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

 

Two mute swans in Kyiv City.

Source: 

Link: https://wahis.woah.org/#/in-review/7201

____

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

Two mute swan in Teleneşti Region.

Source: 

Link: https://wahis.woah.org/#/in-review/7195

____

#Sweden - #Influenza A #H5N2 viruses of high pathogenicity (Inf. with) (non-poultry including wild birds) (2017-) - Immediate notification

 

A Barnacle goose was found diseased and was euthanized. It was sent to the Swedish Veterinary Agency for laboratory analysis as part of the national surveillance program for avian influenza. {Sölvesborg Region}

Source: 

Link: https://wahis.woah.org/#/in-review/7191

____

Genetic Characterization and Evolutionary #Insights of Novel #H1N1 Swine #Influenza Viruses Identified from #Pigs in #Shandong Province, #China

 

Abstract

Influenza A viruses exhibit broad host tropism, infecting multiple species including humans, avian species, and swine. Swine influenza virus (SIV), while primarily circulating in porcine populations, demonstrates zoonotic potential with sporadic human infections. In this investigation, we identified two H1N1 subtype swine influenza A virus strains designated A/swine/China/SD6591/2019(H1N1) (abbreviated SD6591) and A/swine/China/SD6592/2019(H1N1) (abbreviated SD6592) in Shandong Province, China. The GenBank accession numbers of the SD6591 viral gene segments are PV464931-PV464938, and the GenBank accession numbers corresponding to each of the eight SD6592 viral gene segments are PV464939-PV464946. Phylogenetic and recombination analyses suggest potential evolutionary differences between the isolates. SD6591 displayed a unique triple-reassortant genotype: comparative nucleotide homology assessments demonstrated that the PB2, PB1, NP, NA, HA, and NEP genes shared the highest similarity with classical swine-origin H1N1 viruses. In contrast, SD6592 maintained genomic conservation with previously characterized H1N1 swine strains, although neither of these two isolates exhibited significant intrasegmental recombination events. Through comprehensive sequence analysis of these H1N1 SIVs, this study provides preliminary insights into their evolutionary history and underscores the persistent risk of cross-species transmission at the human–swine interface. These findings establish an essential foundation for enhancing national SIV surveillance programs and informing evidence-based prevention strategies against emerging influenza threats.

Source: 

Link: https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4915/18/1/117

____

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

 

Abstract

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

Competing Interest Statement

The authors have declared no competing interest.

Funding Statement

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

Source: 

Link: https://www.medrxiv.org/content/10.64898/2026.01.07.25342310v1

____

An #mRNA #influenza #vaccine induces #immunity comparable to an adjuvanted vaccine in a randomized trial

 

Abstract

Influenza causes substantial morbidity and mortality worldwide. This randomized, open-label, phase 1 trial (ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT05397223, date of registration: May 31, 2022) compared the immunogenicity of an mRNA-based quadrivalent influenza hemagglutinin (HA) vaccine (mRNA-1010) with a licensed comparator (FLUAD) in adults aged 18-75 years. We evaluated humoral and cellular immune responses using hemagglutination inhibition assays, flow cytometry-based memory B cell (MBC) profiling, and intracellular cytokine staining for T-cell characterization. Both vaccines elicited durable hemagglutination inhibition titers and increased HA-specific MBC responses across four vaccine strains. Compared with FLUAD, mRNA-1010 induced higher frequencies of classical and activated MBCs specific to the H3 HA included in the vaccine, while inducing similar MBC responses to the other strains. mRNA-1010 and FLUAD generated strong HA-specific CD4+ T-cell responses; a trend toward higher CD8+ T-cell responses was observed in mRNA-1010 recipients compared with FLUAD recipients for two of the four strains. These findings support the potential of the mRNA platform for seasonal influenza vaccination.

Source: 

Link: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41541-026-01370-7

____

#Genomic Insights into #Marburg Virus Strains from 2023 and 2025 #Outbreaks in Kagera, #Tanzania

 

Abstract

Marburg virus (MARV) is the primary cause of Marburg virus disease (MVD), a severe hemorrhagic fever with a high case-fatality rate. The first reported MVD outbreak in Tanzania occurred in 2023, followed by a second outbreak in 2025, both within the Kagera region. During those MVD outbreaks, 174 suspected cases were identified; of those, 10 were laboratory confirmed. After complete genome assembly and bioinformatic analyses, we found the MARV strains of the 2023 and 2025 outbreaks to be closely related and clustered with MARV strains that caused outbreaks in Rwanda (2024) and Uganda (2014). The sequences from both MVD outbreaks in Tanzania showed >99.71% nucleotide identity, suggesting a possible single spillover event followed by limited human-to-human virus transmission. Further ecologic studies are essential to identify potential spillover events, but our findings indicate that closely related MARV strains circulate in Kagera, Tanzania, posing a risk for future outbreak recurrence.

Source: 

Link: https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/eid/article/32/1/25-1314_article

____

#Trends in #heart #failure prevalence in post-disaster #Fukushima residents 2015–2021

 

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of heart failure (HF) among adults aged ≥ 40 years using health checkup and medical claim data in Fukushima from 2015 to 2021. Joinpoint regression and age-period-cohort analyses were conducted to estimate temporal trends. Age-standardized prevalence and hospital admission rates for HF were 37.0 and 7.4/1000 and 25.9 and 5.3/1000 for men and women, respectively. The prevalence was significantly higher in the coastal area and evacuation zone designated after the 2011 disaster compared to the prefecture overall. In men, the prevalence increased continuously, with an average annual percentage change (AAPC) ranging from 0.72% (evacuation zone) to 1.15% (mountainous area) (P < 0.05). In total residents, the AAPC was significant only in the mountainous areas (0.78%, P = 0.021). Age-period-cohort analysis showed a net drift of 2.50% (95% CI 1.88–3.13%) in men and 0.76% (95% CI − 0.17–1.70%) in women. Cohort rate ratios increased significantly in men born between 1925 and 1975, while in women, they decreased for those born between 1925 and 1960 but increased for those born between 1960 and 1970. The prevalence of HF varied across post-disaster areas of Fukushima. Given that pathological changes and modifiable risk factors for HF accumulate gradually, continuous monitoring among middle-aged adults is essential to enable timely prevention and targeted intervention.

Source: 

Link: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-026-36032-0

____

#Molecular basis of 60 years of #antigenic #evolution of #human #influenza #H3N2 virus neuraminidase

 

Highlights

• Human influenza A virus N2 neuraminidases were analyzed by antigenic cartography

• N2 antigenic evolution was discordant with antigenic evolution of H3 hemagglutinin

• Important epitopes were identified at the NA active site but also elsewhere in NA

• Changes in charge, volume, and hydropathy of epitope residues caused antigenic drift

Summary

Human influenza A viruses escape antibody-mediated immunity through changes in the hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA) glycoproteins. HA antigenic evolution has been studied extensively, with more recent interest in NA due to its importance in influenza vaccine efficacy. Here, the antigenic properties of the NA of more than 300 A(H3N2) and A(H2N2) viruses isolated since 1957 were quantified with a NA inhibition enzyme-linked lectin assay and visualized using antigenic cartography, with follow-up molecular studies using recombinant viruses. The antigenic evolution of N2 NA was more gradual than that described for H3 HA, and antigenic changes in NA and HA were discordant. Multiple substitutions around the NA active site and tetramer lateral side that alter the charge, volume, or hydropathy of amino acids collectively determined antigenic properties. These data facilitate sequence-based genomic surveillance and inference of antigenic phenotypes from genotypes and offer opportunities to improve influenza vaccine effectiveness through increased focus on NA.

Source: 

Link: https://www.cell.com/cell-host-microbe/abstract/S1931-3128(25)00525-6?rss=yes

____

A VLP-based #mRNA #vaccine elicits potent humoral and cellular #immunity against #Oropouche virus

 

ABSTRACT

Oropouche virus (OROV) is reemerging in the Americas, along with a growing threat to global public health. Recent outbreaks have witnessed the first reported fatalities, vertical transmissions, and intercontinental importations of OROV, underscoring its expanding risk. Despite this, no vaccines or specific therapeutics are available, and fundamental research on OROV vaccinology and antigenicity remains limited. Here, we show that co-expression of the M polyprotein and nucleocapsid protein (NP) drives the assembly of OROV virus-like particles (VLPs) with high immunogenicity. Using the prototype strain OROV/sloth/Brazil/PA-UG-BeAn19991/1960, we developed an mRNA vaccine, M/N-vac, encoding these VLPs. Immunization with M/N-vac in mice elicited robust OROV-specific IgG and pseudovirus-neutralizing antibodies that cross-reacted with a contemporary circulating strain, hOROV/Brazil/AM-UKY-AM0088/2024. The vaccine also induced a durable, antigen-specific Th1-biased cellular immune response characterized by high-level interferon-gamma secretion. Additionally, we identified a highly conserved potential immunodominant epitope in BALB/c, N2-3, within the nucleocapsid protein. Furthermore, the VLP-encoding mRNA vaccine induced stronger OROV-specific humoral and cellular immune responses than the VLP protein vaccine. In vivo results based on immunization with M/N-vac demonstrate VLP-based vaccines to be a promising broad-spectrum strategy against OROV while providing novel insights into their antigenicity and design.

Source: 

Link: https://journals.asm.org/doi/full/10.1128/mbio.03653-25?af=R

____

Humoral #immunity after #LP81 monovalent #vaccines against a broad range of #SARS-CoV-2 #variants including #XEC, LP.8.1, NB.1.8.1, #XFG, and #BA32

 

{Excerpt}

In the spring of 2025, multiple SARS-CoV-2 Omicron JN.1 subvariants were circulating, with LP.8.1 among the major variants. Pharmaceutical companies, such as Pfizer–BioNTech, Moderna, and Novavax–Takeda, adopted monovalent LP.8.1 for their 2025–26 season vaccines, following recommendations issued by WHO in May, 2025. As of November, 2025, SARS-CoV-2 variants including LP.8.1, XEC, NB.1.8.1, and XFG—all designated as variants under monitoring—were circulating. In terms of the spike gene, these variants, as well as LP.8.1, are derived from JN.1. Moreover, BA.3.2, a BA.3 descendant bearing multiple mutations in its spike gene, has potentially been spreading and exhibiting robust immune evasion. In Japan, the roll-out of the LP.8.1-based vaccination has progressed since the end of September, 2025. We previously reported the humoral immunity induced by the XBB.1.5-based monovalent vaccine in 2023,6 and the JN.1-based monovalent vaccine in 2024 in the Japanese population. We investigated the efficiency of humoral immunity induced by two LP.8.1-based vaccines, the mRNA vaccine from Pfizer–BioNTech and the recombinant protein-based vaccine from Novavax–Takeda, in Japan. Of note, the Novavax SARS-CoV-2 vaccine strain was updated to LP.8.1 only in Japan in 2025, whereas the formulation remains unchanged from JN.1 globally outside of Japan.

(...)

Source: 

Link: https://www.thelancet.com/journals/laninf/article/PIIS1473-3099(25)00772-8/fulltext?rss=yes

____

Intranasal #replicon #vaccine establishes mucosal #immunity and protects against #H5N1 and #H7N9 #influenza

 

Abstract

Seasonal and pandemic influenza viruses are continuous threats to human health, requiring rapid development of vaccines to multiple evolving viral strains. RNA vaccine technologies have the adaptability and manufacturability to facilitate pandemic preparedness but have limited flexibility in their route of administration, reducing the ability to establish local protective immune responses such as respiratory mucosal immunity. Here, we describe monovalent and bivalent replicon vaccines against A/Vietnam/1203/2004 H5N1 and A/Anhui/PA-1/2013 H7N9. These replicon vaccines express either H5 or H7 hemagglutinin and are formulated with a nanostructured lipid carrier (NLC) that permits both intramuscular (IM) and intranasal (IN) dosing. In mice, IM vaccination established systemic humoral and cellular responses but no detectable mucosal response, while IN administration induced robust systemic and mucosal immunity. The replicon-NLC vaccines protected against morbidity and mortality in ferret challenge models, establishing this intranasally-administered replicon-NLC vaccine platform as a potential pandemic response tool.

Source: 

Link: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-025-64829-6

____

Novel recombinant H5-based #vaccine provides effective protection against #H5N1 #influenza virus in #cats

 

Abstract

The emergence and broad circulation of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 virus in wild birds and its spillover into dairy cows with sustained transmission in this species pose a major risk to felines, which are highly susceptible and often succumb to the infection. Here, we developed a novel recombinant hemagglutinin H5-based vaccine and evaluated its safety, immunogenicity, and protective efficacy against HPAI H5N1 virus in domestic cats. Immunization of cats with H5-vaccine candidate elicited robust levels of neutralizing antibodies against H5N1 virus and protection against disease, mortality, and infection upon H5N1 virus challenge. The vaccine-elicited immunity significantly reduced virus shedding and viremia, limiting systemic spread and disease severity in immunized animals. Importantly, beyond protecting susceptible felids, vaccinating cats against the H5N1 virus could also reduce the risk of human exposure - underscoring the One Health impact of implementing such a vaccination strategy in feline populations.

Source: 

Link: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41541-025-01369-6

____

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

 

A layer poultry farm (located near small rivers, ponds, and migratory birds) began showing clinical signs of an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza in its hens. These signs included pale combs and wattles, followed by increased mortality. The farm owner contacted the veterinary clinic in Taji, near Baghdad. A team of veterinarians was formed, samples were taken, and sent to the central laboratory for PCR testing. Control measures were initiated, including a ban on the movement of poultry. The entire flock will be culled in accordance with the procedures stipulated in Animal Health Law No. 32 of 2013, which mandates the culling of poultry infected with highly pathogenic avian influenza.

Source: 

Link: https://wahis.woah.org/#/in-review/7181

____

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

 

A breeding goose holding in Nógrád Region.

Source: 

Link: https://wahis.woah.org/#/in-review/7185

____

#Latvia - #Influenza A #H5N2 viruses of high pathogenicity (Inf. with) (non-poultry including wild birds) (2017-) - Immediate notification

Mallards in Saldus Region.

 Birds tested in frame of EFSA call project for Establishing capacities for active surveillance of highly pathogenic avian influenza in wild birds in Europe.

Source: 

Link: https://wahis.woah.org/#/in-review/7187

____

Broadly neutralizing monoclonal #antibodies against #influenza A viruses: current #insights and future directions

 

Abstract

Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) have become attractive tools for both the treatment and prevention of influenza A viruses due to their ability to target several viral components, which confers broad therapeutic potential. Advances in biotechnology, such as hybridoma technology, phage display technology, B cell immortalization, and artificial intelligence (Al)-driven antibody design, have significantly accelerated the development of effective mAbs. Clinical trials have shown that mAbs can improve clinical outcomes particularly in high-risk and immunocompromised populations by lowering viral loads and reducing disease severity. However, high production costs, the need for intravenous administration, and the risk of viral escape mutations are some of the obstacles to widespread clinical adoption. Post-marketing surveillance serves as a valuable source of information regarding safety, real-world effectiveness, and patterns of resistance. Broadly neutralizing antibodies (bnAbs), particularly those directed against conserved regions of the virus’s surface proteins, such as hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA), have demonstrated efficacy against antigenic drift-derived variants. Nevertheless, the emergence of escape mutants underscores the need for careful monitoring of mAb candidates and combination therapy. Monitoring genomic shifts requires a careful focus on the targeted regions affected by combination therapy. Challenges in accessibility are compounded by financial barriers, emphasizing the importance of large-scale production and alternative delivery methods, such as inhaled mAbs. To ensure that future mAb-based therapies for influenza A are both effective and accessible, it is critical to integrate resistance surveillance tools, monitoring AI, and advanced computational modeling in therapeutic strategies. This comprehensive review discusses the potential of mAbs to enhance influenza A treatment by offering precise and adaptable alternatives to traditional antivirals. It also examines recent technological advances, clinical performance, and scalability that may redefine future therapeutic strategies.

Source: 

Link: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/microbiology/articles/10.3389/fmicb.2025.1738181/full

____

The Tribute Money, Titian (1516)

 

Public Domain.

Source: 

Link: https://www.wikiart.org/en/titian/the-tribute-money-1516

____

#Clinical Features and #Management of a Critical #Human Case of #H10N3 Avian #Influenza: A Case Report and Literature Review

 

Highlights

• Nonspecific early signs hinder prompt diagnosis of H10N3 infection.

• H10N3 human infection remains rare but with high clinical severity.

• All patients had bird exposure and developed fever, cough, and dyspnoea.

• Diagnosis was confirmed by sequencing; imaging revealed viral pneumonia.

Abstract

Background

Since the first human case of H10N3 Avian Influenza in Jiangsu, China (April 2021), three cases have been reported globally. However, clinical and treatment data remain limited. Therefore, we describe the fourth patient’s epidemiology, clinical manifestations, diagnostics, treatment.

Case presentation

A 23-year-old woman, previously well, presented on 12 Dec 2024 with fever, dry cough and breathlessness after pig and chicken contact. CT showed bilateral pneumonia. Despite high-flow oxygen and broad-spectrum antibiotics she deteriorated, requiring intubation, lung-protective ventilation and VV-ECMO. Bronchoalveolar lavage isolated H10N3 influenza virus. Treatment with oseltamivir and baloxavir plus prone-position ventilation led to clinical improvement.

Conclusion

Due to its nonspecific early symptoms, H10N3 is difficult to diagnose promptly, increasing the risk. Early recognition, antiviral therapy, and aggressive support are essential in managing severe infections.

Source: 

Link: https://www.ijidonline.com/article/S1201-9712(26)00002-0/fulltext

____

#Coronavirus Disease Research #References (by AMEDEO, Jan. 11 '26)

 

BMJ

1. FLINDERS M, Cairney P, Elliott IC
   Delivering change after the UK covid inquiry.
   BMJ. 2026;392:s18.
   PubMed        
   
   
2. YAMEY G, Shaffer J
   Trump and RFK Jr are dismantling public health-aided and abetted by powerful doctors.
   BMJ. 2026;392:s19.
   PubMed        
   
   

   
   Clin Infect Dis

3. RAO A, Johnson L, Bassit L, Sullivan J, et al
   Independent Testing to Accelerate the Development of Lateral Flow Assays for Influenza A, Influenza B and SARS-COV-2.
   Clin Infect Dis. 2026 Jan 9:ciaf660. doi: 10.1093.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   
4. WANG XF, Calabrese C, Calabrese L
   Target Trial Emulation of Oral Antivirals for B-Cell-Depleted COVID-19 Patients-Reply to Chen et al.
   Clin Infect Dis. 2026 Jan 9:ciaf718. doi: 10.1093.
   PubMed        
   
   
5. PURPURA L, Heisler T, Palmer S, Shah J, et al
   Overlapping Clinical Presentation of Long COVID and Postacute COVID-19 Vaccination Syndrome: Phenotypes, Severity, and Biomarkers.
   Clin Infect Dis. 2026 Jan 9:ciaf624. doi: 10.1093.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   

   
   Emerg Infect Dis

6. WANG H, Embry T, Everhart K, Szekely M, et al
   Macrolide-Resistant Mycoplasma pneumoniae in Children, Ohio, USA.
   Emerg Infect Dis. 2025;31:2341-2343.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   

   
   Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol

7. WOODS A, Navarrete J, Li Q, Barbre K, et al
   SARS-CoV-2 infection rates among home dialysis patients and patients receiving hemodialysis at outpatient centers, January 2021-May 2023, United States.
   Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol. 2026 Jan 7:1-5. doi: 10.1017/ice.2025.10305.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   

   
   J Infect

8. NESAMAR R, Crowther C, Chiveto DT, Pillay T, et al
   Humoral and cellular immunogenicity of COVID-19 vaccine boosters in participants with advanced HIV disease.
   J Infect. 2026 Jan 7:106676. doi: 10.1016/j.jinf.2026.106676.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   

   
   J Med Virol

9. HUANG CY, Cheng CC, Chen SH, Cheng D, et al
   SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein-Mediated Cardiac Dysfunction: Structural Abnormalities, Impaired Calcium Dynamics, and Gene Expression Changes in Human Stem Cell-Derived Cardiomyocytes.
   J Med Virol. 2026;98:e70789.
   PubMed         Abstract available
   
   

   
   J Virol

10. ZHANG Z, Zeng Y, Lv Y, Li X, et al
    Salvianolic acid A exerts antiviral effects by targeting the S protein, a virulence factor of porcine epidemic diarrhea virus.
    J Virol. 2026 Jan 8:e0204325. doi: 10.1128/jvi.02043.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
11. MASTERS PS
    Coronavirus genome packaging and nucleocapsid assembly.
    J Virol. 2026 Jan 8:e0133025. doi: 10.1128/jvi.01330.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
12. HAZELL NC, Reyna RA, Adam A, Bonam SR, et al
    mRNA-delivered neutralizing antibodies confer protection against SARS-CoV-2 in animal models.
    J Virol. 2026 Jan 7:e0189725. doi: 10.1128/jvi.01897.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    

    
    JAMA

13. PRASAD V, Makary MA
    FDA Labeling Change for mRNA COVID-19 Vaccines-Reply.
    JAMA. 2026 Jan 7. doi: 10.1001/jama.2025.21754.
    PubMed        
    
    
14. MEYEROWITZ EA
    FDA Labeling Change for mRNA COVID-19 Vaccines.
    JAMA. 2026 Jan 7. doi: 10.1001/jama.2025.21752.
    PubMed        
    
    

    
    Science

15. KUPFERSCHMIDT K
    New conflicts erupt over key virus database.
    Science. 2026;391:116-117.
    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
16. CAVANAGH PE, Xue AG, Dai SA, Qiang A, et al
    Computational design of conformation-biasing mutations to alter protein functions.
    Science. 2026 Jan 8:eadv7953. doi: 10.1126/science.adv7953.
    PubMed         Abstract available