History of Mass Transportation: The Snowdon Mountain Railway Steam Locomotive (1922)

 

Von A.M.Hurrell - Photographer - A.M.Hurrell, CC BY 2.5, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=423388

Source: Wikipedia, https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Schweizerische_Lokomotiv-_und_Maschinenfabrik

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#Coronavirus Disease Research #References (by AMEDEO, October 4 '25)

 

Int J Infect Dis

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   A Novel Balamuthia Lineage Causing Fatal Granulomatous Amoebic Encephalitis in an Immunocompetent Infant.
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   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   

   
   J Med Virol

2. PLICANTI E, Deiana A, Nottoli S, Lottini G, et al
   A Pyrido-Quinoxaline Derivative That Downregulates Reticulon 3 Protein Exhibits Potent Antiviral Activity Against Zika Virus.
   J Med Virol. 2025;97:e70605.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   

   
   J Virol

3. TSUJINO S, Tsuda M, Nao N, Okumura K, et al
   Evolution of BA.2.86 to JN.1 reveals that functional changes in non-structural viral proteins are required for fitness of SARS-CoV-2.
   J Virol. 2025 Sep 23:e0090825. doi: 10.1128/jvi.00908.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   
4. HAMMER E, Flynn C, Rossler J, Erder J, et al
   Prediction of COVID-19 disease progression by multiparametric analysis of circulating extracellular vesicles with flow cytometry.
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   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   

   
   JAMA

5. ANDERER S
   Nasal Spray May Help Prevent COVID-19 Infection.
   JAMA. 2025 Sep 19. doi: 10.1001/jama.2025.13883.
   PubMed        
   
   

   
   Nature

6. LENHARO M, Ledford H
   Hotly anticipated US vaccine meeting ends with confusion - and a few decisions.
   Nature. 2025 Sep 20. doi: 10.1038/d41586-025-03054.
   PubMed        
   
   

   
   Radiologia (Engl Ed)

7. SORIANO AGUADERO I, Ezponda Casajus A, Paternain Nuin A, Vidorreta M, et al
   Prognostic value of the extent of affected lung parenchyma in COVID-19 pneumonia patients: Visual estimation versus automatic quantification by artificial intelligence.
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   PubMed         Abstract available
   

#Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses Research #References (by AMEDEO, October 4 '25)

 

Am J Med

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   Extended Thromboprophylaxis in Patients Hospitalized with COVID-19 at Time of Discharge is Not Associated with Improvement in Quality of Life.
   Am J Med. 2025;138:1464-1468.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   

   
   Biochem Biophys Res Commun

2. ZHANG L, Li Y, Ye K, Wang P, et al
   Article I. metformin affects H1N1-induced apoptosis in lung epithelial cells by the miR-130a-5p-regulated PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.
   Biochem Biophys Res Commun. 2025;782:152526.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   

   
   J Gen Virol

3. HA Y, Lee YH, Jo HS, Kwon TW, et al
   Susceptibility of different mouse strains to SARS-CoV-2 spike receptor-binding domain protein-induced lung inflammation: a comparative study.
   J Gen Virol. 2025;106.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   

   
   J Infect Dis

4. GAILLET A, Layese R, Fourati S, Celante H, et al
   Clinical Phenotypes and Outcomes Associated With Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection in Critically Ill Patients: A Retrospective Multicenter Cohort Study in Greater Paris Area Hospitals, 2017-2023.
   J Infect Dis. 2025;232:679-690.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   
5. LI K, Bont LJ, Weinberger DM, Pitzer VE, et al
   Relating In Vivo Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection Kinetics to Host Infectiousness in Different Age Groups.
   J Infect Dis. 2025;232:691-699.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   
6. LI K, Pitzer VE, Weinberger DM
   Exploring RSV Transmission Patterns in Different Age Groups in the United States.
   J Infect Dis. 2025;232:700-708.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   
7. DOSS CR, Osborn MJ, Stark S, Rhein J, et al
   Wastewater Measures of SARS-CoV-2 Accurately Predict Frequency of Symptomatic Infections in the Community.
   J Infect Dis. 2025;232:e459-e465.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   
8. HAMILTON F, Butler-Laporte G, Davey Smith G
   Mendelian Randomization and Infection: Pitfalls and Promises.
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   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   
9. WANG C, Yuan HY, Lau EHY, Cowling BJ, et al
   Impact of Population Immunity and Public Health Measures on the Transmission of Omicron Subvariants BA.2 and BA.5 in Hong Kong.
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10. KNOX JJ, Lee I, Blumberg EA, Rosenfeld AM, et al
    B-Cell Subset Representation Predicts SARS-CoV-2 Vaccine Response in Solid Organ Transplant Recipients.
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11. LIM SY, Lee J, Kwon JS, Chang E, et al
    Disparate kinetics of viable virus shedding in immunocompromised patients: SARS-CoV-2 versus influenza virus - a prospective real-world cohort study.
    J Infect Dis. 2025 Sep 15:jiaf479. doi: 10.1093.
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12. ALEMNJI G, Sangthong A, Espy N, Bartee M, et al
    PEPFAR Laboratory Implementation Strategy as a Component of PEPFAR's 5-Year Strategy.
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13. OKOYE M, Okoi C, Espy N, Mba N, et al
    Leveraging PEPFAR- and Global Fund-Supported Laboratory Network for Integrated Disease Testing: Lessons From Integrated HIV, Tuberculosis, and COVID-19 Testing in Nigeria.
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    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    

    
    J Virol

14. MA Y, Ye C, Khalil AM, Mahmoud SH, et al
    A luminescent attenuated SARS-CoV-2 for the identification and validation of drug-resistant mutants.
    J Virol. 2025 Aug 7:e0082125. doi: 10.1128/jvi.00821.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
15. KARIMI A, Lieber CM, Sakamoto K, Plemper RK, et al
    SARS-CoV-2 causes chronic lung inflammation and impaired respiratory capacity in aged Roborovski dwarf hamsters.
    J Virol. 2025 Aug 11:e0075525. doi: 10.1128/jvi.00755.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
16. BATY JJ, Drozdick AK, Pfeiffer JK
    Pseudomonas aeruginosa rhamnolipids stabilize human rhinovirus 14 virions.
    J Virol. 2025;99:e0093125.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
17. HU J, Zheng H, Ran W, Wang X, et al
    Mucosal vaccination with long-form TSLP induces migratory cDC1-mediated adaptive immunity against SARS-CoV-2 infection.
    J Virol. 2025 Aug 19:e0123125. doi: 10.1128/jvi.01231.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
18. EL ZOWALATY ME, Taylor LJ, Son Y, Lee H, et al
    Discovery, phylogenetic, and comparative genomic analysis of novel avian gammacoronaviruses identified in feral pigeons (Columba livia domestica).
    J Virol. 2025 Aug 20:e0111225. doi: 10.1128/jvi.01112.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
19. ZHANG H, Deng X, Dai R, Fu J, et al
    Inadequate immune response to inactivated COVID-19 vaccine among older people living with HIV: a prospective cohort study.
    J Virol. 2025 Aug 21:e0068825. doi: 10.1128/jvi.00688.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
20. CHI X, Liang X, Vaddadi K, Zhang X, et al
    SARS-CoV-2 Nsp15 endoribonuclease subverts host defenses to enhance viral fitness in lung cells.
    J Virol. 2025 Aug 21:e0117525. doi: 10.1128/jvi.01175.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
21. HU Z, Tian S, Zhou Y, Wang Y, et al
    Nanoparticle vaccine based on the pre-fusion F glycoprotein of respiratory syncytial virus elicits robust protective immune responses.
    J Virol. 2025 Aug 26:e0090325. doi: 10.1128/jvi.00903.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
22. VERMA A, Kamboj H, Kumar G, Khandelwal N, et al
    TGF-beta inhibitor SB431542 suppresses SARS-CoV-2 replication through multistep inhibition.
    J Virol. 2025 Aug 29:e0052925. doi: 10.1128/jvi.00529.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
23. GRACIE NP, Aggarwal A, Luo R, Spicer M, et al
    An RGD motif on SARS-CoV-2 Spike induces TGF-beta signaling and downregulates interferon.
    J Virol. 2025 Sep 4:e0043525. doi: 10.1128/jvi.00435.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
24. JANZEN GM, Inderski BT, Chang J, Arendsee ZW, et al
    Sources and sinks of influenza A virus genomic diversity in swine from 2009 to 2022 in the United States.
    J Virol. 2025;99:e0054125.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
25. ZHU B, Fung K, Feng HH, Beatty JA, et al
    The hemagglutinin proteins of clades 1 and 2.3.4.4b H5N1 highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses exhibit comparable attachment patterns to avian and mammalian tissues.
    J Virol. 2025 Sep 23:e0097625. doi: 10.1128/jvi.00976.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    

    
    PLoS Comput Biol

26. LIM D, Ko KT, Hong H, Lee H, et al
    A history-dependent approach for accurate initial condition estimation in epidemic models.
    PLoS Comput Biol. 2025;21:e1013438.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
27. HODGSON D, Hay J, Jarju S, Jobe D, et al
    serojump: A Bayesian tool for inferring infection timing and antibody kinetics from longitudinal serological data.
    PLoS Comput Biol. 2025;21:e1013467.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    

    
    PLoS Med

28. PREISS A, Bhatia A, Aragon LV, Baratta JM, et al
    Effect of Paxlovid treatment during acute COVID-19 on Long COVID onset: An EHR-based target trial emulation from the N3C and RECOVER consortia.
    PLoS Med. 2025;22:e1004711.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    

    
    PLoS One

29. SALDIVAR L, Rajabi T, Li W, Lopa S, et al
    Recurrent venous thromboembolism and clot distribution in COVID-19 infection: A review by variant type.
    PLoS One. 2025;20:e0331283.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
30. SAW HW, Kapteyn A
    Personality traits, panel tenure, survey topic, and context as predictors of survey nonresponse patterns in high-frequency online longitudinal surveys.
    PLoS One. 2025;20:e0332902.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
31. BASHORUN AO, Kotei L, Jallow AF, Jawla O, et al
    Human papillomavirus, sexually transmitted infections, and antimicrobial resistance in West Africa: Estimating population burden and understanding exposures to accelerate vaccine impact and drive new interventions: The PHASE survey protocol.
    PLoS One. 2025;20:e0332842.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
32. SHIMIZU IS, Freire SF, Sousa MLA, Ferreira JC, et al
    Knowledge, attitudes, and practice about protective ventilation among physical therapists.
    PLoS One. 2025;20:e0331949.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
33. LU W, Liu Q, Li H
    Confidence, animal spirits, and the macroeconomy in China: Based on mixed-frequency data models.
    PLoS One. 2025;20:e0332909.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
34. WANG J, Liu Y, Li N, Zhu Y, et al
    Hand hygiene after the COVID-19 pandemic: Is it still at a high level?
    PLoS One. 2025;20:e0332634.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
35. EDU-QUANSAH DA, Bandoh DA, Edu-Quansah EP, Appiah AB, et al
    Evaluation of the performance of the Influenza-like Illness (ILI) surveillance system in the Okai Koi North District, Greater Accra Region, 2022.
    PLoS One. 2025;20:e0332334.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
36. BOEVER C, Zech E, Arcand L, Verdon C, et al
    What does it mean to have experienced the death of a relative in a context of social and funeral restrictions? Lessons from the pandemic for bereavement research and clinical practice.
    PLoS One. 2025;20:e0331946.
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37. SWANSON B, Bishop-Royse J, Keshavarzian A, Balk R, et al
    Examination of unique volatile organic compound signatures in nasopharyngeal test swab viral transport media using an electronic nose.
    PLoS One. 2025;20:e0332399.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
38. REITERMAN M, Chin AI, Bang H
    Adverse outcomes post-COVID-19 hospitalization among ESRD patients: A retrospective cohort study in 5 California university medical centers.
    PLoS One. 2025;20:e0332203.
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39. PAYNE LA, Edelman A, Darney BG, Benhar E, et al
    Brief report: Older adolescents and young adults may be at higher risk for changes to menstrual cycle length with COVID-19 vaccination.
    PLoS One. 2025;20:e0331346.
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40. POLISHCHUK V, Kostinov capital EM, Cyrillic, Ryzhov capital A, Cyrillic, Dagil Y, et al
    Immunogenicity of one dose and two doses of adjuvanted influenza vaccine in lung transplant candidates.
    PLoS One. 2025;20:e0332346.
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41. PEREZ-MORALES AM, Jimenez-Juarez RN, Morales-Rios OM, Reyes-Lopez A, et al
    Antibacterial consumption before, during, and after the COVID-19 pandemic in a tertiary care pediatric hospital in Mexico.
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42. KAYA MG, Karaman K
    Clinical parameters associated with mortality in elderly patients with COVID-19.
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43. MONGE M, Hurtado R, Infante J
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44. WANG Y, Gao YD, Jiang CH, Xi Y, et al
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    PLoS One. 2025;20:e0332213.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    

    
    Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A

45. YOSHIDA A, Uekusa Y, Suzuki T, Bauer M, et al
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    Vaccine

46. SCHERM MJ, Holzl R, Gonzalez-Dominguez I, Hjorth R, et al
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    Virus Res

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54. CHAVOIX C, Massin P, Briand FX, Louboutin K, et al
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#Chikungunya virus disease - #Global #situation (#WHO D.O.N., Summary, Oct. 3 '25)

 

Situation at a glance

In 2025, a resurgence of chikungunya virus (CHIKV) disease was noted in a number of countries, including some that had not reported substantial case numbers in recent years. 

Between 1 January and 30 September 2025, a total of 445 271 suspected and confirmed CHIKV disease cases and 155 deaths were reported globally from 40 countries, including autochthonous and travel imported cases. 

Some WHO Regions are experiencing significant increases in case numbers compared to 2024, although others are currently reporting lower case numbers. 

This uneven distribution of cases across regions makes it challenging to characterize the situation as a global rise, however, given the ongoing outbreaks reported globally in 2025, the potential for further spread remains significant. 

CHIKV disease can be introduced into new areas by infected travelers and local transmission may be established if there is the presence of Aedes mosquito and a susceptible population. 

The risk is heightened by limited population immunity in previously unaffected areas, favorable environmental conditions for vector breeding, gaps in surveillance and diagnostic capacity, and increased human mobility and trade. 

Strengthening disease surveillance, enhancing vector surveillance and control, and improving public health preparedness are essential to mitigate the risk of further transmission. 

Prior to 2025, current or previous autochthonous transmission of CHIKV has been reported from 119 countries and territories. 

A total of 27 countries and territories across six WHO regions have established competent populations of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes but have not yet reported autochthonous CHIKV transmission. 

Additional countries have established populations of Aedes albopictus mosquitoes, which can also transmit CHIKV, and in which transmission efficiency is enhanced for CHIKV lineages with the E1 226V mutation. 

The presence of these vectors poses a continuous threat of chikungunya introduction and spread in previously unaffected areas. 

Increased CHIKV transmission is driven by multiple factors that include: 

- the expanded geographic distribution of Aedes mosquitoes related to transportation in conveyances and 

- climate change, 

- unplanned urbanization, 

- poor water management, and 

- weakened vector surveillance and control. 

CHIKV disease typically causes high population attack rates. In smaller settings such as islands, the transmission dynamics can be temporarily interrupted once a proportion of the population becomes infected and subsequently immune. 

In larger populations however, where enough individuals remain immunologically susceptible, transmission can persist over time, leading to sustained outbreaks. 

These outbreaks often place a significant burden on healthcare systems due to the number of affected individuals. 

Countries differ in their ability to detect and report chikungunya and other vector-borne diseases, with many outbreaks identified only retrospectively, hindering effective public health responses. 

Early detection of cases, particularly in persons at risk for severe CHIKV disease, and timely access to appropriate medical care are essential for minimizing clinical complications and reducing mortality. 

The variation in distribution of cases across regions highlights the importance of continued investment in surveillance, preparedness, and response capacities to address evolving regional dynamics. 

WHO continues to call on all countries to strengthen their healthcare and laboratory systems to enable rapid detection, timely reporting, and effective response to chikungunya outbreaks.

(...)

Source: World Health Organization, https://www.who.int/emergencies/disease-outbreak-news/item/2025-DON581

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#Italy, Integrated #WNV & #USUV #Surveillance - Weekly Bulletin No. 12, 2 October 2025: 38 new confirmed cases (Summary)

 

{Summary}

-- During current epidemiological week (from 25 September to 1rst October 2025), 38 new confirmed human infection with West Nile Virus have been reported. 

-- Since the beginning of the epidemic season, 718 confirmed cases have been recorded in Italy (they were 680 in the last bulletin), of these: 

- 341 were West Nile Neuroinvasive Disease (WNND): 15 in Piedmont, 51 Lombardy, 30 Veneto, 4 Friuli-Venezia Giulia, 1 Liguria, 27 Emilia-Romagna, 11 Tuscany, 1 Marche, 84 Latium, 2 Molise, 79 Campania, 2 Apulia, 2 Basilicata, 5 Calabria, 2 Sicily, 25 Sardinia, 

- 57 were asymptomatic cases in blood donors, 

- 309 were West Nile Fever cases (1 imported from Kenya, 1 Egypt, and one Maldives), 

- 4 asymptomatic cases, 

- 7 unspecified cases. 

-- Among confirmed cases, there have been 49 fatalities: 7 in Piedmont, 5 Lombardy, 2 Emilia-Romagna, 18 Latium, 14 Campania, 2 Calabria, 1 Sardinia. 

- The Case-Fatality Rate in WNND cases was 14.4% (it was 20% in 2018 and 14% in 2024. 

-- This season 10 confirmed Usutu virus human infections have been recorded: 2 in Piedmont, 3 Lombardy, 2 Veneto, 3 Latium.

(...)

Source: High Institute of Health, https://www.epicentro.iss.it/westnile/bollettino/Bollettino_WND_2025_12.pdf

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Fatal #Human #H3N8 #Influenza Virus has a Moderate #Pandemic #Risk

 

Abstract

In China, low pathogenic avian influenza (LPAI) H3N8 virus is widespread among chickens and has recently caused three zoonotic infections, with the last one in 2023 being fatal. Here we evaluated the relative pandemic risk of this 2023 zoonotic H3N8 influenza virus, utilizing our previously published decision tree. Serological analysis indicated that a large proportion of the human population does not have any cross-neutralizing antibodies against this H3N8 strain. LPAI H3N8 displayed a dual affinity for a2-3 and a2-6 sialic acids and replicated efficiently in human bronchial epithelial cells. Furthermore, we observed H3N8 transmission via direct contact but not aerosols to ferrets with pre-existing H3N2 immunity. Although pre-existing H3N2 immunity resulted in a shortened disease course in ferrets, it did not reduce disease severity or replication in the respiratory tract. This study suggests that this zoonotic H3N8 strain has moderate pandemic potential and emphasizes the continued need for avian influenza surveillance.

Competing Interest Statement

The authors have declared no competing interest.

Source: BioRxIV, https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.1101/2025.10.02.679960v1

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Impact of naturally occurring #hemagglutinin substitutions on antigenicity and fitness of #influenza #H5N1 virus

 

Abstract

In 2024, a human infection with clade 2.3.4.4b highly pathogenic avian influenza A(H5N1) virus was identified in the United States in an individual with no known exposure. Genetic analysis revealed two hemagglutinin (HA) substitutions, P136S and A156T, which may alter viral antigenicity. Virus isolation was unsuccessful, preventing timely serologic analysis. To overcome this limitation, we generated recombinant viruses by reverse genetics and characterized the effects of the substitutions on antigenicity, receptor binding, and replicative fitness. The A156T substitution introduced a potential N-linked glycosylation site, resulting in altered antigenicity and reduced replication in primary human nasal epithelial cells and ferrets. Importantly, the A(H5N1) candidate vaccine virus (CVV) IDCDC-RG80A, which possesses HA-T156, remained antigenically effective against viruses with and without these substitutions. These findings highlight the importance of sequencing, reverse-genetics approaches, and antigenically similar CVVs such as IDCDC-RG80A, for pandemic preparedness against evolving clade 2.3.4.4b A(H5N1) viruses.

Source: npj Viruses, https://www.nature.com/articles/s44298-025-00154-5

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Opportunity Drives #Spillover: Serological #Surveillance across #Carnivores, #Omnivores and #Herbivores in an #HPAIV #H5 Hotspot in North-East #Germany, 2023-2025

 

Abstract

In North-East Germany's offshore islands and mainland coast, wild ruminants, boar, and carnivores were tested for H5-HPAI antibodies. Wild ruminants were seronegative; 3.5% of boar and 12.5-21.9% of carnivores were seropositive, evidencing frequent spillover. Because such events may accelerate mammalian - and ultimately human - adaptation, sustained One-Health monitoring is essential.

Competing Interest Statement

The authors have declared no competing interest.

Funder Information Declared

European Union, 101084171 "KAPPA-FLU"

Helmholtz Institute for One Health, WiMoPOH

Source: BioRxIV, https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.1101/2025.09.30.678011v1

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

 

A laying hens farm in Nordrhein-Westfalen Region.

Source: WOAH, https://wahis.woah.org/#/in-review/6832

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#Ebola Virus Disease in the #DRC - External #Situation #Report 03 - September 28 '25 (#WHO, summary)

 

Date of issue: 30 September 2025

Data as reported by: 28 September 2025

{Summary}

The Ebola virus disease outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo continues, with signs of a notable decline in transmission. 

Since our last update (Situation Report #2), a total of seven new cases have been reported, comprising six confirmed and one probable cases (retrospectively validated). 

The new cases were detected across three health areas within Bulape Health Zone, namely, Bulape (n=4), Mpianga (n=2), and Dikolo (n=1). 

During the same reporting period, seven deaths occurred among newly identified and previously hospitalized cases. The reported deaths were distributed across Dikolo (n=3), Bulape (n=2), Mpianga (n=1), and Bulape Communitaire (n=1) health areas.

As of 28 September 2025, a total of 64 cases (53 confirmed and 11 probable), including 42 deaths (31 confirmed, 11 probable), have been reported from Bulape Health Zone, Kasai Province, Democratic Republic of the Congo. 

The overall case fatality ratio (CFR) is 65.6%. 

Cumulatively, five confirmed cases have been reported among healthcare workers, including three deaths. 

The outbreak remains confined to six affected health areas out of the 21 that make up Bulape Health Zone.

Cases to date range in age from 0 (newborn) to 65 years. 

Since the onset of the outbreak, the majority of cases have been reported among females (57.8%, n=37), children aged 0–9 years (25.0%, n=16), and individuals aged 20–29 years (23.4%, n=15). 

Mortality has also been concentrated among these groups, with females accounting for over half of the reported deaths (57.1%, n=24) and children under 10 years representing 31.0% of deaths (n=13). 

The CFR is slightly higher among males (66.7%) compared to females (64.9%). 

In the past two weeks, fewer cases (n = 2) have been reported among children (0-9 years old). 

A decreasing CFR trend has been observed over time with improvement in surveillance (early case detection and isolation) and the quality of case management (prompt and high-quality treatment).

As of 28 September 2025, a total of 1 787 contacts were under follow-up, with 1 735 (97.1%) seen in the last 24 hours. 

Nine (9) cases were successfully treated and discharged following recovery while 13 are currently in treatment as of 28 September 2025.

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Source: ReliefWeb, https://reliefweb.int/attachments/de19e29d-1f89-4ad2-a086-e9afcdce91cc/DRC_EVD_External_Sitrep_28Sept2025.pdf

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#LongCOVID associated with #SARS-CoV-2 #reinfection among #children and adolescents in the #omicron era (RECOVER-EHR): a retrospective cohort study

 

Summary

Background

Post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC) remain a major public health challenge. Although previous studies have focused on characterising PASC in children and adolescents after an initial infection, the risks of PASC after reinfection with the omicron variant remain unclear. We aimed to assess the risk of PASC diagnosis (U09.9) and symptoms and conditions potentially related to PASC in children and adolescents after a SARS-CoV-2 reinfection during the omicron period.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study used data from 40 children's hospitals and health institutions in the USA participating in the Researching COVID to Enhance Recovery (RECOVER) Initiative. We included patients younger than 21 years at the time of cohort entry; with documented SARS-CoV-2 infection after Jan 1, 2022; and who had at least one health-care visit within 24 months to 7 days before the first infection. The second SARS-CoV-2 infection was confirmed by positive PCR, antigen tests, or a diagnosis of COVID-19 that occurred at least 60 days after the first infection. The primary endpoint was a clinician-documented diagnosis of PASC (U09.9). Secondary endpoints were 24 symptoms and conditions previously identified as being potentially related to PASC. We used the modified Poisson regression model to estimate the relative risk (RR) between the second and first infection episodes, adjusted for demographic, clinical, and health-care utilisation factors using exact and propensity-score matching.

Findings

We identified 407 300 (87·5%) of 465 717 eligible children and adolescents with a first infection episode and 58 417 (12·5%) with a second infection episode from Jan 1, 2022, to Oct 13, 2023, in the RECOVER database. 233 842 (50·2%) patients were male and 231 875 (49·8%) were female. The mean age was 8·17 years (SD 6·58). The incident rate of PASC diagnosis (U09.9) per million people per 6 months was 903·7 (95% CI 780·9–1026·5) in the first infection group and 1883·7 (1565·1–2202·3) in the second infection group. Reinfection was associated with a significantly increased risk of an overall PASC diagnosis (U09.9) (RR 2·08 [1·68–2·59]) and a range of symptoms and conditions potentially related to PASC (RR range 1·15–3·60), including myocarditis, changes in taste and smell, thrombophlebitis and thromboembolism, heart disease, acute kidney injury, fluid and electrolyte disturbance, generalised pain, arrhythmias, abnormal liver enzymes, chest pain, fatigue and malaise, headache, musculoskeletal pain, abdominal pain, mental ill health, POTS or dysautonomia, cognitive impairment, skin conditions, fever and chills, respiratory signs and symptoms, and cardiovascular signs and symptoms.

Interpretation

Children and adolescents face a significantly higher risk of various PASC outcomes after reinfection with SARS-CoV-2. These findings add to previous evidence linking paediatric long COVID to multisystem effects and highlight the need to promote vaccination in younger populations and support ongoing research to better understand PASC, identify high-risk subgroups, and improve prevention and care strategies.

Funding

National Institutes of Health.

Source: The Lancet Infectious Diseases, https://www.thelancet.com/journals/laninf/article/PIIS1473-3099(25)00476-1/fulltext?rss=yes

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

 

{By © Hans Hillewaert, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=5548312}

Wild species: Black-headed Gull (8), Mew Gull (8).

{Norðurland vestra Region} Approximately 20 gulls were found dead at the beach. A pooled sample from 3 mew gulls was taken and found positive for HPAI H5N5.

{Icelandic Exclusive Economic Zone} Approximately 20 gulls were found dead at the beach. A pooled sample from 3 black-headed gulls was taken and found positive for HPAI H5N5.

Source: WOAH, https://wahis.woah.org/#/in-review/6816

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

 

{England, Cumberland} A chicken breeders flock of 43,339 birds. Increased mortality and other clinical signs (lethargy, respiratory distress, swollen heads, tremors, watery diarrhoea and excessive oral discharge) were reported. Samples taken and were tested positive for HPAI H5N1.

Source: WOAH, https://wahis.woah.org/#/in-review/6824

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

 

{By Andreas Trepte - Own work, CC BY-SA 2.5, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=37690004}

A wild Whooper Swan in Vidzemes Region.

Source: https://wahis.woah.org/#/in-review/6825

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#Italy - High pathogenicity avian #influenza #H5N1 viruses (#poultry) (Inf. with) - Follow up report 23 [FINAL]

 

The highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (HPAI), subtype H5N1 - has been detected in a commercial farm of laying hens located in the Municipality of Roverbella, Mantova Province, Lombardia region.

The highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (HPAI), subtype H5N1 - has been detected in a commercial farm of laying hens located in the Municipality of Cerasara, Mantova Province, Lombardia region.

The highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (HPAI), subtype H5N1 - has been detected in a commercial farm of broiler located in the Municipality of Chivasso, Torino Province, Piemonte region.

The highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (HPAI), subtype H5N1 - has been detected in a commercial farm of laying hens located in the Municipality of Vigasio, Verona Province, Veneto region.

The highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (HPAI), subtype H5N1 - has been detected in a commercial farm of laying hens located in the Municipality of Sona, Verona Province, Veneto region.

The highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (HPAI), subtype H5N1 - has been detected in a commercial farm of fattening turkeys located in the Municipality of Isola della Scala - Verona Province, Veneto region

{30+ More Poultry Outbreak reported in the F.U. Report for a total of 4,362,092 birds involved.}

(...)

Source: WOAH, https://wahis.woah.org/#/in-review/5925

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#Circumpolar spread of avian #influenza #H5N1 to southern Indian Ocean islands

 

Abstract

Since 2020, the outbreak of high pathogenicity avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 virus clade 2.3.4.4b has turned into the largest documented panzootic 1,3. Here, we describe its arrival into the Indian Ocean sub-Antarctic archipelagos of Crozet and Kerguelen, where we first detected the virus in October 2024 in dead southern elephant seals. While the panzootic is ongoing, it has already caused unprecedented mortalities of marine mammals and seabirds. We collected brain swabs from seal and seabird carcasses and obtained 25 novel HPAI H5N1 2.3.4.4b sequences. Using phylogeographic analyses, we show that there have been independent introductions of the virus to Crozet and Kerguelen islands, most likely from the distant South Georgia islands in the Southern Atlantic, and not from the more nearby coasts of South Africa. Our results point to a year-long gap in genomic surveillance in the sub-Antarctic region. Locally, our analyses show that the virus is transmitted between different species. Our serological analyses show that some southern elephant seal had mounted an anti-H5 antibody response. Through its circumpolar spread to the Indian Ocean, HPAI H5N1 2.3.4.4b moves closer to Australia, which remains free from infections with this strain, and represents a major threat to the sub-Antarctic wildlife.

Source: Nature Communications, https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-025-64297-y

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#Austria - #Influenza A #H5N1 viruses of high pathogenicity (Inf. with) (non-poultry including wild birds) (2017-) - Follow up report 1

Wild Mute Swans in the Kärnten Region.

Source: WOAH, https://wahis.woah.org/#/in-review/6821

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Highly Pathogenic Avian #Influenza #H5N1 in Raw #Pet #Foods and #Milk: A Growing #Threat to both Companion Animals and #Human #Health, and Potential Raw Pet Food Industry Liability

 

Highlights

• Raw pet foods and raw milk are emerging sources of H5N1 in pets.

• Cats are more severely infected with H5N1 when compared to dogs.

• H5N1 persistence in mammals indicate adaptive variants with increased zoonotic potential.

• No reported pet-to-human transmission of H5N1 has been reported.

• FDA now requires RMBD makers who are covered under FSMA to assess HPAI risk.

Abstract

The increasing popularity of raw meat-based diets (RMBDs) and raw milk feeding in companion animals presents a growing concern for zoonotic disease transmission. Recent evidence has demonstrated that these products can serve as vehicles for highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1, an emergent viral threat with a host range from birds, dairy cattle, and pets to humans. Since the emergence of clade 2.3.4.4b in 2020, HPAI H5N1 has caused widespread outbreaks in poultry, wild birds, and mammals, including dairy cattle and cats. Transmission to pets has been linked to ingestion of contaminated raw pet food and unpasteurized milk. Notably, multiple outbreaks in cats across Europe, Asia, and North America have been associated with raw pet food products, while recent U.S. cases confirm direct viral transmission from infected pet food, raw milk, and colostrum. Experimental studies have also supported the plausibility of gastrointestinal and respiratory routes of infection in cats and dogs, with felines appearing particularly susceptible, often exhibiting severe clinical disease and high mortality. A number of documented recalls of H5N1-contaminated raw pet food and raw milk in the US underscore the persistence of infectious viruses in cold-stored food products and highlight the risks of feeding raw diets. Although pet-to-human transmission of the HPAI H5N1 virus has not been reported yet, cat-to-human transmission of the H7N2 influenza virus has been reported in the USA. This review presents current evidence on H5N1 in RMBDs and raw milk, its epidemiology in companion animals, outbreaks, and the health implications among pets and humans. By raising awareness among pet owners, industry stakeholders, and veterinarians, this paper highlights the immediate need for stringent surveillance and improved biosecurity in raw food supply chains to minimize viral transmission risks thereby safeguarding pet health and curb the potential spillover to humans.

Source: Journal of Food Protection, https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0362028X25001802?via%3Dihub

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Pasteurized #Milk Serves as a Passive #Surveillance #Tool for Highly Pathogenic Avian #Influenza Virus in Dairy #Cattle

 

Abstract

The emergence of H5N1 highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (HPAIV) clade 2.3.4.4b in dairy cattle across multiple U.S. states in early 2024 marks a major shift in the virus’s host range and epidemiological profile. Traditionally limited to bird species, the ongoing detection of H5N1 in cattle, a mammalian host not previously considered vulnerable, raises urgent animal and human health concerns about zoonoses and mammalian adaptation. We assessed the feasibility of using commercially available pasteurized milk as a sentinel matrix for the molecular detection and genetic characterization of H5N1 HPAIV. Our aim was to determine whether retail milk could serve as a practical tool for virological monitoring and to evaluate the use of full-length genome segment amplification for extracting genomic sequence information from this highly processed matrix. Our results link HPAIV sequences in store-bought milk to the cattle outbreak and highlight both the potential and the limitations of retail milk as a surveillance window. Together, these findings provide evidence that influenza A virus RNA can be repeatedly detected in retail milk in patterns linked to specific supply chains, with genomic data confirming close relationships with the viruses circulating in cattle.

Source: Viruses, https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4915/17/10/1318

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Portrait of Giovanna Tornabuoni, Domenico Ghirlandaio (1489 - 1490)

Public Domain.

Source: WikiArt, https://www.wikiart.org/en/domenico-ghirlandaio/portrait-of-giovanna-tornabuoni-1490

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