#Taiwan: First locally acquired #human case of novel avian #H7 #influenza virus has been detected (MoH, edited)

 

The Taiwan Centers for Disease Control (CDC) announced today (March 2nd) the first locally transmitted case of novel H7 subtype avian influenza in Taiwan. 

The patient is a man in his 70s from central Taiwan who works in poultry farming and has a history of chronic illness. 

He developed symptoms of runny nose, cough, and body aches on March 20th and sought medical attention at a hospital on March 22nd due to fever. 

He was admitted to the hospital on the same day. 

Imaging examination revealed pneumonia. 

Based on clinical symptoms, test results, and the patient's contact history, the doctor reported the case as a novel H7 avian influenza and administered antiviral medication. 

Further testing and gene sequencing by the CDC confirmed the virus as H7 subtype avian influenza. 

Sequence analysis showed that this H7 belongs to the Eurasian lineage and is similar to the H7 subtype avian influenza viruses monitored in wild birds (mainly ducks and anadidae) in Taiwan over the years. 

However, it is different from the H7N9 subtype avian influenza virus that circulated in mainland China from 2013 to 2019, and is a low-pathogenic avian influenza virus. 

This morning, the CDC convened a meeting with agricultural authorities and relevant medical and veterinary experts to discuss the case and, based on the test results, confirmed it as a case of novel H7 avian influenza in humans. 

The patient's condition has improved and they are continuing isolation and treatment. 

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) stated that after the first locally transmitted case of H7 subtype novel influenza A was detected in Taiwan, health and agricultural authorities immediately launched a joint epidemic prevention operation to carry out relevant investigations and prevention measures. 

Health authorities, with the assistance of epidemiologists and the Health Bureau, conducted on-site epidemiological investigations at the patient's residence, poultry farm, and hospital. 

Currently, 33 close contacts are under health monitoring and management, and 3 have been given preventative medication based on risk assessment. 

Tests were conducted on 6 family members, all of whom tested negative. 

Agricultural authorities immediately implemented movement restrictions at the poultry farm, and animal testing results were negative for avian influenza virus. 

To clarify the source of infection, today's expert meeting resolved to request the farm to expand testing at nearby poultry farms and to cooperate with wild bird associations to collect droppings from surrounding wild birds. 

Furthermore, the CDC will continue to cooperate with the farm to obtain the gene sequence of the H7 virus detected in Taiwan for further comparison. 

Health and agricultural authorities will continue to strengthen surveillance of humans and animals, including respiratory viruses and influenza/novel coronavirus pneumonia surveillance in medical institutions, active surveillance of poultry farms and migratory birds, and will cooperate with farmers to promote personal protective measures for poultry farmers and public health education. 

They have also contacted duck farming associations to distribute 40,000-50,000 masks free of charge to duck farmers. 

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) pointed out that, based on current epidemiological investigations and test results, the genetic analysis of this case shows a low-pathogenic avian influenza virus, without any mutations increasing the risk of avian-to-human transmission, and it remains a common avian virus. 

The initial assessment is that this case is an isolated incident. 

Considering the patient's improved condition after treatment, the lack of mutations increasing the risk of avian-to-human transmission in the preliminary genetic analysis, the negative test results at the poultry farm, and the absence of any other family members showing symptoms after the patient's onset, the risk is assessed as controllable, and there is no immediate risk of the outbreak expanding. 

However, to understand the potential risks of this case, they will continue to track the symptoms and test results of contacts, further analyze the virus and trace possible sources of infection, and have activated a joint working group on the risk assessment of zoonotic infectious diseases between agriculture and health authorities to conduct a comprehensive risk assessment. 

The Taiwan Centers for Disease Control (CDC) will notify the World Health Organization (WHO) today through the IHR contact window in accordance with the International Health Regulations (IHR).

According to surveillance data, since the novel influenza A virus was classified as a Category 5 notifiable infectious disease in Taiwan in 2014, a total of 5 sporadic cases have been reported. Besides this case, the others were reported in 2017 (H7N9, imported from outside China), 2021 (H1N2v), 2022 (H1N2v), and 2023 (H1N2v). In addition, there were 4 confirmed cases of H7N9 imported from outside China in 2013-2014; none of the contacts were infected.

The CDC explained that the H7N9 sequence in today's reported case is only closely related to one other human case, H7N4, reported in Jiangsu, China in 2018. The case involves a 68-year-old woman with a history of coronary heart disease and hypertension. She developed symptoms such as cough, weakness, and muscle aches on December 25, 2017, and was hospitalized for pneumonia on January 1, 2018, and discharged on January 22 after recovery. Prior to the onset of illness, the patient had contact with live poultry. Her close contacts did not develop any suspected symptoms during the observation period. The virus remains avian and has not shown resistance to existing antiviral drugs.

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reminds workers involved in poultry and livestock farming to implement self-protection measures during operations and to conduct thorough disinfection after work to reduce the risk of infection with the novel influenza A. If symptoms of acute respiratory infection or conjunctivitis appear, seek medical attention immediately and proactively inform healthcare professionals of your occupational history of contact with animals to facilitate early diagnosis. The public is advised to implement the "5 Dos and 6 Don'ts" epidemic prevention principles in daily life:

"5 Dos": Cook meat and eggs thoroughly with soap; wash hands thoroughly with soap; if symptoms appear, wear a mask, seek medical attention immediately, and inform the doctor of your occupation and contact history; those who have long-term contact with poultry and livestock should get vaccinated against influenza; maintain a balanced diet and exercise appropriately.

"6 Don'ts": Don't eat raw poultry, eggs, or poultry products; don't smuggle or buy meat of unknown origin; don't touch or feed poultry and livestock; don't release or discard poultry and livestock indiscriminately; don't mix poultry and livestock with other poultry and livestock; and don't go to places with poor air circulation or crowded places.

For related information, please visit the Taiwan Centers for Disease Control website (https://www.cdc.gov.tw/) or call the toll-free epidemic prevention hotline 1922 (or 0800-001922).

Source: 

Link: https://www.cdc.gov.tw/Bulletin/Detail/bZE85LXA9ZGdCvEJKZe6Cg?typeid=9

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#Serological #Surveillance of Avian #Influenza Virus #H9N2 Subtype in #Occupational Populations Exposed to #Poultry Environment in #China During 2018–2023

 

Abstract

Background

Avian influenza virus (AIV) H9N2 has a major role in the emergence of influenza pandemic. We assessed the risk of AIV H9N2 to the human population and public health.

Method

The hemagglutination inhibition method was used to screen for hemagglutinin antibodies. Microneutralization tests were performed to confirm neutralizing antibodies against the AIV H9N2 subtype. Real-time polymerase chain reaction was conducted to detect the H9 subtype in environmental samples. GraphPad Prism software was used for mapping, and STATA software was used for statistical analysis.

Results

The nationwide seroprevalence among these populations was 0.76%. Seroprevalence was compared across regions, genders, and occupational exposure sites. The seroprevalence rates for males and females showed no significant difference. Significant differences were found across regions and occupational exposure environments (P < .05). The south and southwest regions had the highest seroprevalence rates at 1.58% and 1.38%, respectively. The highest seroprevalence was observed in individuals exposed to live poultry market (1.51%). Significant regional differences in H9 nucleic acid positive rates (NAPRs) were found (P < .05), with the southwest and central regions showing the highest rates at 25.99% and 24.35%, respectively. H9 NAPR in live poultry markets (LPMs), farms, and slaughterhouses varied significantly by region (P < .05).

Conclusions

Poultry-related environments have become a key factor in AIV H9N2 infection among occupational populations. Exposure to LPM showed the highest seroprevalence among occupational groups. The distribution characteristics of H9N2 across different poultry environments increased the risk of infection in occupationally exposed populations.

Source: 

Link: https://academic.oup.com/ofid/article/13/4/ofag144/8537381

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Current #status of #intranasal and inhaled #COVID19 #vaccines

 

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the development of intranasal and inhaled COVID-19. vaccines. Four vector-based and one adjuvanted protein-based vaccines have been licenced. They have been shown to be safe. However, their ability to induce strong protective mucosal immunity in humans remains to be improved. Diversifying intranasal vaccine platforms, improving the delivery of vaccine components and determining mucosal correlates of protection could help in optimizing intranasal COVID-19 vaccine efficacy.

Source: 

Link: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41541-026-01432-w

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Rapid #identification of #COVID #wastewater #surges in the absence of case data

 

ABSTRACT

Genetic testing of community wastewater (wastewater surveillance) is a valuable tool for following trends in the abundance of SARS-CoV-2 and other infectious disease pathogens over time. Wastewater surveillance is increasingly important in the absence of corresponding epidemiological data, particularly for infectious diseases with limited timely data on clinical case incidences. Due to the inherent noise in wastewater data, a single sample is not sufficient to identify a sustained trend in the abundance of a target. This challenge is magnified in resource-limited settings where samples may be collected only once or twice per week. In this work, we collected 24-h composite samples of wastewater daily from a single facility for nearly 4 years. We use this high-frequency data set to describe a method for identifying trends in SARS-CoV-2 abundance in wastewater based on a variety of collection frequencies. Our results indicate that collecting two 24-h composites per week for 2 weeks is sufficient to accurately identify a SARS-CoV-2 surge. We conclude that low-frequency wastewater sampling performs reasonably well in identifying trends in a timely fashion.

Source: 

Link: https://journals.asm.org/doi/full/10.1128/msphere.00652-25?af=R

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#UK, #England: Notified cases of invasive #meningococcal disease - Updated 2 April 2026 (UKHSA, edited)

 

{Excerpt}

(...)

Daily case figures

-- The number of confirmed and probable cases can change when:

- a case is laboratory confirmed

- when the clinical assessment changes, including when new laboratory results are available

- when further epidemiological information is available

-- The figures in Table 1 cannot be used to identify the number of new confirmed or probable cases from one day to the next. This also applies to total cases.

Table 1. Cases of invasive meningococcal disease linked to Canterbury, Kent by day from 16 March 2026

[Date - Total outbreak confirmed cases - Outbreak confirmed MenB cases (subset of total outbreak confirmed cases) - Outbreak confirmed MenB cases with outbreak strain (subset of outbreak confirmed MenB cases) - Outbreak probable cases - Total outbreak cases]

* 01 April 2026 - 21 [note 2] - 21 - 18 - 0 - 21

* 30 March 2026 - 21 [note 2] - 21 - 17 - 0 - 21

* 26 March 2026 - 20 [note 2] - 20 - 17 - 1 - 21

* 25 March 2026 - 20 [note 2] - 20 - 17 - 2 - 22

* 24 March 2026 - 20 [note 2] - 20 - 17 - 2 - 22

* 23 March 2026 - 20 [note 2] - 20 - 17 - 3 - 23

* 22 March 2026 - 20 [note 2] - 19 - [note 1] - 9 - 29

* 21 March 2026 - 20 [note 2] - 19 - [note 1] - 9 - 29

* 20 March 2026 - 23 - 18 - [note 1] - 11 - 34

* 19 March 2026 - 18 - 13 - [note 1] - 11 - 29

* 18 March 2026 - 15 - 9 - [note 1] - 12 -  27

* 17 March 2026 - 9 - 6 - [note 1] - 11 - 20

* 16 March 2026 - [note 1] - 4 - [note 1] - [note 1] - 1

__

Note 1: Information not reported

Note 2: A case initially classified as a confirmed case may be reclassified or discarded when further laboratory results and clinical information are available. This applies to situations where:

- further testing (including results from specialist reference laboratories) rules out meningococcal disease

and 

- there is an alternative diagnosis or where the clinical picture is no longer consistent with meningococcal infection

__

Note: The case numbers presented in Table 1 were confirmed at specific times of day for each of the releases: 16 March 2026 verified at 5:00pm, 17 March 2026 verified at 3:00pm, 18 March 2026 onwards verified at 12:30pm.

-- There have been 2 deaths since the start of the incident.

(...)

Source: 

Link: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/invasive-meningococcal-disease-statistical-releases/notified-cases-of-invasive-meningococcal-disease

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Clade C #MERS-CoV #camel #strains vary in #protease utilization during viral entry

 

Significance

Clade A/B Middle East Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) outbreaks have caused over 957 deaths since the first spillover in 2012; meanwhile, Clade C strains have been found in camels across Africa but have not yet been reported to cause outbreaks. Investigating why these viruses do not successfully transmit to humans will be key to understanding the pandemic potential of the African MERS-CoV camel reservoir. Our study indicates that clade C viruses exhibit less spike cleavage and that East African clade C isolates are less able to utilize the TMPRSS2 for viral entry of both human cell lines and primary nasal cells. Differences in viral entry pathways could alter cellular and organ tropism and contribute to differential pandemic potential.

Abstract

Middle East Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) is a lethal pathogen with pandemic potential. Clade A and B MERS-CoV viruses have caused outbreaks in the Middle East since 2012 when they initially spilled over from camels to humans. Clade C viruses, however, are only found in camels across Africa and the spillover potential of these viruses seems to be lower than for clade A/B strains but remains to be fully understood. Here, we report that clade C spikes are less well-cleaved at the S1/S2 boundary than clade A or B viral spikes and that most clade C spikes induce reduced syncytium formation. Additionally, we demonstrate that several East African clade C strains are less able to utilize the TMPRSS2-mediated pathway for viral entry in both cell lines and primary nasal epithelial cultures. We map the molecular basis of this reduced TMPRSS2 usage to the N-terminal domain and subdomain 2 of East African clade C MERS-CoV. We suggest that reduced usage of the TMPRSS2-mediated entry pathway may underlie the reduced replication of East African clade C strains in humans, while the reduced replication of West African strains remains to be further investigated. Altered protease usage may contribute to differential tropism of East African clade C strains and indicate geographically distinct selection pressures on spike between MERS-CoV strains circulating in camels.

Source: 

Link: https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2525313123

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Monoclonal #antibodies from #COVID19 convalescent #patients target cryptic epitopes for broad #SARS-CoV-2 #neutralization

 

Significance

The rapid emergence of SARS-CoV-2 variants that efficiently spread and evade antibody-based treatments underscores the need for countermeasures that remain effective as the virus evolves. In this study, two human mAbs, TAU-1109 and TAU-2310, isolated from individuals who recovered from SARS-CoV-2 infection early in the pandemic, neutralize all tested variants of concern, including recent Omicron sublineages. Structural and functional analyses show that these antibodies recognize conserved, cryptic regions on the spike’s RBD and disable the virus by destabilizing the spike trimer and triggering premature loss of the S1 subunit, thereby preventing cell entry. These findings reveal a naturally occurring, broadly protective antibody mechanism and highlight conserved surfaces on the receptor-binding domain as promising blueprints for next-generation COVID-19 therapies and vaccines.

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic, which has resulted in over seven million global fatalities, poses a substantial threat to public health and precipitated a global economic crisis. Emerging variants of concern (VOCs) with enhanced transmissibility and improved immune evasion may compromise the efficacy of current antiviral and immunotherapies, necessitating comprehensive investigations into the immune response to SARS-CoV-2. The conformational dynamics of the receptor binding domain in SARS-CoV-2 spike and the presentation of neutralizing antibody epitopes influence viral transmission and infection rates. In this study, we have identified highly conserved non-receptor-binding motif epitopes for two potent monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), TAU-1109 and TAU-2310, isolated from convalescent human patients, which contribute to the broad neutralizing activity of these mAbs against all the circulating VOCs, including the recently emerged Omicron subvariants. We employed high-resolution structural data in conjunction with systematic biochemical investigation to elucidate the neutralization mechanism of TAU-1109 and TAU-2310. The mechanism involves antibody-mediated destabilization of the spike trimer, resulting in the premature shedding of the S1 subunit and rendering the spike incapable of mediating host cell entry. The identification of conserved cryptic epitopes in our study advances the mechanistic understanding of immune response against SARS-CoV-2, providing alternative avenues for the development of universal therapeutic antibodies and vaccines to combat COVID-19.

Source: 

Link: https://www.pnas.org/doi/abs/10.1073/pnas.2523864123?af=R

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‘Our problem here is the #pig #Ebola’: local accounts of #epizootics preceding Ebola #outbreaks in north-eastern #DRC

 

Abstract

Introduction 

Despite their potential relevance for outbreak understanding, epizootic reports associated with Ebola scarcely appear in biomedical literature. This study examines local accounts of animal deaths preceding the 2012 and the 2017 Ebola outbreaks in the north-eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

Methods 

The analysis is based on retrospective interviews conducted with scientists deployed during these two Ebola outbreaks, as well as testimonies collected in 2022 and 2023 from local residents, clinicians and veterinarians. It also draws on local archives to examine how reports of animal deaths were framed and understood in light of a new epidemic situation.

Results 

Selective pressures that favour certain wild animal species, along with social practices such as bushmeat hunting, contribute to a narrowing of focus during outbreak investigations. This has contributed to overlooking some testimonies from marginalised local actors, which remain unpublished to this day. Animal death reports, however, need to be read in their social context. During the 2017 Ebola outbreak, local breeders framed their concerns about pig mortality into a question to be addressed by global health researchers—even though the deaths were not linked to Ebola but were likely caused by an unrelated pathogen, the African swine fever virus.

Conclusion 

Beyond their biological relevance, epizootics can offer insight into the social contexts in which epidemics are identified. These epizootics can shed light on local experiences of diseases, illustrating local priorities and sense-making processes.

Data availability statement

Data sharing is not applicable as no data sets were generated and/or analysed for this study.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1136/medhum-2025-013586

Footnotes

Contributors: JV conceptualised the study, conducted the research and wrote the manuscript. JV is the guarantor.

Funding: The author received support from Sciences Po Medialab and IFAS (Institut Français d'Afrique du Sud) for fieldwork in the DRC in 2022 and 2023.

Competing interests: None declared.

Patient and public involvement: Patients and/or the public were involved in the design, or conduct, or reporting, or dissemination plans of this research. Refer to the Methods section for further details.

Provenance and peer review: Not commissioned; externally peer reviewed.

Source: 

Link: https://mh.bmj.com/content/early/2026/04/01/medhum-2025-013586

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#Oropouche virus #outbreaks in northeast #Brazil between 2024–25 are characterized by sustained #transmission and spread to newly affected areas

 

Abstract

Oropouche virus (OROV) has recently expanded in Brazil, establishing transmission in non-endemic regions. This study aims to integrate epidemiological and molecular data to investigate OROV spread in Northeast (NE) Brazil between 2024 and 2025. OROV cases were analyzed regarding ecological risk factors and geographical clustering. Additionally, we sequenced 65 new OROV genomes from the Northeast states of Pernambuco, Paraíba, and Sergipe to infer the virus’s spatiotemporal dynamics in NE Brazil. A total of 2,806 confirmed cases were reported between March 2024 and April 2025, affecting 170 municipalities across eight out of nine NE states, with highly heterogeneous incidence. An ecological shift was observed, with OROV transmission moving from Atlantic Forest areas in 2024 to humid Caatinga zones in 2025. Phylogenetic reconstruction revealed multiple independent viral introductions in Northeast in 2024, including two in Pernambuco. The first, originating from the central Amazonas, became the main driver of local transmission and subsequently spread to Sergipe and Paraíba, causing outbreaks in 2024 and 2025, respectively. The second introduction remained restricted within Pernambuco. While several Northeast municipalities reported high OROV incidence, Jaqueira (Pernambuco) emerged as a key hub for regional viral spread. OROV showed sustained transmission in the region over a two-year period, characterized by marked spatiotemporal displacement consistent with short-lived, rapidly spreading outbreaks, followed by cryptic transmission and subsequent dissemination to new areas, ultimately driving renewed intense outbreaks.

Source: 

Link: https://journals.plos.org/plosntds/article?id=10.1371/journal.pntd.0014171

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Predicting highly pathogenic avian #influenza #H5N1 #outbreak #risk using extreme #weather and bird #migration data in machine learning models

 

Abstract

Background. 

Climate change is intensifying extreme weather events (EWEs) with potentially profound consequences for zoonotic disease dynamics, yet the mechanisms linking EWEs to highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 outbreaks remain poorly characterized. The ongoing H5N1 panzootic, responsible for infection in over 500 avian and mammalian species, as well as nearly 1000 human cases and 477 deaths worldwide, provides a critical opportunity to evaluate how climate conditions shape spillover risk at landscape scales. 

Methods. 

We compiled a county-month dataset of confirmed H5N1 detections across the contiguous United States from 2022 to 2024 and integrated it with satellite-derived climate metrics, storm event data, and wild bird activity data. We trained and validated a gradient boosting machine classifier to predict outbreak risk and characterize predictor relationships. 

Results. 

Our model achieved strong discriminative performance (AUC-ROC = 0.856; AUC-PR = 0.237, representing a 7-fold improvement over chance) and high recall (0.726), supporting its utility as an early warning tool. Human population and temperature-related variables were the most influential predictors: cold temperature shocks and prolonged low temperatures were consistently associated with elevated outbreak risk, likely through enhanced environmental viral persistence, wild bird habitat compression, and allostatic stress-driven immunosuppression in reservoir hosts. Among storm variables, high wind coverage elevated risk, potentially via aerosol dispersal of contaminated particulates, while tornado activity showed an inverse relationship, consistent with documented avoidant behavior in migratory birds. Wild bird reservoir density showed a strong positive monotonic relationship with outbreak risk. 

Conclusions. 

Our analyses demonstrate that routinely available environmental and infection data can be used to predict HPAI outbreak risk at fine spatiotemporal scales. These findings demonstrate the divergent roles of short- versus long-term environmental exposures in HPAI spillover dynamics, as well as the potential for machine learning-based surveillance tools to inform targeted biosecurity interventions and early warning systems.

Competing Interest Statement

The authors have declared no competing interest.

Funding Statement

This research was supported by a subaward agreement between prime award recipient Boston University (PI: Gregory Wellenius) and the subaward recipient Regents of the University of Colorado (PI: Elise Grover) under the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences of the National Institutes of Health, Award Number U24ES035309 -01. The content is solely the responsibility of the authors and does not necessarily represent the official views of the National Institutes of Health.

Source: 

Link: https://www.medrxiv.org/content/10.64898/2026.03.30.26349797v1

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#Tropism and #Replication Competence of #Cattle #Influenza #H5N1 Genotype B3.13 Virus in #Human Bronchus and #Lung Tissue

 

Abstract

In 2024, influenza A(H5N1) genotype B3.13 viruses emerged from cattle and caused mild spillover infections in humans. Using human bronchus and lung tissue, we evaluated tropism, replication, and pathogenesis of 2 cattle influenza isolates. Those viruses showed moderate replication competence and induced robust proinflammatory responses, suggesting potential risk for human health.

Source: 

Link: https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/eid/article/32/5/25-1926_article

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The emergence and molecular #evolution of #H5N1 #influenza viruses in #USA dairy #cattle

 

Abstract

Prior to 2024, highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b viruses circulated predominantly in wild birds and poultry. In 2024 and 2025, 2.3.4.4b genotypes B3.13 and D1.1 were detected in United States dairy cattle. Using whole-genome and segment-specific phylodynamic inference, we estimate that B3.13 and D1.1 spilled over from wild birds into dairy cattle in late 2023 and late 2024, respectively. Spillover occurred shortly after the formation of the reassortant genotypes and was followed by months of cryptic transmission prior to detection. We found that both B3.13 and D1.1 evolved at higher rates in cattle relative to birds, primarily due to relaxed purifying selection. Site-specific analyses identified genomic sites under positive selection in cattle relative to birds, indicating adaptation and likely contributing to improved viral fitness after spillover. Intensified genomic surveillance in dairy cattle is essential as population immunity introduces additional selection pressures, with ever-changing risk for human emergence.

Competing Interest Statement

M.A.S. receives contracts from Johnson & Johnson and Gilead Sciences outside the scope of this work. M.U.G.K. received consulting fees from Takeda, Bavaria Nordic, and Google DeepMind for work unrelated to the manuscript.

Funder Information Declared

Fonds voor Wetenschappelijk Onderzoek - Vlaanderen, G051322N, G051323N

UK Medical Research Council/Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) FluTrailMap-One Health consortium, MR/Y03368X/1

Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC)/DEFRA ‘FluTrailMap’ consortium, BB/Y007298/1

Pirbright Institute’s Strategic Program Grants, BBS/E/PI/230002A, BBS/E/PI/230002B

EMBO Installation Grant, 5305

Academy of Medical Sciences Springboard, 1049

Centers of Excellence for Influenza Research and Response, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Department of Health and Human Services, 75N93021C00015, 75N93021C00014

National Institutes of Health, AI135995, AI153044, AI192139

Rockefeller Foundation, PC-2022-POP-005

Health AI Programme from Google.org

Oxford Martin School Programmes in Pandemic Genomics & Digital Pandemic Preparedness

European Union's Horizon Europe, 874850, 101086640

Wellcome Trust, 303666/Z/23/Z, 226052/Z/22/Z, 228186/Z/23/Z

United Kingdom Research and Innovation, APP8583

Medical Research Foundation, MRF-RG-ICCH-2022-100069

UK International Development, 301542-403

Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, INV-063472, INV-090281

Novo Nordisk Foundation, NNF24OC0094346

Source: 

Link: https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.64898/2026.03.30.713641v1

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Brown and Lesser #noddies as epidemiological #reservoirs and #sentinels of avian #influenza virus in the South-western Indian #Ocean

 

Abstract

Avian influenza virus (AIV) epidemiology is well documented in temperate regions but remains poorly understood in isolated ecosystems like tropical oceanic islands. On these islands, seabirds nest in dense interspecific colonies where the role of different species as reservoirs and dispersers of AIV may vary greatly. Here, we examine the role of noddies (Anous spp.) as potential reservoirs for low pathogenic AIV and evaluate their potential as sentinel species for highly pathogenic AIV introduction on tropical oceanic islands. We analyzed blood samples from 11 seabird species across eight islands in the southwestern Indian Ocean (2015 to 2020). Noddies exhibited high, stable seroprevalence (30 to 45%), comparable to reservoir host species in temperate regions. The detection of two N7 positive noddies, sampled the same year on two distinct islands, provided direct molecular evidence that AIV actively circulates on these island colonies. While most other species showed low exposure, Bridled Terns (Onychoprion anaethetus) had exceptionally high seroprevalence (80%), though their reservoir status requires further investigation due to limited sampling. Given noddies consistent exposure and regional distribution, we recommend prioritizing islands with large noddy populations for AIV surveillance. Continued investigation of viral dynamics within and among islands is now called for to elucidate the ecological drivers of AIV maintenance and transmission.

Competing Interest Statement

The authors have declared no competing interest.

Source: 

Link: https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.64898/2026.03.31.715511v1

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Intravenous #immunoglobulin #treatment for #longCOVID: a case report of clinical and immunological findings

 

Summary

A previously healthy 39-year-old man developed highly symptomatic post-COVID-19 condition (also known as long COVID) marked by cognitive dysfunction, disabling fatigue, and autonomic symptoms unresponsive to multiple multidisciplinary interventions. Given the presence of markedly elevated serum autoantibodies against G protein-coupled receptors, high-dose intravenous immunoglobulin therapy was initiated at 400 mg/kg per day for 5 consecutive days. After 4 weeks, a maintenance dose of 500 mg/kg was administered for 1 day, followed by two further maintenance cycles consisting of 500 mg/kg per day for 3 consecutive days, each given at 4-week intervals. In parallel, the patient underwent a cognitive stimulation intervention. Neurological symptoms were assessed with the Fatigue Assessment Scale and the WHO Disability Assessment Schedule 2.0, and the immunological profile was longitudinally analysed during intravenous immunoglobulin treatment. Fatigue scores normalised, neurocognitive performance returned to normal value, and quality of life improved after the first infusion and fully recovered within 1 year. Immunological profiling revealed the presence of an inverted CD4 to CD8 T-cell ratio that persisted during the whole follow-up. We also identified a CD8+ T cell–monocyte complex and spontaneous IFNγ release. Intravenous immunoglobulin therapy was associated with a significant reduction of these complexes, spontaneous IFNγ and TNF production, markers of endothelial inflammation, and circulating autoantibody titres. This patient provides exploratory evidence that high-dose intravenous immunoglobulin was associated with sustained clinical recovery from long COVID over 1 year of follow-up, accompanied by immunological changes consistent with modulation of post-viral immune dysregulation, including a reduction in pathogenic T cell–monocyte synapses. Although causal inference cannot be established from a single patient, these findings suggest that this cellular interaction can contribute to long COVID and that immunomodulation could represent a rational therapeutic approach to be evaluated in selected patients.

Source: 

Link: https://www.thelancet.com/journals/laninf/article/PIIS1473-3099(26)00063-0/abstract?rss=yes

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Broad #protection against #Influenza A Viruses via an adjuvant-free #mucosal microparticle #vaccine with conserved CD8/CD4 bispecific peptides

 

Abstract

Influenza A viruses (IAVs) cause substantial global morbidity and mortality and are responsible for most known viral pandemics. Their rapid antigenic evolution enables escape from natural and vaccine-induced immunity, requiring annual vaccine reformulation, which offers limited breadth and variable effectiveness. Although a universal influenza vaccine remains a critical objective, most strategies have focused on conserved viral glycoproteins to elicit broadly neutralizing antibodies, with comparatively fewer efforts targeting conserved T cell antigens to achieve cross-subtype protection. Current T cell-based approaches often rely on individual CD8+ epitopes, which are limited by peptide instability, delivery constraints, and dependence on adjuvants. Here, we demonstrate a T cell-focused vaccine strategy that uses evolutionary consensus of IAV M1 and NP from the H1N1 and H3N2 subtypes to predict, map, and screen conserved regions enriched with multiple CD8+ and CD4+ epitopes. We selected the top-performing peptides from immunogenicity screening. We encapsulated them in polylactic-co-glycolic acid microparticles (PLGA-MPs) engineered for selective uptake by APCs and pH-dependent sustained release. Intranasal delivery of this vaccine formulation targeted the primary site of infection and induced robust mucosal immunity without the need for conventional adjuvants. Both human and murine influenza-experienced T cells mounted potent recall responses to the vaccine. In mice, immunization elicited strong CD8+ and CD4+ T cell responses and conferred broad protection against homologous H1N1 and H3N2 as well as heterologous H5N1 IAV subtypes. These findings collectively establish a mucosal, T cell-based vaccine platform that is adjuvant-free and capable of providing broad protection against IAV and other viruses with pandemic potential.

Competing Interest Statement

The authors have declared no competing interest.

Funder Information Declared

DBT-ENDFLU, BT/IN/EU-INF/15/RV/19-20

Source: 

Link: https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.64898/2026.03.29.715080v1

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

 

This incident is occurring in the Maule Region, in the municipality of San Rafael, on a recreational property where two owners are responsible for the total number of birds reported. All of the birds will be humanely culled, and the carcasses will be buried on the property under strict biosecurity measures.

Source: 

Link: https://wahis.woah.org/#/in-review/7405

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Antiviral activities of multiple #antivirals against highly pathogenic avian #influenza A #H5N1 in vitro and in mice

 

ABSTRACT

In 2024, a bovine H5N1 strain was first isolated from dairy cows in Texas and confirmed to transmit cross-species to humans. Therefore, research on treatments for human infection should be accelerated. In our study, the antiviral effects of baloxavir acid (BXA), oseltamivir carboxylate (OSC), EIDD-1931 (NHC), and ribavirin (RBV) against five H5N1 strains were evaluated in vitro. Cell viability and viral replication were measured to assess the antiviral effects. The results showed that the EC50 of BXA treatment was the lowest. The BXA/NHC and BXA/OSC combination treatments showed more potent inhibitory effects than each monotherapy. The 15 mg/kg baloxavir marboxil (BXM) / 125 mg/kg molnupiravir (MNP) and the 15 mg/kg BXM / 10 mg/kg oseltamivir phosphate (OSP) were tested in BALB/c mice. The mice were inoculated with 10 times the 50% mouse lethal dose (10 MLD50) of bovine H5N1 virus. Treatments began 1-day post-infection (1 dpi) and were administered orally twice daily for 5 or 7 days. Changes in body weight, clinical signs, and survival were monitored; lung and brain tissues were collected for virological, immunological, and histological analyses. Most mice died from severe neurological symptoms. Compared with the 5-day treatment, the 7-day treatment effectively inhibited viral replication and increased survival rates to 50% in BXM, BXM/MNP, and BXM/OSP treatments. Mice treated with BXM/MNP or BXM/OSP combination therapy showed lower viral yields in the lungs than those treated with BXM alone. The results provide a reference for human treatment, and extending the 7-day combination treatment should be considered.

Source: Emerging Microbes and Infections, https://www.tandfonline.com/journals/temi20

Link: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/22221751.2026.2645843

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#UK, #England: Notified cases of invasive #meningococcal disease - Updated 31 March 2026 (UKHSA, edited)

 

{Excerpt}

(...)

Notified cases of invasive meningococcal disease linked to Canterbury, Kent

-- As of 12:30pm on 30 March 2026, UKHSA has been notified of 21 confirmed cases of invasive meningococcal disease with epidemiological links to Canterbury, Kent.

-- All of the 21 confirmed cases are meningococcal group B (MenB). 17 of these have the outbreak strain subtype P1.12-1,16-183.

-- All cases have been hospitalised.

-- There have been 2 deaths since the start of the incident.

Daily case figures

-- The number of confirmed and probable cases can change when:

- a case is laboratory confirmed

- when the clinical assessment changes, including when new laboratory results are available

- when further epidemiological information is available

-- The figures in Table 1 cannot be used to identify the number of new confirmed or probable cases from one day to the next. This also applies to total cases.

Table 1. Cases of invasive meningococcal disease linked to Canterbury, Kent by day from 16 March 2026

[Date - Total outbreak confirmed cases - Outbreak confirmed MenB cases (subset of total outbreak confirmed cases) - Outbreak confirmed MenB cases with outbreak strain (subset of outbreak confirmed MenB cases) - Outbreak probable cases - Total outbreak cases]

* 30 March 2026 - 21 [note 2] - 21 - 17 - 0 - 21

* 26 March 2026 - 20 [note 2] - 20 - 17 - 1 - 21

* 25 March 2026 - 20 [note 2] - 20 - 17 - 2 - 22

* 24 March 2026 - 20 [note 2] - 20 - 17 - 2 - 22

* 23 March 2026 - 20 [note 2] - 20 - 17 - 3 - 23

* 22 March 2026 - 20 [note 2] - 19 - [note 1] - 9 - 29

* 21 March 2026 - 20 [note 2] - 19 - [note 1] - 9 - 29

* 20 March 2026 - 23 - 18 - [note 1] - 11 - 34

* 19 March 2026 - 18 - 13 - [note 1] - 11 - 29

* 18 March 2026 - 15 - 9 - [note 1] - 12 - 27

* 17 March 2026 - 9 - 6 - [note 1] - 11 - 20

* 16 March 2026 - [note 1] - 4 - [note 1] - [note 1] - 1

__

Note 1: Information not reported

Note 2: A case initially classified as a confirmed case may be reclassified or discarded when further laboratory results and clinical information are available. This applies to situations where:

- further testing (including results from specialist reference laboratories) rules out meningococcal disease

and 

- there is an alternative diagnosis or where the clinical picture is no longer consistent with meningococcal infection

__

Note: The case numbers presented in Table 1 were confirmed at specific times of day for each of the releases: 16 March 2026 verified at 5:00pm, 17 March 2026 verified at 3:00pm, 18 March 2026 onwards verified at 12:30pm.

-- There have been 2 deaths since the start of the incident.

(...)

Source: 

Link: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/invasive-meningococcal-disease-statistical-releases/notified-cases-of-invasive-meningococcal-disease

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Avian Influenza Report, Week 13 2026 (#HK SAR CHP, Published on March 31, 2026): One #Human Case of #Infection with #H9N2 #influenza virus in #Italy

 

{Excerpt}

(...)

Avian influenza A(H9N2): 

-- Italy, Lombardy: 

1) An individual with co-existing medical conditions returning from a non-European country. 

- This is the first human case of avian influenza A(H9N2) reported in Europe. 

(...)

Source: 

Link: https://www.chp.gov.hk/files/pdf/2026_avian_influenza_report_vol22_wk13.pdf

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#Cambodia - #Influenza A #H5N1 viruses of high pathogenicity (Inf. with) (non-poultry including wild birds & one #human case) (2017-) - Immediate notification

 

On 26 March 2026, an outbreak investigation team visited a backyard farm following reports of illness and mortality suspected to be caused by Avian Influenza (AI). A total of five samples (three chickens and two ducks) were collected and submitted to NAHPRI/GDAHP for testing of Avian Influenza (H5N1). On 27 March 2026, laboratory results confirmed that three out of five samples (two chickens and one duck) tested positive for Avian Influenza (H5N1). Additionally, in the same area, one human case of Avian Influenza (H5N1) was confirmed by the Ministry of Health on 31 March 2026.

Source: 

Link: https://wahis.woah.org/#/in-review/7409

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