#Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses Research #References (by AMEDEO, Feb. 7 '26)

 

Antimicrob Agents Chemother

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   PLoS One

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17. MAVROVOUNIOTIS ML
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19. DO MH, Nguyen TT, Grote U
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20. KINDU M, Yenesew MA, Kassie GG
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21. REID CN, Beckstead JW, Salinas-Miranda AA
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22. CHIKANYA ER, Chimbari MJ
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23. MIRANDA MF, Alvarez C, Earp J, Gurovich AN, et al
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24. ASSAAD M, Chamma N, Mateev M, Rizk R, et al
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    Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A

25. WANG J, Tai W, Wang Z, Dai W, et al
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    Vaccine

26. WIWE EF, Jorgensen M, Brandt L, Talouzi N, et al
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27. ZHANG M, Huang S, Ruan C, Jiang Y, et al
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28. RENNER TM, Agbayani G, Azizi H, Deschatelets L, et al
    Heterologous vs. homologous vaccine regimens: Sulfated lactosyl archaeol (SLA) archaeosome-adjuvanted SARS-CoV-2 spike protein boost following an mRNA/LNP prime induces robust and balanced immune responses.
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29. ALBY-LAURENT F, Ouedrani A, Jateau P, Strullu M, et al
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30. HOBBS M, Marek L, Wiki J, Paynter J, et al
    Examining spatial variation and inequity in COVID-19 immunisation coverage in Aotearoa New Zealand: a nationwide geospatial study.
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    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    
31. GIDUTHURI JG, Vengiau G, Vutliu V, Manineng C, et al
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32. HERRAEZ CARRERA O, Gomez-Romero FJ, Marin Sanchez R, Fernandez Martin J, et al
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33. MALLET A, Jaunay LB, Jaury P, Partouche H, et al
    Vaccine refusal during the COVID-19 pandemic: A qualitative study.
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34. MADSEN AMR, Schaltz-Buchholzer F, Trebbien R, Roring R, et al
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35. KIM DH, Kim JC, Lee SH, Kim J, et al
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    PubMed         Abstract available
    
    

    
    Virus Res

36. LUO X, Liu H, Kuang H, Xie Y, et al
    Impacts of Delayed Influenza Vaccination on Clinical Outcomes in ICU-Admitted Patients with Influenza: A Retrospective Cohort Study.
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37. NAZKI S, Reine J, Kailath R, Gilbert S, et al
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#Nipah virus #infection - #Bangladesh (#WHO D.O.N., Feb. 7 '26)

 

6 February 2026

Situation at a glance

On 3 February 2026, the International Health Regulations National Focal Point (IHR NFP) for Bangladesh notified WHO of one confirmed case of Nipah virus (NiV) infection in Rajshahi Division. 

The patient developed fever and neurological symptoms on 21 January. 

Nipah virus infection was laboratory-confirmed on 29 January. 

The patient reported no travel history but had a history of consuming raw date palm sap. 

All 35 contact-persons are being monitored and have tested negative for NiV and no further cases have been detected to date. 

Bangladesh regularly has small NiV outbreaks, with cases reported at different times of the year, though outbreaks tend to occur between December and April corresponding with the harvesting and consumption of date palm sap. 

The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare in Bangladesh has implemented several public health measures. 

WHO assesses the overall public health risk posed by NiV to be low at the national, the regional and global level. 

The risk of international disease spread is considered low.

Description of the situation

On 3 February 2026, the Bangladesh IHR NFP notified WHO of one confirmed case of NiV infection that occurred in Rajshahi Division, northwestern Bangladesh. 

The case was confirmed by Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) testing on 29 January 2026.

The patient is female, aged between 40-50 years, residing in Naogaon District, Rajshahi Division. 

She developed symptoms consistent with NiV infection on 21 January, including fever, headache, muscle cramps, loss of appetite (anorexia), weakness, and vomiting, followed by hypersalivation, disorientation, and convulsion. 

On 27 January, she became unconscious and was referred by a local physician to a tertiary hospital. 

She was admitted on 28 January, and the Nipah surveillance team collected throat swabs and blood samples. The patient died the same day.

The patient reported repeated consumption of raw date palm sap between 5 and 20 January 2026. 

Following the confirmed diagnosis, an outbreak investigation team, including One Health stakeholders, started investigations on 30 January.

A total of 35 contact persons has been identified, including three household contact persons, 14 community contact persons and 18 hospital contact persons. 

Samples were collected from six symptomatic contact persons, including three from household, two from communities and one from hospital. 

All six samples tested negative for NiV infection by PCR and anti-Nipah IgM antibody detection by ELISA. 

As of 3 February, no additional cases have been identified. Contact persons are under monitoring.

Bangladesh reported its first case of NiV infection in 2001. Since then, human infections have been reported almost every year. In 2025, four laboratory-confirmed fatal cases were reported from Bangladesh.

Epidemiology

NiV infection is a zoonotic disease transmitted to humans through infected animals (such as bats), or food contaminated with saliva, urine, and excreta of infected animals. It can also be transmitted directly from person to person through close contact with an infected person. Fruit bats, also known as flying foxes, (Pteropus species) are the natural hosts for the virus. 

The incubation period ranges from 3 to 14 days. In some rare cases, incubation of up to 45 days has been reported. Laboratory diagnosis of a patient with a clinical history of NiV infection can be made during the acute and convalescent phases of the disease by using a combination of tests. The main tests used are RT-PCR from bodily fluids and antibody detection via ELISA. 

Human infections range from asymptomatic infection to acute respiratory infection (mild, severe), and fatal encephalitis (brain swelling). 

Infected people initially develop symptoms including fever, headaches, myalgia (muscle pain), vomiting and sore throat. This can be followed by dizziness, drowsiness, altered consciousness, and neurological signs that indicate acute encephalitis. Some people can experience atypical pneumonia and severe respiratory problems, including acute respiratory distress. Encephalitis and seizures occur in severe cases, progressing to coma within 24 to 48 hours. 

Further information about NiV infection can be found here. 

The CFR in previous outbreaks across Bangladesh, India, Malaysia, Philippines and Singapore ranged from 40% to 75%, depending on local capabilities for early detection and clinical management. There are currently no licensed medicines or vaccines specific for NiV infection. Early intensive supportive care is recommended to treat severe respiratory and neurologic complications. Henipavirus nipahense (or Nipah virus) is considered a priority pathogen for the acceleration of medical countermeasures to respond to epidemics and pandemics as part of the WHO R&D Blueprint for Epidemics.

Public health response

Several public health measures have been implemented by local authorities, including:

-- On 30 January 2026, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), in collaboration with relevant sectors, initiated an outbreak investigation using a coordinated One Health approach.

-- Active contact tracing was implemented to identify and monitor exposed individuals.

-- Preparations were undertaken to conduct an advocacy meeting involving Civil Surgeons, Upazila Health Officers, Hospital Directors, and Superintendents from Nipah-endemic districts.

-- Community awareness programmes are being planned with the involvement of field-level health workers.

-- Audio-visual health education materials on NiV infection are being developed for point-of-entry staff and travellers.

The support provided by WHO includes: 

-- WHO is monitoring the situation closely, in coordination with the national and sub-national health authorities.

-- WHO facilitated IHR event communication to notify the case.  

WHO risk assessment

Nipah virus is a zoonotic pathogen with a high death rate and no licensed vaccine or treatment, though early supportive treatment can save lives. Its reservoirs are fruit bats or flying foxes (bats of the Pteropus genus), which are distributed in the coastal regions and on several islands in the Indian ocean, India, south-east Asia and Oceania. The virus can be transmitted to humans from wild and domestic animals. Secondary human-to-human transmissions are also possible. Cases of Nipah virus infection were first reported in 1998 and since then have been reported in Bangladesh, India, Malaysia, Philippines and Singapore. The virus is present in Bangladesh, while NiV cases are reported throughout the year, outbreaks tend to occur between December and April corresponding with the harvesting and consumption of date palm sap. Clusters of cases are mainly reported in the country’s central and northwest districts. 

To date, since 2001 Bangladesh has documented 348 NiV disease cases, including 250 deaths, corresponding to an overall case fatality rate of 72%. Nearly half of these cases (n=162) were primary cases with a confirmed history of consuming raw date palm sap or tari (fermented date palm sap), while 29% resulted from direct person-to-person transmission. Most cases detected in Bangladesh were reported through December to April, suggesting a seasonal pattern.  

Based on the current available information, WHO assesses the overall public health risk posed by NiV at the national level to be low due to the following reasons:

-- The case fatality rate from NiV infection is high. There are currently no specific drugs or vaccines available for NiV infection, although WHO has identified Nipah as a priority disease for research under WHO Research and Development Blueprint. Intensive supportive care is recommended for the treatment of severe respiratory and neurologic complications. 

-- The initial signs and symptoms of NiV infection are non-specific, and the diagnosis is often not suspected at the time of presentation. This can delay timely diagnosis and create challenges in outbreak detection, effective and timely infection control measures, and outbreak response activities. 

-- Fruit bats (Pteropus spp.), as a natural reservoir of the Nipah virus, are present in Bangladesh and repeated spillover of the virus from its reservoir to the human population has been demonstrated. 

-- Despite ongoing efforts at risk communication and community engagement to address awareness, there is continued consumption of raw date palm sap by the community. 

-- However, the yearly number of NiV cases reported in Bangladesh remains under 10 since 2016, with exception in 2023 when 14 cases were reported. Although human-to-human transmission has been reported in previous outbreaks, it has been less frequent in recent years. 

-- In addition, strong public health measures are in place to detect and control outbreaks, including a hospital-based systematic human NiV infection surveillance system which has been established since 2006, the utilization of the National Rapid Response Team (NRRT) at the central level and the Rapid Response Team (RRT) at the district level and the capacity to rapidly test samples. 

-- Bangladesh borders India and Myanmar, and WHO assesses the risk at the regional level to be low. While there have not been any instances of cross-border transmission by humans previously, the risk remains, given shared ecological corridor for the virus's natural host Pteropus bats and occurrence among domestic animals and humans previously in both countries. However, India has strong capacities and experience of controlling previous NiV outbreaks. 

WHO assesses the risk at the global level to be low, as there have been no previous confirmed cases outside Bangladesh, India, Malaysia, Philippines and Singapore. 

WHO advice

In the absence of a licensed vaccine or specific therapeutic treatment for Nipah virus disease, reducing or preventing infection in people relies on raising awareness of the risk factors. This includes providing guidance on and reinforcing risk communication messages about the measures that people can take to reduce exposure to the Nipah virus. Case management should focus on delivering timely supportive care, supported by an effective laboratory system and adequate infection prevention and control measures in health facilities. Intensive supportive care is recommended for treatment of severe respiratory and neurologic complications.  

Public health educational messages should focus on: 

-- Reducing the risk of bat-to-human transmission 

-- Efforts to prevent transmission should first focus on decreasing bat access to date palm sap and other fresh food products. Freshly collected date palm juice should be boiled, and fruits should be thoroughly washed and peeled before consumption. Fruits with signs of bat bites should be discarded. Areas where bats are known to roost should be avoided.

Reducing the risk of human-to-human transmission:

-- Close unprotected physical contact with NiV-infected people should be avoided. Regular hand washing should be carried out after caring for or visiting sick people along other preventive measures. 

-- People experiencing Nipah-like symptoms should be referred to a health facility, as early supportive care is key in the absence of treatment. Contact tracing and monitoring are also key to mitigate human-to-human transmission.  

Controlling infection in health care settings:

-- Health and care workers caring for patients with suspected or confirmed infection, or handling specimens from them, should always implement standard precautions for infection prevention and control at all times, for all patients. 

-- When caring for patients with suspected or confirmed NiV, WHO advises the use of contact and droplet precautions including a well-fitting medical mask, eye protection, a fluid-resistant gown, and examination gloves. Airborne precautions should be implemented during aerosol-generating procedures, including placing the patient in an airborne-infection isolation room and the use of a fit-tested filtering facepiece respirator instead of a medical mask. Suspected or confirmed cases of NiV should be placed in a single-patient room.  For family members and caregivers visiting patients with suspected or confirmed Nipah virus, similar precautions should be applied.     

-- Samples taken from people and animals with suspected NiV infection should be handled by trained staff working in suitably equipped laboratories. 

Based on the currently available information, WHO does not recommend any travel and/or trade restrictions.

Further information

1) World Health Organization. WHO South-East Asia Regional Strategy for the prevention and control of Nipah virus infection 2023–2030. Available at: https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789290210849 

2) World Health Organization. Technical Brief: Enhancing readiness for a Nipah virus event in countries not reporting a Nipah virus event. Interim Document, February 2024. Available at: https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789290211273  

3) World Health Organization. Nipah virus. Available at: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/nipah-virus     

4) World Health Organization. Nipah virus infection. Available at: https://www.who.int/health-topics/nipah-virus-infection#tab=tab_1   

5) World Health Organization (27 February 2024). Disease Outbreak News; Nipah virus infection – Bangladesh. Available at: https://www.who.int/emergencies/disease-outbreak-news/item/2024-DON508  

6) World Health Organization (18 September 2025). Disease Outbreak News; Nipah virus infection – Bangladesh. Available at: https://www.who.int/emergencies/disease-outbreak-news/item/2025-DON582  

7) Nipah Situation Dashboard, Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR) https://www.iedcr.gov.bd/site/page/d5c87d45-b8cf-4a96-9f94-7170e017c9ce/- 

8) Nipah Virus Transmission in Bangladesh https://www.iedcr.gov.bd/site/page/03d6e960-2539-4966-8788-4a12753e410d/-    

10) Nipah virus outbreak with person-to-person transmission in a district of Bangladesh, 2007 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20380769/  

11) Foodborne Transmission of Nipah Virus, Bangladesh https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3291367    

12) Nipah virus outbreak trends in Bangladesh during the period 2001 to 2024: a brief review https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11872451/  

13) Nipah Virus Disease: Epidemiological, Clinical, Diagnostic and Legislative Aspects of This Unpredictable Emerging Zoonosis https://www.mdpi.com/2076-2615/13/1/159 - B66-animals-13-00159     

14) The Ecology of Nipah Virus in Bangladesh: A Nexus of Land-Use Change and Opportunistic Feeding Behavior in Bats https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7910977/ 

15) World Health Organization (30 January 2026). Disease Outbreak News; Nipah virus infection – India. Available at: https://www.who.int/emergencies/disease-outbreak-news/item/2026-DON593

Source: 

Link: https://www.who.int/emergencies/disease-outbreak-news/item/2026-DON594

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History of Mass Transportation: The UP 18 GTEL preserved at the Illinois Railway Museum

 

By User:JeremyA - Own work, CC BY-SA 2.5, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=601906

Source: 

Link: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gas-turbine_locomotive

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#USA, #Wastewater Data for Avian #Influenza #H5 (#CDC, Feb. 6 '26)

 

{Excerpt}

Time Period: January 25, 2026 - January 31, 2026

-- H5 Detection: 4 site(s) (0.9%)

-- No Detection: 458 site(s) (99.1%)

-- No samples in last week: 192 site(s)

The H5 detections at sewershed IDs 809 and 912 in Michigan are false detections resulting from a data error. These will be corrected in the next update.

(...)

Source: 

Link: https://www.cdc.gov/nwss/rv/wwd-h5.html

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

{Nitriansky Region} Commercial poultry farm - fattenning turkeys, laying hens and pullets (in toal 36 000 heads). From 3.2. to 5.2. mortaliy in one barn up to100% (7000 fattening turkeys). Restriction zones (3 and 10 km) have been established. Epidemiological enquiry and depopulation of the farm are ongoing. 

Source: 

Link: https://wahis.woah.org/#/in-review/7250

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Avian #Influenza #H5N1 #Infection During #Pregnancy: Preparing for the Next Flu #Pandemic and Improving Perinatal Outcomes

 

Abstract

Influenza (flu) is a common respiratory virus with seasonal global spread. Zoonotic viruses can occasionally cross species, leading to pandemic-level spread, and for flu viruses, this is considered an “antigenic shift”. The flu can be particularly severe during pregnancy due to immune system adaptations that occur during pregnancy, with prior global pandemics causing excess hospitalizations, deaths, and other complications in the mothers and the neonates. We aim to review the current literature with respect to novel avian H5N1 and the potential impact of infection with flu during pregnancy. A systematic literature search was conducted. Here we provide a rapid summary of epidemiology and understanding of viral spread, published risks of H5N1 in pregnancy, the unique physiologic, cellular, and molecular adaptations making H5N1 infection unique in pregnancy, implementation of an effective vaccine program in event of a pandemic specific to pregnant individuals, optimizing peripartum care for infected individuals, and direction for future research to direct vaccine strategy and mitigate risks in a future flu pandemic.

Source: 

Link: https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4915/18/2/212

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A case of avian #influenza #H5N6 presented with secondary #infection in #Anhui Province, #China, 2024

 

Abstract

A case of H5N6 avian influenza was reported in Anhui Province, China. The viral titers in the patient's lungs and pharynx decreased rapidly after oseltamivir treatment, yet it still fatal. The whole genome sequencing suggested that it derived from four distinct sources and classified within the 2.3.4.4b clade.

Source: 

Link: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1684118226000034?via%3Dihub

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#Epidemiology and #genomic features of #MERS #coronavirus in #Africa: a systematic and meta-analysis review

 

Highlights

• 74% pooled MERS-CoV seroprevalence in African dromedaries

• Highest MERS-CoV RNA incidence (15.3%) observed in juvenile dromedaries

• 2.4% pooled MERS-CoV seroprevalence in camel-exposed humans

• African MERS-CoV clade C exhibits unique polymorphisms

• Clade-specific features might explain low MERS-CoV infection rates in Africa

Abstract

Objective

We explored factors contributing to the low human MERS-CoV prevalence in Africa by assessing MERS-CoV epidemiological and genomic features.

Methods

We followed the PRISMA guidelines. We searched for articles on epidemiological and virological MERS-CoV characteristics in humans and camels in Africa until August 2025. We used a generalised linear mixed-effects model to calculate pooled proportions. We identified relevant polymorphisms in African MERS-CoV lineages compared with the prototypic EMC/2012 and contemporary Arabian MERS-CoV (clade B5).

Results

We included 53 articles, with 31 used in the meta-analysis. Kenya, Egypt, and Ethiopia contributed to 66.03% of all included studies. Pooled MERS-CoV RNA positivity in African dromedaries was 6.09%, with juveniles (15.29%) having a higher incidence than adults (4.51%). The pooled MERS-CoV seroprevalence was 73.67%, with adults (80.96%) higher than juveniles (36.02%). In human-focused studies, only nine PCR-confirmed MERS cases were reported, six travel-associated and three autochthonous cases, despite a pooled seroprevalence of 2.4%. Genomic analyses identified MERS-CoV clade C-specific polymorphisms in the Spike and accessory genes with putative phenotypic impact.

Conclusion

We found the highest MERS-CoV RNA positivity in young dromedaries. Elevated MERS-CoV seroprevalence in mainly asymptomatic camel-exposed humans suggests an underestimation of MERS-CoV infections in Africa. The ongoing MERS-CoV evolution emphasises the need for active genomic surveillance to monitor signatures of human adaptation.

Source: 

Link: https://www.ijidonline.com/article/S1201-9712(26)00091-3/fulltext

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A stabilized #MERS-CoV #spike ferritin #nanoparticle #vaccine elicits robust and protective neutralizing #antibody responses

 

Abstract

Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) was identified as a human pathogen in 2012 and causes ongoing sporadic infections and outbreak clusters. Despite case fatality rates (CFRs) of over 30% and considerable pandemic potential, a safe and efficacious vaccine has not been developed. Here we report the design, characterization, and preclinical evaluation of MERS-CoV antigens. Our lead candidate comprises a stabilized spike displayed on a self-assembling ferritin nanoparticle that can be produced from a high-expressing, stable cell pool. This vaccine elicits robust MERS-CoV pseudovirus and authentic virus neutralizing antibody titers in BALB/c mice. Immunization of male non-human primates (NHPs) with one dose of Alhydrogel-adjuvanted vaccine elicited a > 103 geometric mean titer of pseudovirus neutralizing antibodies that was boosted with a second dose. Sera from these NHPs exhibited cross-reactivity against spike-pseudotyped lentiviruses from MERS-CoV clades A, B, and C as well as a distant pangolin merbecovirus. In human DPP4 transgenic mice, immunization provided dose-dependent protection against MERS-CoV lethal challenge, and in an established alpaca challenge model using female alpacas, immunization fully protected against MERS-CoV infection. This MERS-CoV nanoparticle vaccine is a promising candidate for clinical advancement to protect at-risk individuals and for future use in a potential outbreak setting.

Source: 

Link: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-026-68458-5

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

 

A fattening duck holding in Bács-Kiskun Region.

Source: 

Link: https://wahis.woah.org/#/in-review/7252

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Detecting #Influenza #H5N1 Viruses through Severe Acute Respiratory #Infection #Surveillance, #Cambodia

 

Abstract

Of 19 human cases of avian influenza A(H5N1) virus infection detected during January 2023–March 2025 in Cambodia, 12 (63%) were detected directly by surveillance for severe acute respiratory infection (SARI) or indirectly by testing ill close contacts. SARI surveillance can supplement other surveillance sources for identifying H5N1 cases.

Source: 

Link: https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/eid/article/32/3/25-0832_article

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#Oropouche virus infects primary #human #intestinal #organoids and is inhibited by type I and III interferon treatment

 

ABSTRACT

Oropouche virus (OROV), a neglected arbovirus, has historically been considered a self-limiting infection associated with febrile illness. However, the recent surge in cases since late 2023 has been marked by atypical outcomes, highlighting its underestimated clinical impact. Gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea have also been reported, but the prevalence and mechanistic insight remain largely elusive. Here, through a meta-analysis of 12 identified clinical studies, we revealed a pooled prevalence of diarrhea as 15% (95% CI, 10%–20%) among the Oropouche patient population. In primary human intestinal organoid-based experimental models, we demonstrated productive infection by both a recent patient isolate (OROV-2024) and a historical strain (Be An19991). This is shown by the accumulation of intracellular OROV RNA, release of infectious particles, and immunostaining of OROV glycoprotein Gc. Interestingly, OROV infection mildly triggered the expression of type III interferons, but this endogenous response was insufficient to limit viral replication. In contrast, exogenous treatment with type I and III interferons strongly inhibited OROV replication, with interferon-alpha completely abolishing infectious virus production. Together, these results suggest the human intestine as a potential target organ for OROV infection and highlight interferons as potential therapeutic candidates.

Source: 

Link: https://journals.asm.org/doi/full/10.1128/mbio.03003-25?af=R

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Genomic #Evolution of #Influenza A Virus During the 2024-2025 Season, the Johns Hopkins Health System: Antigenic Drift Reduces Serum Neutralization

 

Abstract

Introduction

Seasonal influenza causes significant global morbidity, mortality, and economic burden. Ongoing viral evolution can lead to vaccine mismatch and the emergence of antiviral resistance, highlighting the importance of genomic surveillance. The 2024–2025 influenza season was characterized by high incidence and increased hospitalizations.

Methods

We analyzed influenza A virus (IAV) genomes and clinical characteristics from the 2024–2025 season. Whole-genome sequencing was performed on 648 influenza A–positive clinical specimens collected between October 2024 and April 2025.

Results

Hemagglutinin (HA) sequences were recovered from 74.23% (481/648) of samples and used for subtyping and phylogenetic analysis. A(H1N1)pdm09 and A(H3N2) viruses co-circulated, representing 55.5% and 44.5% of cases, respectively. Among A(H1N1)pdm09 viruses, the HA1 substitution T120A, located near the Sa antigenic site, increased more than twofold compared with the prior season. Circulating A(H3N2) viruses belonged to multiple HA subclades and exhibited distinct amino acid substitutions at key antigenic sites. Neutralization assays using sera from individuals vaccinated with the 2024–2025 seasonal influenza vaccine demonstrated reduced neutralization of three dominant A(H1N1)pdm09 isolates and two A(H3N2) isolates compared with vaccine strains, consistent with antigenic drift. In addition, the neuraminidase substitution S247N, previously associated with reduced oseltamivir susceptibility, was detected in 13.9% of A(H1N1)pdm09 samples.

Discussion

These findings demonstrate ongoing antigenic drift and the presence of antiviral resistance–associated mutations during the 2024–2025 influenza season, underscoring the need for continued genomic surveillance to guide vaccine and antiviral strategies.

Source: 

Link: https://academic.oup.com/jid/advance-article/doi/10.1093/infdis/jiag069/8461561#google_vignette

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Post-exposure #prophylaxis with #favipiravir among #household close contacts to confirmed #COVID19 cases: A cluster-randomized trial (PEPfavi)

 

Abstract

Background

Household transmission of SARS-CoV-2 remains a key driver of community spread, with secondary attack rates in Thai households reaching approximately 50 %. There is limited evidence supporting the efficacy of antiviral post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) in this context.

Methods

The phase 2/3, open-label, (1:1) cluster-randomized controlled trial in Thailand, 168 household close contacts from 76 index cases were enrolled to receive either favipiravir-PEP (FPV-PEP) (1600–2000 mg/day for 7 days) or usual care. The efficacy of FPV-PEP was investigated in preventing SARS-CoV-2 infection after contact with index cases.

Results

The incidence of confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection was lower in the FPV-PEP group than in the usual care group (7.32 % vs. 14.47 %), although the difference was not statistically significant. A trend toward fewer early positive rapid diagnostic test results on day 3 was observed in the FPV-PEP group. Symptom development was less frequent among FPV-PEP recipients, with fewer cases of fever, rhinorrhea, and myalgia. A significantly higher probability of remaining asymptomatic and delayed symptom onset was observed in the FPV-PEP group. No participants developed severe COVID-19 or required hospitalization.

Conclusion

FPV-PEP was associated with a lower incidence of fever, rhinorrhea, and myalgia among household contacts. While a reduction in secondary transmission was observed, it did not reach statistical significance. Further large-scale studies are warranted to clarify its role in preventing household transmission.

Source: 

Link: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1876034126000225?via%3Dihub

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Protective Efficacy of a #Hemagglutinin-Based #mRNA #Vaccine Against #H5N1 #Influenza Virus Challenge in Lactating Dairy #Cows

 

Abstract

Highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 virus has spread to over 1,080 dairy farms across 18 states in the United States, resulting in 41 human infections and posing serious risks to both animal and public health. To address these risks, a hemagglutinin-based mRNA–lipid nanoparticle vaccine was developed, and its safety, immunogenicity, and protective efficacy in high-yielding lactating dairy cows were evaluated. The vaccine was well tolerated, had no adverse effects on health or milk production, and induced strong antibody responses. Two weeks after the second immunization, all the immunized cattle were fully protected against a high-dose H5N1 virus challenge. Notably, two-thirds of the cattle were still completely protected even at the 19th week after the first vaccination, when their serum antibody levels were very low. These data demonstrate that the mRNA vaccine confers robust, lasting protection against H5N1 virus in lactating dairy cows, providing a foundation for clinical trials.

Source: 

Link: https://spj.science.org/doi/10.34133/research.1104

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#Antigenic #Drift and Antivaccine Shift in the 2025–2026 #Influenza Season

 

{Summary}

Recent headlines about influenza have reported a “super flu” causing a “record-breaking season” that is “overwhelming hospitals.” Although less dramatic, data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reveal substantial influenza activity: the agency estimated that there were more than 20 million cases of influenza illness, 270,000 influenza-related hospitalizations, and 11,000 deaths from influenza in the United States through January 24, 2026. These numbers aren’t extraordinary as compared with those from previous seasons, but some indicators of influenza activity and severity have been remarkable.

(...)

Source: 

Link: https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMp2600395?query=TOC

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The #impact of clade B #lineage 5 #MERS #coronaviruses #spike #mutations from 2015 to 2023 on virus entry and replication competence

 

Abstract

Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) is an emerging coronavirus that can cause zoonotic disease in humans with lethal severe viral pneumonia. Dromedary camels are the source of zoonotic infection. As of November 2025, MERS-CoV has resulted in a total of 2630 reported cases, 37% of these being fatal. The number of reported human cases has been on a decreasing trend since 2016 and reached a nadir during the COVID-19 pandemic. The reason for the reduction of cases is unclear and may be multifactorial. We hypothesized that mutations accumulating in the virus spike protein may have reduced zoonotic potential. Here, we investigate the impact of recently emerged virus spike-protein mutations on virus replication competence using pseudoviruses and replication-competent recombinant viruses. We found that virus spike variants detected in 2019 and some from 2023 show a reduced cell entry, lower viral replication and reduced fitness in human primary alveolar epithelial cells and multiple cell lines. All the MERS-CoV spikes tested showed a cell-entry pathway preference via the cell-surface TMPRSS2 route. Mechanistically, we showed the V530A mutation in the 2019 spike sequence had a reduced human DPP4 binding phenotype. Our data highlighted MERS-CoV spike mutations can modulate viral fitness in human cells and provide new insights to understand recent MERS epidemiology.

Source: 

Link: https://journals.plos.org/plospathogens/article?id=10.1371/journal.ppat.1013336

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Rapid #Risk #Assessment - #MERS-CoV, Eastern Mediterranean Region (#WHO, Feb. 3 '26, summary)

 

Risk statement  

-- The scope of this Rapid Risk Assessment is to reassess the epidemiological situation of Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) following the recent exportation (in December 2025) of cases from the Arabian Peninsula to France and three healthcare-associated clusters reported by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) in 2024–2025. 

-- These events, together with the continued occurrence of sporadic cases in Arabian Peninsula countries, highlight the ongoing risk of international spread to non-endemic countries and reflect the persistent circulation of MERS-CoV in the Middle East.  

-- Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) is a zoonotic virus transmitted to humans through direct or indirect contact with infected dromedary camels, which are the natural host of the virus. 

-- First identified in humans in 2012 in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) and Jordan, MERS-CoV causes a viral respiratory infection that occurs throughout the year, with cases reported sporadically and in clusters. 

-- Clinical presentation ranges from asymptomatic or mild respiratory illness to severe acute respiratory disease, pneumonia, and death. 

-- The case fatality rate among cases reported to WHO is 37%.    

-- Since MERS-CoV emergence in 2012, until 23 January 2026, under the International Health Regulations (IHR, 2005), 27 countries have reported human cases of MERS-CoV to the WHO: 

- Algeria, 

- Austria, 

- Bahrain, 

- China, 

- Egypt, 

- France, 

- Germany, 

- Greece, 

- the Islamic Republic of Iran, 

- Italy, 

- Jordan, 

- Kuwait, 

- Lebanon, 

- Malaysia, 

- the Netherlands, 

- Oman, 

- the Philippines, 

- Qatar, 

- the Republic of Korea, 

- the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), 

- Thailand, 

- Tunisia, 

- Türkiye, 

- the United Arab Emirates (UAE), 

- the United Kingdom, 

- the United States of America, and 

- Yemen.    

-- However, of the 2635 MERS cases documented globally since 2012, 2418 (92%) were reported from the WHO Eastern Mediterranean Region (EMR). 

-- The majority (84%) of reported cases were notified by KSA (2224/2635) followed by other Arabian Peninsula countries: the UAE (94), Jordan (28), Qatar (28), Oman (26), Iran (6), Kuwait (4), Tunisia (3), Lebanon (2), Bahrain (1), Egypt (1) and Yemen (1).  

-- Exposure was commonly linked to direct or indirect contact with infected dromedary camels or transmission from infected individuals in healthcare settings or households. 

-- Most cases reported outside the Arabian Peninsula countries involved people likely infected there prior to travelling elsewhere.    

-- Following the first human infection with MERS-CoV in 2012, the Director‐General convened an Emergency Committee under the International Health Regulations (IHR 2005) in 2013 to assess whether the outbreaks of MERS constituted a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) and to provide guidance on the public health measures that should be taken.{i}  

-- The Committee has met on 10 occasions and, on each occasion, concluded that the outbreaks do not meet the criteria of a PHEIC.    

-- The overall risk of MERS-CoV in 2023 was assessed as moderate both at the regional and global levels.  

-- A new assessment currently confirms that this risk level remains unchanged, moderate both at the regional and global levels, taking into account the following considerations:  

- 1. Continued reports of sporadic cases in endemic countries in the Arabian Peninsula and the occasional occurrence of traveller cases and healthcare-associated transmission, including two cases reported from France in December 2025 and three clusters reported in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia during 2024–2025. 

- 2. Since the last RRA in 2023, cases reported to WHO have not resulted in sustained onward human-tohuman transmission, as most identified close contacts tested negative and no additional household clusters have been identified. The three healthcare-related clusters remained limited, with infection only confirmed in direct contacts with the index case. 

- 3. The observed decline in reported MERS cases since 2020, in particular during the COVID-19 pandemic emergency phase, is thought to be a result of pandemic-related Infection Prevention & Control measures that also limited human-to-human transmission of MERS-CoV, as well as behavioural changes during the pandemic. Any role of potential cross-reactive immunity from SARS-CoV-2 infection and/ or vaccination remains in need of further investigation. Other hypotheses—such as reduced surveillance, viral attenuation, or decreased circulation in camel populations—are not supported by current evidence. 

- 4. Significant disparities persist globally in countries' capacities to detect and respond effectively to the disease, particularly in regions where the virus has not been previously documented. Within the EMR, six fragile, conflict-affected, and vulnerable countries are considered at greater risk.  

- 5. Global inequalities remain in the adequacy of preparedness, infection prevention and control capacities, and response measures, particularly in the context of a cross-border outbreak or a traveller case.  

- 6. MERS-CoV continues to circulate in dromedary camel populations without causing overt clinical signs, constituting a constant source of human exposure and a risk of zoonotic spillover, which may result in occasional onward human-to-human transmission. The recent detection of Clade B viruses in camels of African origin further highlights the risk of MERS-CoV spread from the Arabian Peninsula via camel movements and poses an additional risk to other regions, particularly given the documented increased replication competence and more efficient viral entry of Clade B compared with Clade C. 

- 7. Preliminary data from in vitro growth kinetics and partial sequencing indicate no major attenuation in circulating Clade B strains. 

- 8. The potential public health impact of MERS-CoV should not be underestimated given the severity of disease and its high reported case fatality rate (CFR), even though sustained global spread is currently considered unlikely.  

- 9. MERS-CoV can cause severe disease resulting in high mortality. The current CFR of 37% is based on laboratory-confirmed cases only and may therefore overestimate of the true mortality rate.  

- 10. Existing regional and global surveillance systems may fail to detect asymptomatic and mild cases of MERS, leading to underreporting.  

- 11. Limited and non-sustained human-to-human transmission has been documented, mainly in healthcare and household settings. However, due to limited research, data gaps remain in understanding transmission dynamics, including the role of environmental contaminations, asymptomatic cases and specific exposure risk in healthcare settings. Further research is needed to better understand zoonotic transmission associated with dromedary camel products and excreta.  

- 12. Due to the similarity of symptoms with other respiratory diseases that are widely circulating, like influenza or COVID-19, detection and diagnosis of MERS cases may be delayed, especially in unaffected countries, creating opportunity for local onward transmission.  

- 13. Should MERS-CoV result in a healthcare-associated outbreak in a previously unaffected country, as occurred in the Republic of Korea in May 2015, during which 186 laboratory-confirmed cases (185 in the Republic of Korea and 1 in China) and 38 deaths were reported, the public health consequences for that country could be substantial.  

- 14. The recent exportation of cases from the Arabian Peninsula to France demonstrates the ongoing risk of international spread. 

(...)

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{1} Confidence refers to the level of confidence in the data/information or the quality of the evidence available at the time the RRA is conducted. Poor quality information may increase the overall perceived risk due to the incertitude in the assessment 

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Source: 

Link: https://www.who.int/publications/m/item/who-rapid-risk-assessment-mers-cov--eastern-mediterranean-region-v.2

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