the European, Asian, African, and North and South American continents, and most recently Antarctica, representing a major threat to wildlife, domestic animals and humans. Owing to continuous circulation in poultry, Gs/Gd lineage viruses have diversified into numerous distinct genetic and antigenic (sub)clades, and genetic diversity has further increased by extensive reassortment with low pathogenic avian influenza viruses of wild birds. In this Review, we discuss the historical emergence of Gs/Gd lineage viruses and their evolution and geographical spread. An overview of the major determinants of host range and cross-species transmission is provided to summarize phenotypic changes that may signal increased zoonotic or pandemic risks. The recent unusual outbreaks in wild carnivorous mammals and dairy cows is discussed, as well as the changing risk to humans. Countermeasures and mitigation strategies are described from the One Health perspective for future (pre-)pandemic preparedness.
Source: Nature Reviews Microbiology, https://www.nature.com/articles/s41579-025-01189-4
____
I am an Italian blogger, active since 2005 with main focus on emerging infectious diseases such as avian influenza, SARS, antibiotics resistance, and many other global Health issues. Other fields of interest are: climate change, global warming, geological and biological sciences. My activity consists mainly in collection and analysis of news, public services updates, confronting sources and making decision about what are the 'signals' of an impending crisis (an outbreak, for example). When a signal is detected, I follow traces during the entire course of an event. I started in 2005 my blog ''A TIME'S MEMORY'', now with more than 40,000 posts and 3 millions of web interactions. Subsequently I added an Italian Language blog, then discontinued because of very low traffic and interest. I contributed for seven years to a public forum (FluTrackers.com) in the midst of the Ebola epidemic in West Africa in 2014, I left the site to continue alone my data tracking job.
ABSTRACT
Long-distance migratory ducks play a critical role in the maintenance and dissemination of A(H5N1) viruses. Comparative pathogenicity studies were conducted on blue-winged teal (BWTE; Anas discors) using three distinct genotypes of A(H5N1) clade 2.3.4.4b viruses (A1, B1.3, and B4.1) isolated from wild ducks in Canada. Twenty-four hours post-intranasal infection of BWTE, contact turkeys and chickens were introduced into each of the groups to evaluate viral transmission. The levels of viral shedding in BWTE increased from 3 to 7 days post-infection (dpi) and continued at lower levels until 14 dpi. The A1 genotype virus (MALL/NS/22) was found to be the least pathogenic to BWTE compared to the reassortant genotypes, B4.1 (RBME/BC/22) and B1.3 (BWTE/MB/22). The B1.3 genotype was the most virulent to BWTE and caused 66.7% mortality compared to 12.5% mortality caused by the B4.1 genotype. The extent of transmission from infected BWTE to contact turkeys and chickens showed variations. Turkeys housed with BWTE infected with either virus died within 6 to 10 days post-contact (dpc). Conversely, the transmission and mortality among contact chickens varied. The highest mortality (3 out of 5) occurred in chickens exposed to BWTE infected with the B1.3 genotype. Whilst in the B4.1 genotype, 2 out of 6 chickens died, none of the chickens in the A1 genotype succumbed to infection. No shedding or seroconversion was noted in all surviving chickens. This research underscores variations in the pathogenic traits and transmissibility among the different genotypes of A(H5N1) clade 2.3.4.4b viruses. This finding is vital for understanding the role of migratory birds in the epidemiology of A(H5N1) and the need for continuous monitoring of these viruses.
Source: mSphere, https://journals.asm.org/doi/10.1128/msphere.00021-25
____
I am an Italian blogger, active since 2005 with main focus on emerging infectious diseases such as avian influenza, SARS, antibiotics resistance, and many other global Health issues. Other fields of interest are: climate change, global warming, geological and biological sciences. My activity consists mainly in collection and analysis of news, public services updates, confronting sources and making decision about what are the 'signals' of an impending crisis (an outbreak, for example). When a signal is detected, I follow traces during the entire course of an event. I started in 2005 my blog ''A TIME'S MEMORY'', now with more than 40,000 posts and 3 millions of web interactions. Subsequently I added an Italian Language blog, then discontinued because of very low traffic and interest. I contributed for seven years to a public forum (FluTrackers.com) in the midst of the Ebola epidemic in West Africa in 2014, I left the site to continue alone my data tracking job.
Abstract
Oropouche virus (OROV), historically endemic to the Amazon, had spread to nearly all Brazil states by 2024; EspĂrito Santo emerged as a transmission hotspot in the Atlantic Forest biome. We characterized the epidemiologic factors driving OROV spread in nonendemic southeast Brazil, analyzing environmental and agricultural conditions contributing to viral transmission. We tested samples from 29,080 suspected arbovirus-infected patients quantitative reverse transcription PCR for OROV and dengue, chikungunya, Zika, and Mayaro viruses. During March‒June 2024, the state had 339 confirmed OROV cases, demonstrating successful local transmission. Spatial analysis revealed that most cases clustered in municipalities with tropical climates and intensive cacao, robusta coffee, coconut, and pepper cultivation. Phylogenetic analysis identified the EspĂrito Santo OROV strains as part of the 2022–2024 Amazon lineage. The rapid spread of OROV outside the Amazon highlights its adaptive potential and public health threat, emphasizing the need for enhanced surveillance and targeted control measures.
Source: US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/eid/article/31/6/24-1946_article
____
I am an Italian blogger, active since 2005 with main focus on emerging infectious diseases such as avian influenza, SARS, antibiotics resistance, and many other global Health issues. Other fields of interest are: climate change, global warming, geological and biological sciences. My activity consists mainly in collection and analysis of news, public services updates, confronting sources and making decision about what are the 'signals' of an impending crisis (an outbreak, for example). When a signal is detected, I follow traces during the entire course of an event. I started in 2005 my blog ''A TIME'S MEMORY'', now with more than 40,000 posts and 3 millions of web interactions. Subsequently I added an Italian Language blog, then discontinued because of very low traffic and interest. I contributed for seven years to a public forum (FluTrackers.com) in the midst of the Ebola epidemic in West Africa in 2014, I left the site to continue alone my data tracking job.
Summary
Background
The JYNNEOS modified vaccinia virus Ankara vaccine is effective in preventing clade IIb mpox disease. However, vaccine effects on mpox severity are poorly understood. We aimed to assess associations between reported clinical characteristics and vaccination status among individuals with laboratory-confirmed mpox.
Methods
We conducted a case–control study using data collected from public health surveillance interviews of people with mpox in California. Eligible participants for primary analyses were men who were cisgender and participated in telephone interviews with complete responses recorded about anatomical sites where they had lesions. We estimated JYNNEOS vaccine effectiveness against progression to disease involving disseminated lesions via the adjusted odds ratio of vaccination, comparing participants who reported lesions disseminated across multiple anatomical regions (cases) with participants who reported lesions contained to a single anatomical region (controls). We used the same case–control framework to estimate vaccine effectiveness against progression to hospitalisation and prodromal symptoms.
Findings
Men who were cisgender represented 5763 (94·3%) of 6112 people reported to have laboratory-confrimed mpox in California from May 12, 2022, to Dec 31, 2023, among whom, 4609 (79·9%) met eligibility criteria and were included in primary analyses. Of 4609 participants, 1566 (34·0%) were classified as controls and 3043 (66·0%) were classified as cases. Among 3043 cases, 114 (3·7%) received pre-exposure vaccination and 214 (7·0%) received post-exposure vaccination only. Among 1566 controls, 285 (18·2%) received pre-exposure vaccination and 146 (9·3%) received post-exposure vaccination only. For pre-exposure vaccination, vaccine effectiveness against progression was 58·8% (95% CI 50·3–65·9); for post-exposure vaccination, vaccine effectiveness against progression was 15·9% (3·3–26·8). Pre-exposure vaccine effectiveness against progression was 66·6% (56·8–74·2) among people negative for HIV and 44·8% (27·5–58·0) for those with HIV. Pre-exposure vaccination was also associated with protection against progression to severe illness necessitating hospitalisation (85·4% [95% CI 54·3–95·3]), and with reduced odds for fever, chills, and lymphadenopathy.
Interpretation
Among men who were cisgender with mpox, pre-exposure vaccination with JYNNEOS was associated with less severe illness. Awareness of an attenuated disease phenotype involving localised lesions without accompanying prodromal symptoms is needed to ensure accurate diagnosis of mpox in previously vaccinated individuals.
Source: Lancet Infectious Diseases, https://www.thelancet.com/journals/laninf/article/PIIS1473-3099(25)00180-X/fulltext?rss=yes
____
I am an Italian blogger, active since 2005 with main focus on emerging infectious diseases such as avian influenza, SARS, antibiotics resistance, and many other global Health issues. Other fields of interest are: climate change, global warming, geological and biological sciences. My activity consists mainly in collection and analysis of news, public services updates, confronting sources and making decision about what are the 'signals' of an impending crisis (an outbreak, for example). When a signal is detected, I follow traces during the entire course of an event. I started in 2005 my blog ''A TIME'S MEMORY'', now with more than 40,000 posts and 3 millions of web interactions. Subsequently I added an Italian Language blog, then discontinued because of very low traffic and interest. I contributed for seven years to a public forum (FluTrackers.com) in the midst of the Ebola epidemic in West Africa in 2014, I left the site to continue alone my data tracking job.
Abstract
We characterized highly pathogenic avian influenza A(H5N1) clade 2.3.4.4b genotype D1.1 in wild birds and a human in British Columbia, Canada, during 2024. D1.1, the predominant genotype circulating in fall 2024, is a reassortment between Eurasian A3 lineage viruses, introduced to North America in 2022, and North American lineage viruses.
Source: US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/eid/article/31/6/24-1862_article
____
I am an Italian blogger, active since 2005 with main focus on emerging infectious diseases such as avian influenza, SARS, antibiotics resistance, and many other global Health issues. Other fields of interest are: climate change, global warming, geological and biological sciences. My activity consists mainly in collection and analysis of news, public services updates, confronting sources and making decision about what are the 'signals' of an impending crisis (an outbreak, for example). When a signal is detected, I follow traces during the entire course of an event. I started in 2005 my blog ''A TIME'S MEMORY'', now with more than 40,000 posts and 3 millions of web interactions. Subsequently I added an Italian Language blog, then discontinued because of very low traffic and interest. I contributed for seven years to a public forum (FluTrackers.com) in the midst of the Ebola epidemic in West Africa in 2014, I left the site to continue alone my data tracking job.
The Ministry of Health reports that a suspected case of Avian Influenza has been ruled out in a worker at a farm in the municipality of Montenegro (RS), where an outbreak of the disease was identified in birds.
On the afternoon of Tuesday (20/05), Fiocruz, the reference laboratory for this type of analysis, confirmed that the test for the disease was negative. At this time, there are no other suspected or under investigation cases in Brazil.
The Ministry of Health, together with the State Health Department of Rio Grande do Sul, is monitoring all people who may have been exposed to the virus through direct contact with infected birds to monitor their health status, start treatment immediately at the first symptoms and preventative surveillance of possible contacts.
There are no records of transmission of the disease from one person to another worldwide.
The risk of human infection is low and does not occur through the consumption of meat or eggs, but rather through direct contact with sick birds or contaminated environments. Therefore, the most effective preventive measure is to avoid contact with dead or sick birds.
The Ministry of Health is working with the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (Mapa) and the State Health Department of Rio Grande do Sul to provide all necessary support for actions related to the first case of bird flu on a commercial farm in the municipality of Montenegro (RS).
To ensure a rapid response to possible outbreaks, the Ministry of Health launched, in December 2024, the National Contingency Plan for the Health Sector for Avian Influenza, which guides the ministry's actions, including integrated surveillance, laboratory diagnosis, assistance and health communication.
In this sense, Brazil is working on different fronts to prepare for a possible risk of cases in humans. The Ministry of Health, through the SUS , has the capacity to perform laboratory tests, maintains a stock of the medicine to treat the different types of influenza (Oseltamivir) and, if necessary, has the technology to produce vaccines.
Understand how the suspected case was ruled out
The investigation into the suspected case began on May 18, when the worker at the Montenegro (RS) farm, who was already being monitored by state surveillance and the Ministry of Health, showed the first symptoms. Treatment began immediately and the sample was sent to Fiocruz, in Rio de Janeiro.
The PCR test was initially performed, which identifies specific genetic material from the influenza virus – if positive, other tests are performed to identify the type of influenza, including avian flu. In the case in question, the initial test was negative for any type of influenza.
For those who work with wild animals, it is recommended to use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) after identifying infected animals or those with symptoms suggestive of avian influenza, such as gloves, N95 mask or higher and eye protection, in addition to care such as hand hygiene, avoiding touching eyes, mouth and nose and changing clothes after contact with infected animals.
Ministry of Health
Source: Ministry of Health, https://www.gov.br/saude/pt-br/assuntos/noticias/2025/maio/ministerio-da-saude-descarta-caso-de-gripe-aviaria-em-um-trabalhador-do-rio-grande-do-sul
____
I am an Italian blogger, active since 2005 with main focus on emerging infectious diseases such as avian influenza, SARS, antibiotics resistance, and many other global Health issues. Other fields of interest are: climate change, global warming, geological and biological sciences. My activity consists mainly in collection and analysis of news, public services updates, confronting sources and making decision about what are the 'signals' of an impending crisis (an outbreak, for example). When a signal is detected, I follow traces during the entire course of an event. I started in 2005 my blog ''A TIME'S MEMORY'', now with more than 40,000 posts and 3 millions of web interactions. Subsequently I added an Italian Language blog, then discontinued because of very low traffic and interest. I contributed for seven years to a public forum (FluTrackers.com) in the midst of the Ebola epidemic in West Africa in 2014, I left the site to continue alone my data tracking job.
Abstract
Since the first emergence of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 viruses in dairy cattle, the virus has continued to spread, reaching at least 17 states and at least 950 dairy herds in the United States. Subsequently, spillovers of the virus from dairy cattle to humans have been reported. Pigs are an important reservoir in influenza ecology because they serve as a mixing vessel in which novel reassortant viruses with pandemic potential can be generated. Here, we show that oro-respiratory infection of pigs resulted in productive replication of a bovine-derived HPAI H5N1 B3.13 virus. Infectious virus was mainly identified in the lower respiratory tract of principal infected pigs, and sero-conversion was observed in most of the principal pigs at later time points, suggesting limited replication of the bovine-derived HPAI H5N1 B3.13 virus in pigs. In one animal, we detected the emergence of a mutation in hemagglutinin (HA) previously associated with increased affinity for “mammalian-type” α2,6-linked sialic acid receptors, but this mutation did not reach majority consensus levels. Sentinel contact pigs remained sero-negative throughout the study, indicating lack of transmission. These results support that pigs are susceptible to a bovine-derived HPAI H5N1 B3.13 virus, but this virus did not replicate as robustly in pigs as mink-derived HPAI H5N1 and swine-adapted influenza viruses.
Source: Emerging Microbes and Infections, https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/22221751.2025.2509742
____
I am an Italian blogger, active since 2005 with main focus on emerging infectious diseases such as avian influenza, SARS, antibiotics resistance, and many other global Health issues. Other fields of interest are: climate change, global warming, geological and biological sciences. My activity consists mainly in collection and analysis of news, public services updates, confronting sources and making decision about what are the 'signals' of an impending crisis (an outbreak, for example). When a signal is detected, I follow traces during the entire course of an event. I started in 2005 my blog ''A TIME'S MEMORY'', now with more than 40,000 posts and 3 millions of web interactions. Subsequently I added an Italian Language blog, then discontinued because of very low traffic and interest. I contributed for seven years to a public forum (FluTrackers.com) in the midst of the Ebola epidemic in West Africa in 2014, I left the site to continue alone my data tracking job.
On the 19th of May, an official veterinary doctor was called to the farm due to suspected influenza, as there was an increase in mortality within the animals. On the same day, samples were taken and sent to the Bulgarian National Laboratory for Avian Influenza, where, on the 20th of May, it was confirmed that the farm was affected by a highly pathogenic avian influenza virus.
Source: WOAH, https://wahis.woah.org/#/in-review/6490
____
I am an Italian blogger, active since 2005 with main focus on emerging infectious diseases such as avian influenza, SARS, antibiotics resistance, and many other global Health issues. Other fields of interest are: climate change, global warming, geological and biological sciences. My activity consists mainly in collection and analysis of news, public services updates, confronting sources and making decision about what are the 'signals' of an impending crisis (an outbreak, for example). When a signal is detected, I follow traces during the entire course of an event. I started in 2005 my blog ''A TIME'S MEMORY'', now with more than 40,000 posts and 3 millions of web interactions. Subsequently I added an Italian Language blog, then discontinued because of very low traffic and interest. I contributed for seven years to a public forum (FluTrackers.com) in the midst of the Ebola epidemic in West Africa in 2014, I left the site to continue alone my data tracking job.
ABSTRACT
Influenza infection and vaccination impart strain-specific immunity that protects against neither seasonal antigenic variants nor the next pandemic. However, antibodies directed to conserved sites can confer broad protection. Here, we identify and characterize a class of human antibodies that engage a previously undescribed, conserved epitope on the influenza hemagglutinin (HA) protein. Prototype antibody S8V1-157 binds at the normally occluded interface between the HA head and stem. Antibodies to this HA head–stem interface epitope are non-neutralizing in vitro but protect against lethal influenza infection in mice. These antibodies bind to most influenza A subtypes and seasonal human variants, and are present at low frequencies in the memory B cell populations of multiple human donors. Vaccines designed to elicit these antibodies might contribute to “universal” influenza immunity.
IMPORTANCE
Antibodies to the influenza virus hemagglutinin (HA) protein confer the strongest protection against infection. Human antibodies elicited by infection and/or vaccination fail to protect against antigenically novel animal, pandemic, or human seasonal viruses. Improved vaccines are needed. We identify a novel class of antibodies that bind most divergent HA subtypes and all seasonal human HA antigenic variants tested. These antibodies confer protection from lethal influenza challenge in animal models. The corresponding epitope on the HA head is occluded by its interaction with the stem and is inaccessible in the well-resolved prefusion state. The immunogenicity of this head–stem interface indicates that poorly understood conformations of HA presenting widely conserved surfaces are explored in biochemical, cell-based, and in vivo assays. Head–stem interface antibodies warrant further investigation as an avenue to improve influenza vaccines and therapeutics.
Source: mBio, https://journals.asm.org/doi/10.1128/mbio.00892-25
____
I am an Italian blogger, active since 2005 with main focus on emerging infectious diseases such as avian influenza, SARS, antibiotics resistance, and many other global Health issues. Other fields of interest are: climate change, global warming, geological and biological sciences. My activity consists mainly in collection and analysis of news, public services updates, confronting sources and making decision about what are the 'signals' of an impending crisis (an outbreak, for example). When a signal is detected, I follow traces during the entire course of an event. I started in 2005 my blog ''A TIME'S MEMORY'', now with more than 40,000 posts and 3 millions of web interactions. Subsequently I added an Italian Language blog, then discontinued because of very low traffic and interest. I contributed for seven years to a public forum (FluTrackers.com) in the midst of the Ebola epidemic in West Africa in 2014, I left the site to continue alone my data tracking job.
Abstract
Avian influenza viruses continue to challenge poultry and human health; therefore, careful surveillance and evaluation of emerging viruses are important for animal disease control and human influenza pandemic preparedness. In this study, we detected a series of H3N3 subtype avian influenza viruses in chickens, pigeons, and ducks during our routine surveillance and diagnosis between September 2022 and May 2023. We performed extensive analyses to fully understand the origins of these viruses and their risk to animals and humans. We found that the viruses were complex reassortants; the viruses from chickens and pigeons carry genes mainly derived from H3N8 viruses and H10N3 viruses, whereas the two duck viruses were reassortants of duck and wild bird viruses. The chicken and pigeon, but not duck, viruses replicated in multiple organs of chickens and were shed for up to 13 days, but none caused disease or death. Six of the viruses tested all bound to both avian- and human-type receptors. Seventeen viruses were tested in mice and most replicated efficiently but were not lethal. Six viruses were tested in guinea pigs, and four of them transmitted efficiently via respiratory droplets. Our study thus identified novel H3N3 avian influenza viruses and revealed their zoonotic potential, thereby emphasizing the importance of careful monitoring and control of H3 viruses in animals.
Source: Emerging Microbes and Infections, https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/22221751.2025.2509748#
____
I am an Italian blogger, active since 2005 with main focus on emerging infectious diseases such as avian influenza, SARS, antibiotics resistance, and many other global Health issues. Other fields of interest are: climate change, global warming, geological and biological sciences. My activity consists mainly in collection and analysis of news, public services updates, confronting sources and making decision about what are the 'signals' of an impending crisis (an outbreak, for example). When a signal is detected, I follow traces during the entire course of an event. I started in 2005 my blog ''A TIME'S MEMORY'', now with more than 40,000 posts and 3 millions of web interactions. Subsequently I added an Italian Language blog, then discontinued because of very low traffic and interest. I contributed for seven years to a public forum (FluTrackers.com) in the midst of the Ebola epidemic in West Africa in 2014, I left the site to continue alone my data tracking job.
Abstract
H5Nx clade 2.3.4.4b high-pathogenicity avian influenza viruses (HPAIVs) have decimated wild bird and poultry populations globally since the autumn of 2020. In the United Kingdom (UK) and in continental Europe, the H5N8 subtype predominated during the first epizootic wave of 2020/21, with few detections of H5N1. However, during the second (2021/22) and third (2022/23) epizootic waves, H5N1 was the dominant subtype. The rapid shift in dominance from H5N8 to H5N1 was likely driven by a combination of virological, immunological, and/or host-related factors. In this study, we compared viral fitness and immunological responses in ducks, a key reservoir species, using dominant genotypes of H5N1 (genotype AB) and H5N8 (genotype A) from the second wave. While viral shedding dynamics were similar for both viruses, H5N8 was more pathogenic. Antigenic analysis of post-infection duck sera revealed that the haemagglutinin (HA) protein was antigenically similar across clade 2.3.4.4b H5 HPAIVs, but neuraminidase (NA) proteins displayed different patterns of cross-reactivity. We also modelled a scenario where ducks were pre-exposed to H5N1 (genotype C) or H5N8 (genotype A) from the first wave and subsequently challenged with either homologous or heterologous subtypes from the second wave (genotype AB or A). Despite the absence of seroconversion, pre-exposure to different subtypes resulted in varying clinical outcomes following challenge. These findings indicate that both viral and immunological factors likely played significant roles in the emergence and spread of H5Nx HPAIVs in wild bird populations.
Source: BioRxIV, https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.1101/2025.04.23.650244v2
____
I am an Italian blogger, active since 2005 with main focus on emerging infectious diseases such as avian influenza, SARS, antibiotics resistance, and many other global Health issues. Other fields of interest are: climate change, global warming, geological and biological sciences. My activity consists mainly in collection and analysis of news, public services updates, confronting sources and making decision about what are the 'signals' of an impending crisis (an outbreak, for example). When a signal is detected, I follow traces during the entire course of an event. I started in 2005 my blog ''A TIME'S MEMORY'', now with more than 40,000 posts and 3 millions of web interactions. Subsequently I added an Italian Language blog, then discontinued because of very low traffic and interest. I contributed for seven years to a public forum (FluTrackers.com) in the midst of the Ebola epidemic in West Africa in 2014, I left the site to continue alone my data tracking job.
Abstract
We conducted a multicenter, observational, 12-month follow-up study to identify the extended health burden of severe COVID-19 pneumonia by characterizing long-term sequelae of acute infection in participants previously enrolled in clinical trials for severe COVID-19 pneumonia requiring hospitalization. Overall, 134 (77.5%) of 173 participants completed the study. At 12 months, 51 (29.5%) participants reported cough, 60 (34.7%) reported dyspnea, 56 (32.4%) had residual lung texture abnormalities on high-resolution computed tomography scans, 26 (15.0%) had impaired forced vital capacity, 52 (30.1%) had cognitive impairment, and 77 (44.5%) reported fatigue. Disease severity during acute infection and age were associated with persistent lung abnormalities; history of hypertension was associated with higher prevalence of fatigue and more frequent dyspnea and cough; and age and obesity were associated with long-term cognitive impairment. Our findings underscore the long-term health burden of severe COVID-19 pneumonia, reinforcing the importance of regular monitoring in older persons and those with underlying illnesses.
Source: US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/eid/article/31/6/24-1097_article
____
I am an Italian blogger, active since 2005 with main focus on emerging infectious diseases such as avian influenza, SARS, antibiotics resistance, and many other global Health issues. Other fields of interest are: climate change, global warming, geological and biological sciences. My activity consists mainly in collection and analysis of news, public services updates, confronting sources and making decision about what are the 'signals' of an impending crisis (an outbreak, for example). When a signal is detected, I follow traces during the entire course of an event. I started in 2005 my blog ''A TIME'S MEMORY'', now with more than 40,000 posts and 3 millions of web interactions. Subsequently I added an Italian Language blog, then discontinued because of very low traffic and interest. I contributed for seven years to a public forum (FluTrackers.com) in the midst of the Ebola epidemic in West Africa in 2014, I left the site to continue alone my data tracking job.