Membrane-anchored #influenza #neuraminidase vaccine drives #human-like broadly protective B cell responses

 

Abstract

Influenza neuraminidase (NA) is a promising target for universal flu vaccines, yet eliciting potent B-cell responses against its conserved epitopes remains challenging. Here, we developed a membrane-anchored, folding-domain-free NA (mNA) that elicited superior head-specific germinal center B cell and antibody responses compared to soluble tetrameric NA. In non-human primates, mNA immunization induced cross-reactive memory B cell (MBC) responses, expanding clones with the conserved DR motif in HCDR3, a hallmark of human broadly reactive NA antibodies. These MBCs conferred cross-inhibitory activity against diverse NA variants and in vivo cross-protection. Cryo-EM analysis revealed that the 554-C2 clone targets the conserved enzymatic pocket via the DR motif, while the 554-C1 clone recognizes previously uncharacterized epitopes at the interface between two adjacent N2 monomers, effectively reducing plaque formation by contemporary H3N2 strains. Our findings highlight the immunological advantages of membrane-anchoring, providing a robust strategy for designing next-generation vaccines against influenza and other pathogens.

Competing Interest Statement

Westlake University has filed for patent protection for mNA used as an influenza vaccine.

Funder Information Declared

State Key Laboratory of Gene Expression, SKLGE-ZX-2025007

Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory Construction Project, 2024ZY01026, 2024E10060, 2024E10052

Natural Science Foundation of Zhejiang province, LR26H190001

National Natural Science Foundation of China, 82471855, 825B2062, 82330054, 82502209, 32471303

Source: 

Link: https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.64898/2026.05.13.724804v1

____

A Panel of #Human Monoclonal #Antibodies for Tracking the #Antigenic #Evolution of #Influenza #H5N1 Clade 2.3.4.4b

 

Abstract

The ongoing panzootic of clade 2.3.4.4b H5N1 influenza has resulted in widespread infection of birds, mammals, and livestock, underscoring the need for tools to interpret its real-time evolution. Here, we describe the isolation and characterization of a panel of 19 human monoclonal antibodies that potently neutralize current isolates. Competition immunoassays and cryo-electron microscopy analyses revealed their collective near-complete epitope coverage of the H5-hemagglutinin surface. Neutralization profiling across multiple historical and contemporary H5 viruses defined their epitope-specific patterns of virus neutralization. One cluster of antibodies potently neutralized only clade 2.3.4.4b viruses, while many others exhibited broadly neutralizing activity against diverse H5N1 clades. Application of this structurally calibrated antibody panel to recent North American human isolates revealed genotype-specific antigenic divergence between lineages that have spread among cattle (B3.13) and poultry (D1.1). Together, the findings of this study establish a structurally grounded antibody reference panel spanning major vulnerable sites of H5 hemagglutinin and provide a toolbox for interpreting emergent mutations, monitoring ongoing antigenic drift, and anticipating the evolutionary trajectory of circulating H5N1 influenza viruses.

Competing Interest Statement

H.H., M.W., S.C., J.Y., Y.H., Y.G., and D.D.H. are inventors on the provisional patent application filed by Regeneron for several H5N1 neutralizing antibodies described herein. D.D.H. is a co-founder of TaiMed Biologics and RenBio, consultant to Brii Biosciences, and board director for Vicarious Surgical.

Funder Information Declared

Gates Foundation, INV019355

Source: 

Link: https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.64898/2026.05.14.725215v1

____

#US State of #Washington health officials assisting with #hantavirus #investigations involving two different virus #strains in two separate events (Dept. of Health, May 16 '26)

 

Risk of hantavirus to the public remains very low

    OLYMPIA – The Washington State Department of Health (DOH) is working with local and federal partners on two separate hantavirus-related investigations. 

    One investigation involves individuals potentially exposed to cases linked to the MV Hondius cruise ship outbreak, while the other involves a hantavirus infection unrelated to the cruise ship. 

    The cases involve different virus strains and exposure circumstances and are not connected.

    Hantaviruses are a group of viruses carried by different rodent species. 

    Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS) is a rare but serious disease caused by exposure to infected rodents or their droppings, urine, or saliva. 

    About one out of three people diagnosed with HPS have died. 

    The risk of contracting any strain of hantavirus remains very low.

Investigation 1: Andes virus exposure monitoring in Washington

    Earlier this week, Public Health – Seattle & King County announced monitoring of three King County residents who were potentially exposed to the Andes strain of hantavirus linked to the MV Hondius cruise ship. 

    Two individuals were exposed during an international flight by a passenger who was later diagnosed with Andes virus, and one individual was exposed on the cruise ship. 

    All three people are currently asymptomatic. 

    Potentially exposed people are monitored for 42 days after their last exposure to a person infected with the Andes virus.

    Additionally, CDC has notified DOH of three additional Washington residents who were on the same international flight as two of the King County individuals and are considered to have low-risk exposures. 

    One individual is a King County resident. 

    The other two residents live in Eastern Washington. 

    DOH is not releasing further details to protect individual privacy. Out of an abundance of caution, local health jurisdictions are reaching out to these individuals to assess exposure and monitor them for symptoms.

    Andes virus is a type of hantavirus spread by rodents in South America. The rodents that carry the virus have not been found in the United States. In rare cases, Andes virus can spread from person to person, typically through prolonged, close contact with someone who is ill. No cases of Andes virus have been reported among Washington residents.

    Local health jurisdictions are in     regular contact with impacted residents to monitor for symptoms during the 42-day incubation period associated with Andes virus.

Investigation 2: Sin Nombre virus hantavirus pulmonary syndrome case in Chelan County

    Today Chelan-Douglas Health District reported the first case of Sin Nombre virus hantavirus in Washington state this year. This case is not connected to the MV Hondius cruise ship outbreak, which was caused by a different type of hantavirus.

    Sin Nombre virus-infected deer mice are found throughout Washington. Infected deer mice can spread the virus through urine, saliva, and droppings. People can become infected by breathing contaminated dust when disturbing rodent droppings, urine, nests, or nesting materials, particularly in enclosed or rodent-infested spaces. Less commonly, people can be infected by touching contaminated objects and touching their eyes, nose, or mouth, or by being bitten or scratched by an infected rodent.

    Any activity that puts you in contact with deer mouse droppings, urine, saliva, or nesting materials can place you at risk for infection. For information on how to safely clean areas where rodents may be present, DOH recommends the following guidance.

    DOH has tracked hantavirus cases since 1994. The state typically reports one to five Sin Nombre hantavirus cases each year. Unlike Andes virus, Sin Nombre virus does not spread from person to person.

    The risk to the public from any hantavirus is very low because: 

        - Sin Nombre virus infections can be prevented by avoiding contact with rodents and rodent-infested areas and using wet-cleaning methods when cleaning rodent droppings, dead or trapped rodents, or nesting materials.

        - Andes virus person-to-person transmission can be limited through early identification of cases and monitoring of close contacts.

    Visit DOH's website for additional information on Hantavirus.

    Our website is your source for a healthy dose of information. Get updates by following us on social media.

Source: 

Link: https://doh.wa.gov/newsroom/washington-health-officials-assisting-hantavirus-investigations-involving-two-different-virus

____

#UK Health Security Agency #update on the #hantavirus #outbreak (May 15 '26)

 

Latest update

    -- The UK government continues to work with the NHS, local authorities and UK Overseas Territories in response to the hantavirus outbreak. 

    -- UKHSA and NHS staff have been closely monitoring those currently at Arrowe Park and those isolating at home to provide them with all necessary support.   

    -- As part of the outbreak response, UKHSA has deployed a rapid response mobile laboratory to the British Overseas Territory of St Helena.   

    -- Three members of the UK Public Health Rapid Support Team (UK-PHRST), a partnership between UKHSA and London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, funded with UK aid by the Department of Health and Social Care, have been deployed with the laboratory in response to a request for support from the St Helena Government.   

    -- This includes 2 microbiologists who will provide PCR testing for hantavirus on the island, as well as supporting local testing to exclude other conditions. 

    -- An infection prevention and control (IPC) expert will also support Jamestown General Hospital to prepare and respond to any potential cases, providing IPC assessments and training.   

    -- Dr Edmund Newman, Director of the UK Public Health Rapid Support Team, said: 

        ''This deployment reflects UKHSA’s commitment to responding rapidly to health threats wherever they emerge and to supporting our international partners in protecting public health globally. 

        ''Our teams continue to work closely with all those affected by this outbreak, both in the UK and overseas, to ensure all necessary support is in place. The risk to the general public remains very low. 

    -- Further information on the rapid response mobile laboratory can be found in the recent blog from UKHSA.

Source: 

Link: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/ukhsa-update-on-the-hantavirus-cruise-ship-outbreak

____

Rapid #scientific #advice on IPC measures for patients in #healthcare settings with #Andes virus (ANDV) disease In the context of the M/V Hondius cruise ship outbreak (ECDC, 15 May 2026, summary)

 

Key messages  

    -- This document aims to provide advice on infection prevention and control (IPC) measures for healthcare facilities providing care to patients with suspected or confirmed ANDV disease.  

    -- The advice is an update of previous recommendations in the ‘Threat Assessment Brief: Hantavirus-associated cluster of illness on a cruise ship: ECDC assessment and recommendations, of 6 May 2026’ and the ‘Rapid Scientific Advice on the management of passengers in the context of the Andes virus outbreak on the cruise ship M/V Hondius, of 9 May 2026’, with a focus on the application of IPC measures in healthcare facilities [1,2].  

    -- ECDC rapid scientific advice disclosure statement: 

        - ECDC issues rapid scientific advice to meet an emergent or urgent public health need or to quickly reply to external requests. 

    - To accommodate the accelerated timeline, the process and methods used for the development of rapid scientific advice may be modified from those of standard assessments and recommendations. 

    - Potential limitations are described in the document. 

(...)

Source: 

Link: https://www.ecdc.europa.eu/en/publications-data/rapid-scientific-advice-infection-prevention-and-control-measures-patients

____

#DRC confirms new #Ebola #outbreak, #WHO scales up support (#WHO Regional Office for Africa, May 15 '26)

 

    Kinshasa/Brazzaville — The World Health Organization (WHO) is rapidly scaling up support to the Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo following confirmation of an outbreak of Ebola Bundibugyo in the country’s north-eastern Ituri Province.  

    Laboratory analysis conducted by the National Institute of Biomedical Research (INRB), the country’s reference laboratory in the capital Kinshasa, confirmed the Ebola outbreak caused by the Bundibugyo species in 13 of 20 samples collected from suspected cases linked to a cluster of severe illness and deaths reported in  Mongbwalu  and  Rwampara health zones in Ituri  Province.

     The Bundibugyo species was first identified in 2007 in Bundibugyo district in western Uganda, during which 131 cases were reported with 42 deaths (case fatality rate of 32%).  

    In the current outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, a total of 67 community deaths suspected to be due to Ebola Bundibugyo have been reported so far. 

    Patients presented with symptoms including fever, generalized body pain, weakness, vomiting and, in some cases, bleeding. 

    Several cases deteriorated rapidly and died. 

    Given the uncertainties and severity of the illness, there is  concern about the scale of transmission in affected communities.  

    A WHO mission including the WHO representative, the emergency preparedness and response team had already been deployed in Ituri  to support the provincial authorities with investigations that led to the confirmation of the outbreak in the two health zones.

     The team is also working with the national and provincial health authorities to strengthen outbreak control measures and prevent further spread of the virus.

     National authorities have activated emergency coordination mechanisms and deployed additional multidisciplinary rapid response teams to affected areas.  

    Additional WHO experts in epidemiology, infection prevention and control, laboratory diagnostics, clinical care, logistics, risk communication and community engagement are being mobilized to reinforce the frontline response. 

    Priority actions include strengthening disease surveillance, active case finding, contact tracing, infection prevention and control in health facilities, expanding access to safe care, laboratory testing capacity, ensuring safe burials and community sensitization to prevent further spread of the disease.    

    “The Democratic Republic of the Congo has extensive experience responding to Ebola outbreaks, and WHO is rapidly scaling up support to the ongoing response,” said Dr Mohamed Janabi, WHO Regional Director for Africa. 

    "Working closely with national authorities and partners, we are mobilizing swiftly, deploying additional expertise and resources to halt the spread of the virus, protect and save lives.”  

    WHO is airlifting 5 metric tonnes of supplies, including infection prevention and control, materials, laboratory sample transportation equipment, case management, tents and other supplies currently available in Kinshasa to Bunia to support frontline health workers and treatment facilities.    

    The outbreak is affecting areas that present significant operational challenges, including urban areas with intense population movements associated with mining activities, insecurity, and frequent cross- border movement—all of which increase the risk of further transmission.  

    In neighbouring Uganda, the Ministry of Health confirmed Ebola Bundibugyo in a patient from the Democratic Republic of the Congo who was being treated at a health facility but later died. 

    Ugandan health authorities have activated outbreak control measures, including disease surveillance, screening and response readiness.  

    This marks the 17th recorded outbreak of Ebola disease in the Democratic Republic of the Congo since the virus was first identified in 1976 in Yambuku, in Equateur Province. 

    The last one was an outbreak of Ebola virus disease that ended in December 2025.  

    Ebola disease is a severe and often fatal illness transmitted through direct contact with the blood, secretions, organs or other bodily fluids of infected people, as well as contaminated surfaces and materials. 

    Early detection, supportive treatment and rapid public health measures significantly improve survival and are critical to stopping transmission.

Source: 

Link: https://www.afro.who.int/countries/democratic-republic-of-congo/news/democratic-republic-congo-confirms-new-ebola-outbreak-who-scales-upsupport

____

#WHO DG's opening #remarks at the media #briefing – 15 May 2026 (about #Ebola in #DRC and #Andes Virus #Outbreak, edited)

 

{Edited}

    Good morning, good afternoon and good evening,

    Today, I had a call with the Minister of Health of the Democratic Republic of the Congo concerning the new outbreak of Ebola disease in the country’s north-eastern Ituri Province. 

    Currently, WHO is aware that 13 cases of Ebola have been confirmed by the L'Institut National de Recherche Biomédicale, I.N.R.B., in Kinshasa. 

    On the fifth of May, WHO received a signal of suspected cases and sent a team to Ituri to support DRC health officials in their investigation of the outbreak and collect samples in the field, which initially tested negative for Ebola. 

    Samples were subsequently sent to I.N.R.B., which yesterday confirmed some as positive for Ebola. 

    This is the 17th recorded Ebola outbreak in DRC since the virus was first identified in 1976. DRC has a strong track record in Ebola response and control, and I have also assured the Minister of our full support. 

    The World Health Organization’s Representative to DRC, and other WHO experts, are in Ituri and working side-by-side with DRC health authorities to respond to, and contain the outbreak. 

    Additional WHO experts in risk communication and community engagement, infection prevention and control, clinical care and logistics will join the WHO team already on the ground in coming days. 

    We have deployed medical supplies and protective equipment for infection prevention and control to Bunia, the Ituri provincial capital. 

    Today, I have released US$ 500 000  from WHO’s Contingency Fund for Emergencies to immediately support the response. 

    Priority actions include: 

        ° risk communication and community engagement, 

        ° strengthening disease surveillance, 

        ° active case finding and contact tracing, 

        ° infection prevention and control in health facilities, 

        ° expanding access to safe clinical care, and increasing laboratory testing capacity.   

    WHO will continue working to support the Democratic Republic of the Congo to bring this Ebola outbreak under control, and will deploy resources, and work with and mobilize partners across the region, to contain its spread and care for those affected. 

    The outbreak is a reminder of the persistent threat to human health of disease outbreaks, and the importance of cooperation and solidarity to continually strengthen global health security.

    The response to the hantavirus outbreak is a recent, prime example of what can happen when the world comes together to confront a disease threat. 

    Yesterday, I wrote again to the people of Tenerife to thank them for the solidarity they showed to the passengers and crew of the MV Hondius affected by the hantavirus outbreak.

    WHO worked together with approximately 30 governments, the ship’s captain, crew and passengers, the cruise ship operator and, crucially, the people of Tenerife to manage this crisis.

    This show of support from Tenerife will not be forgotten. 

    Today, I hope the rest of world is inspired by the spirit of the Tenerife and Spanish people.

    At a time of great division, tension and uncertainty, we must respond jointly to common challenges that our global community faces, in the spirit of cooperation.

    For as we at WHO always say, solidarity is the best immunity. 

    I am pleased to report that the operation to transfer the ship’s passengers from Tenerife has been successfully completed, with more than 120 people now being cared for in their home countries, or quarantined in host countries enroute to their final destination.

    Captain Jan Dobrogowski and his 26-member crew are still onboard the MV Hondius and are expected to dock in the Netherlands on Monday. 

    I remain in regular contact with Captain Jan and again salute him and his crew for their dedication to their passengers, and each other.  He has informed me that there are still no symptomatic persons on board as of today. 

    WHO repeats that the risk from this event to the global population is low, and we will continue to issue updates as needed. 

    As of today, a total of 10 cases, including three deaths, have been reported to WHO, including eight people who were laboratory-confirmed for Andes virus infection and two probable. There have been no further deaths reported since the second of May. 

    Because of the long incubation period of up to 6 weeks, more cases may be reported in coming days as passengers return to their countries, where they are being quarantined and tested in specialized facilities or at home. 

    This does not mean the outbreak is expanding; it shows that the control measures are working, that laboratory testing is ongoing, and that people are being cared for with support from their governments. 

    It is incredible to think that it was less than two weeks ago, on the second of May, that WHO was first notified by the United Kingdom, through channels established under the International Health Regulations, of an unknown respiratory disease onboard the ship.  

    WHO immediately convened affected countries, shared information with all Member States, worked with the governments in Cabo Verde, Spain, the Netherlands and beyond, to coordinate the medical evacuation of sick patients and repatriation of passengers and crew. 

    WHO rapidly developed and shared technical guidance for the disembarkation of the people on board and their repatriation home, for quarantine and follow up. 

    WHO continues to coordinate the global response and our work is not finished. 

    Our current priorities are to continue actively following up on the status of confirmed and suspected cases; to continue to better understand the epidemiology of Andes hantavirus, including how this outbreak began and spread; and to foster scientific collaboration for optimal clinical care of patients infected with this virus.  

    In addition, we are working with more than 20 countries to coordinate studies to better understand the natural history of the disease. 

    Today, an open scientific consultation on Andes virus medical countermeasures was convened by the UK Health Security Agency, and supported by the WHO R&D Blueprint, to identify gaps, improve coordination and establish priorities for research and development into potential hantavirus therapeutics and vaccines. 

    The importance of vaccines for protecting health cannot be underestimated. 

(...)

Thank you and Tarik, back to you.

Source: 

Link: https://www.who.int/news-room/speeches/item/who-director-general-s-opening-remarks-at-the-media-briefing---15-may-2026

____

#USA, #Wastewater Data for Avian #Influenza #H5 (CDC, May 15 '26)

 

{Excerpt}

(...)

Time Period: May 03, 2026 - May 09, 2026

-- A(H5) Detection: 6 site(s) (1.4%)

-- No Detection: 416 site(s) (98.6%)

-- No samples: 118 site(s)

{Click on Image to Enlarge}

(...)

Source: 

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

____

#Andes #hantavirus #outbreak - multi-country, 15 May 2026 (#ECDC, edited): No New Cases since last update

 

    ECDC was notified on 2 May 2026 of a cluster of severe respiratory illness on MV Hondius, a Dutch-flagged cruise ship with passengers and crew from 23 countries, including nine EU/EEA countries. 

    The virus has been identified as Andes hantavirus.

    As of 15 May, a total of eleven cases have been reported, including eight confirmed, two probable, and one inconclusive. 

    No new cases or deaths have been reported since the previous update. 

    The risk to the EU/EEA general population remains very low.

___

    -- Confirmed cases***: 8

    -- Probable cases**: 2

    -- Suspected cases*: 0

    -- Inconclusive cases****: 1

    -- Number of deaths: 3

Notes

{*} A suspected case is a person who has been on or visited the same transport (e.g. ship or plane) where a confirmed or probable Andes hantavirus (ANDV) case was present, 

    - OR - 

has been in contact with a passenger or crew member of the MV Hondius since 5 April, 

    - AND - 

has a fever (currently or recently), plus at least one of the following symptoms: 

        ° muscle aches

        ° chills

        ° headache

        ° stomach problems (such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, or abdominal pain)

        ° breathing problems (such as cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, or difficulty breathing)

{**} A probable case is a person who has the symptoms listed above, and is known to have been in contact with a confirmed or probable ANDV case

{***} A confirmed case is a person who meets the suspected or probable case definition, and has a laboratory test that confirms ANDV infection (PCR or antibody test)

{****} An inconclusive case means awaiting further laboratory investigations.

Non-case: A non-case is a person who was initially considered a suspected or probable case, but tests negative for ANDV using laboratory tests (PCR or antibody test).

Source: 

Link: https://www.ecdc.europa.eu/en/infectious-disease-topics/hantavirus-infection/surveillance-and-updates/andes-hantavirus-outbreak

____

#Taiwan CDC stated that a New Zealand #passenger from the MV Hondius international cruise #ship tested negative for #Hantavirus (May 15 '26)

 

Release Date: 2026-05-15

    The Taiwan Centers for Disease Control (CDC) announced today (May 15) that New Zealand notified Taiwan through the International Health Regulations (IHR) window on May 13, 2026, that a New Zealand passenger who had traveled on the MV Hondius international cruise ship in April was currently staying in Taiwan but had no related symptoms. 

    The CDC immediately initiated contact tracing, assigned an epidemiologist to contact the passenger, and arranged for the passenger to go to the hospital for testing and observation on the same day. 

    After testing blood, urine, saliva, and nasopharyngeal samples, the results yesterday (May 14) showed that the Hantavirus Andean PCR and serum IgM and IgG antibodies were all negative, temporarily ruling out infection.

    The CDC explained that the passenger disembarked on Saint Helena Island on April 24, and the last exposure day with other passengers was April 25. 

    The passenger entered Taiwan on May 7 and stated that he has not experienced any physical discomfort or health abnormalities to date. 

    To respond prudently and appropriately to this incident, the Taiwan Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has taken preventative measures in accordance with professional guidelines from the World Health Organization (WHO), the European Union CDC, and the US CDC. 

    Today, an expert consultation meeting was held to discuss relevant prevention and control measures for suspected Hantavirus Andean strain cases. 

    Based on a comprehensive review of expert recommendations, and considering the passenger's status as a high-risk contact, the passenger has been placed in a single-room hospital room under the guidance of a medical team for "enhanced self-health management" until June 6th (the maximum incubation period is 42 days from the last exposure date of April 25th). 

    The passenger is required to monitor their health daily by taking their temperature and to maintain good respiratory and hand hygiene. 

    Taiwan has notified the WHO of the passenger's situation through the IHR window and has also proactively contacted the New Zealand representative office in Taiwan to provide necessary assistance. 

    Weekly testing is planned until the enhanced self-health management period ends.

    The CDC emphasizes that the passenger's test results are negative, ruling out infection. 

    The enhanced self-health management in the hospital poses no risk to the domestic community. 

    The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) will continue to work with the WHO and the New Zealand government to properly handle all aspects of the response measures taken during this passenger's stay in Singapore. Singaporeans can rest assured.

Source: 

Link: https://www.cdc.gov.tw/Bulletin/Detail/ha-3nLqyde9OMTNCgEiORQ?typeid=9

____

#UK Health Security Agency #update on the #hantavirus multi-country #outbreak (May 14 '26, Edited)

 

Latest update

    -- Yesterday, UKHSA confirmed that 6 individuals from Arrowe Park had returned home, or to other suitable accommodation, to complete their 45 day isolation period. 

    -- A further individual is leaving Arrowe Park today, who will complete their 45 day isolation period at home after a clinical and public health assessment confirmed it was safe for them to do so.

    -- Working closely with FCDO and UK overseas territories, UKHSA is also supporting the relocation of 9 asymptomatic people from the UK overseas territories of St Helena and Ascension Island. 

    -- These people will be brought to the UK to complete their self-isolation as a precautionary measure. 

    -- This will ensure they can be provided with the best possible support from England’s High Consequence infectious disease network should they become unwell. 

    -- They are expected to arrive in the UK on Sunday and will be transferred to Arrowe Park where they will be closely monitored and offered all necessary support. 

    -- The chartered flight will operate under strict infection prevention and control measures and medical checks will be carried out before the flight to ensure passengers are asymptomatic.

    -- One contact, a medic on Ascension Island who developed symptoms, will be medically evacuated to the UK separately for specialist assessment in the UK and they will be cared for at a High Consequence Infectious Disease Unit in the South of England as a highly precautionary measure. 

    -- Their samples were taken to the UK on 8 May and tested negative. 

    -- We continue to work closely with the FCDO to provide support to UK Overseas Territories.

    Dr William Welfare, Director Health Protection in Regions at UKHSA, said:

    ''UKHSA continues to work with FCDO, DHSC and NHS colleagues on the repatriation of British nationals currently isolating on St Helena and Ascension Island. We expect the flight to land on Sunday, with all individuals then safely transported to Arrowe Park where they will receive clinical assessment testing and follow up.

    ''We would like to thank those who remain in isolation at Arrowe Park, as well as those now self-isolating at home, for their cooperation and we’re pleased to see further people heading home today to continue their self-isolation. Our teams will continue to work closely with all those affected by this outbreak, ensuring everyone has the necessary support in place.

    -- The risk to the general public remains very low.

Source: 

Link: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/ukhsa-update-on-the-hantavirus-cruise-ship-outbreak

____

#Reassortant High Pathogenicity Avian #Influenza #H5N1 Viruses During the Reemergence in #Uruguay Suggest Increasing #Genetic Diversity in South #America

 

Abstract

Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 viruses of the goose/Guangdong (Gs/GD) lineage have driven a global panzootic since 2020, with clade 2.3.4.4b establishing sustained transmission in wild birds. In South America, early outbreaks were largely associated with the North American-derived B3.2 genotype, which showed limited diversification after its introduction. Here, we report the genomic characterization of eight H5N1 viruses detected in Uruguay during the reemergence of avian influenza in February–March 2026. Complete genomes were obtained from wild birds exhibiting neurological signs, predominantly Coscoroba coscoroba. All viruses belong to clade 2.3.4.4b but exhibit a reassortant genomic constellation distinct from B3.2. The HA, NA, and MP segments retain the Eurasian backbone, whereas internal genes derive from both South American and North American low-pathogenicity avian influenza lineages. PB2 variation distinguishes two closely related viral groups differing in PB2 origin, whereas the remaining genomic segments retain a shared background. Sequence variation in the neuraminidase gene reduced the sensitivity of a widely used N1-specific RT-qPCR assay, highlighting limitations of existing diagnostic tools during viral evolution. These findings confirm the presence of reassortant H5N1 viruses in Uruguay and, together with recent reports from Argentina and Brazil, support an emerging pattern of genomic diversification in southern South America.

Source: 

Link: https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4915/18/5/558

____

#Diagnostic and #clinical #challenges of #hantavirus-associated acute #kidney injury

 

Abstract

Introduction: 

Hantavirus infection is an uncommon zoonosis in Europe but remains an important cause of acute kidney injury, particularly in patients with environmental exposure to rodents. Renal involvement is the hallmark of the disease, although pulmonary manifestations may coexist and mimic immune-mediated pulmonary–renal syndromes, leading to diagnostic challenges in internal medicine.

Case description: 

A 46-year-old previously healthy man living in a rural area was admitted for acute febrile illness with asthenia and myalgia. Initial investigations revealed severe thrombocytopenia and acute kidney injury with proteinuria and microscopic haematuria. A computed tomography scan of the chest and abdomen showed bilateral pulmonary abnormalities, consistent with an acute pulmonary–renal syndrome. Extensive immunological and infectious investigations excluded autoimmune disease and alternative infectious causes. Hantavirus infection was confirmed by positive IgM and IgG serology, with molecular identification of Puumala virus. Renal biopsy demonstrated moderate acute tubular necrosis with minimal interstitial inflammation and preserved glomeruli. The patient was treated with supportive care only, resulting in rapid clinical improvement and complete recovery of renal function.

Conclusion: 

Hantavirus infection should be considered in patients presenting with acute pulmonary–renal syndrome, thrombocytopenia, and compatible epidemiological exposure. Early diagnosis allows appropriate supportive management, avoids unnecessary immunosuppressive therapy, and is associated with an excellent renal prognosis in Puumala virus infection.

Source: 

Link: https://www.ejcrim.com/index.php/EJCRIM/article/view/6159

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#Advice on laboratory #testing of #Andes virus (ANDV) for high-risk #contacts under the MV Hondius #outbreak, 14 May 2026 (ECDC, summary)

 

Scope of this document

    This document provides practical considerations for public health authorities in European Union/European Economic Area (EU/EEA) countries on laboratory testing for Andes virus (ANDV), with a focus on asymptomatic high-risk contacts of cases from the cruise ship MV Hondius [1].  

    The aim of this document is to support informed decision-making around testing, with a focus on the potential benefits, limitations and consequences of testing asymptomatic high-risk contacts, based on the available scientific evidence. 

    This document does not prescribe a single approach and is intended to help national public health authorities decide if, when, and how laboratory testing could be used in this context, considering the local epidemiological situation, resources and public health policies. 

    This document complements case finding and contact tracing activities as well as guidelines on contact management [1], and assumes regular and active symptom monitoring. 

    In this document, ECDC provides the following support to countries in the decision-making process: 

        • Recommendations for testing symptomatic and asymptomatic contacts; 

        • Advantages and disadvantages of PCR testing for ANDV in asymptomatic high-risk contacts from the MV Hondius outbreak; 

        • A decision tree with more information on the testing strategy proposed. 

Recommendations for testing symptomatic and asymptomatic contacts 

    In this document, Day 0 refers to the date of last known possible exposure to ANDV. 

    For cruise ship passengers and crew who disembarked in Tenerife, this is defined as 10 May 2026. 

    For others, the last known date of possible exposure (Day 0) may differ between individuals depending on their specific exposure history (e.g. passengers and crew who disembarked at different locations or subsequent close contacts). 

    The quarantine period starts on Day 0 and lasts six weeks. 

Symptomatic contacts: 

    We recommend testing symptomatic contacts as soon as possible after the onset of symptoms, combined with active monitoring during the six-week quarantine period, as this remains the most evidence-based approach.  

Asymptomatic contacts: 

    Testing asymptomatic contacts for ANDV can in some cases detect infection before symptom onset, but the results do not predict infectiousness or disease progression. 

    Asymptomatic testing can be considered if resources allow, providing the results are interpreted cautiously and communicated to patients clearly. 

    Testing asymptomatic contacts in the context of the ANDV disease outbreak on the MV Hondius could provide data on the timing from testing positive to developing symptoms. 

    If repeat testing is offered, data on peak viral load, viral clearance, seroconversion and potentially other findings, depending on the research protocols, can also be collected. 

    These data could support the risk assessment in subsequent outbreaks.  

(...)

Suggested citation: European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control. Advice on laboratory testing of Andes virus (ANDV) for high-risk contacts under the MV Hondius outbreak – 14 May 2026. Stockholm: ECDC; 2026. 

Source: 

Link: https://www.ecdc.europa.eu/en/publications-data/advice-laboratory-testing-andes-virus-andv-high-risk-contacts-under-mv-hondius

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#Andes #hantavirus multi-country #outbreak, 14 May 2026 Update (ECDC, edited)

 

    ECDC was notified on 2 May 2026 of a cluster of severe respiratory illness on MV Hondius, a Dutch-flagged cruise ship with passengers and crew from 23 countries, including nine EU/EEA countries. The virus has been identified as Andes hantavirus.

    As of 14 May, a total of eleven cases have been reported, including eight confirmed, two probable, and one inconclusive. 

    No new cases or deaths have been reported since the previous update. 

    The risk to the EU/EEA general population remains very low.

___

    ° Confirmed cases***: 8

    ° Probable cases**: 2

    ° Suspected cases*: 0

    ° Inconclusive cases****: 1

    ° Number of deaths: 3

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{*} A suspected case is a person who:

    - Has been on or visited the same transport (e.g. ship or plane) where a confirmed or probable Andes hantavirus (ANDV) case was present, 

    - OR - 

    - Has been in contact with a passenger or crew member of the MV Hondius since 5 April,

    - AND - 

        ° Has a fever (currently or recently),

        ° Plus at  least one of the following symptoms: 

            - muscle aches

            - chills

            - headache

            -stomach problems (such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, or abdominal pain)

            - breathing problems (such as cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, or difficulty breathing)

{**} A probable case is a person who:

    ° Has the symptoms listed above, 

    - and - 

    ° Is known to have been in contact with a confirmed or probable ANDV case

{***} A confirmed case is a person who:

    ° Meets the suspected or probable case definition, 

    - and -

    ° Has a laboratory test that confirms ANDV infection (PCR or antibody test)

{****} An inconclusive case means awaiting further laboratory investigations.

Non-case: A non-case is a person who was initially considered a suspected or probable case, but tests negative for ANDV using laboratory tests (PCR or antibody test).

Source: 

Link: https://www.ecdc.europa.eu/en/infectious-disease-topics/hantavirus-infection/surveillance-and-updates/andes-hantavirus-outbreak

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Concurrent #Detection of #Swine-Origin #Influenza #H1N1 Virus in #Pigs and #Farmer, #Switzerland

 

Abstract

We report zoonotic transmission of Eurasian avian-like swine influenza A(H1N1) virus from pigs to a farmer. The pigs and farmer experienced influenza-like illness. Whole-genome sequencing revealed >99.9% isolate sequence identity between hosts. Our findings highlight the risk posed by enzootic swine influenza A virus and the need for genomic and epidemiologic surveillance.

Source: 

Link: https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/eid/article/32/6/25-1487_article

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#USA, #Andes #Hantavirus Update: No Cases in #California (Dept. of Health, May 14 '26)

 

May 13, 2026​ | NR26-020

One additional Californian with possible exposure, no cases of Andes hantavirus disease in the state ​

    SACRAMENTO – The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has notified the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) of a fifth California resident with potential exposure to Andes hantavirus as a result of the outbreak aboard the MV Hondius cruise ship. 

    This individual disembarked the MV Hondius before the outbreak was identified, returned briefly to California and left for additional travel also before the outbreak was identified. 

    The individual is currently in the Pitcairn Islands, a British Overseas Territory in the South Pacific. Their health is being monitored by the CDC, in coordination with British health officials, and they remain asymptomatic. 

Andes Hantavirus Investigation in California 

    There are currently no reported cases of Andes hantavirus disease in California or in California residents, nor in United States residents.  ​

    In total, there are now five possibly exposed Californians undergoing monitoring for their health status. 

    In addition to the person in the Pitcairn Islands, two individuals are in California in Santa Clara and Sacramento counties, and two are in the National Quarantine Unit at the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) in Omaha, Nebraska. 

    At this time, CDPH does not have additional information to share regarding the two Californians in Nebraska, including when they will return to the state. 

    Currently, to our knowledge, all five individuals undergoing public health monitoring do not have any symptoms of illness from hantavirus, and the two individuals in California are in close contact with local public health officials to assure they remain healthy and following public health direction to limit interaction with others.    ​

    CDPH remains in close contact with the CDC and the World Health Organization (WHO). This is an evolving situation, and information is current as of May 13. New or changing information will be updated as it becomes available.   

Helpful Language for Media and Communicators 

    CDPH, in coordination with its partners, is monitoring five individuals with possible exposure. There are no cases in California or among California residents. 

Table of California Possible Exposures 

    1) ​Exposure Location​: ​Onboard MV Hondius

        - ​Current Location: ​Santa Clara County

        - ​Current Status: ​Undergoing monitoring; asymptomatic

        - ​Number of California Residents: 1

    2-3) ​Exposure Location: ​Onboard MV Hondius  ​

        - ​Current Location: ​Nebraska

        - Current Status: ​Undergoing monitoring; asymptomatic

        - ​Number of California Residents: ​2

    4) ​Exposure Location: ​On Flight with Known non-CA Case

        - ​Current Location: ​Sacramento County

        - Current Status: ​Undergoing monitoring; asymptomatic

        - ​Number of California Residents: ​1

    5) ​Exposure Location: ​Onboard MV Hondius  ​

        - Current Location: ​Pitcairn Islands  

        - Current Status: ​Undergoing monitoring; asymptomatic  

        - Number of California Residents: 1

    -- ​Total: ​5​

Source: 

Link: https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/OPA/Pages/NR26-020.aspx

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