Objectives Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), a member of the Coronaviridae family, is the causative agent of coronavirus disease 2019. The virus can adapt to and replicate in a wide range of host species and can cause respiratory disease in humans and animals. Transmission occurs primarily through close contact, underscoring its zoonotic potential. This study describes an outbreak of SARS-CoV-2 infection in a multispecies household in Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. Methods The household was monitored during two visits conducted 15 days apart. Biological samples were collected from nine animals and included oropharyngeal and rectal swabs for molecular detection and blood samples for complementary analyses. Results The owners and animals tested positive for SARS-CoV-2. Among the SARS-CoV-2–positive animals, three dogs and one cat had nonspecific clinical signs and/or comorbidities. Conclusion The findings support human-to-animal transmission within a shared environment and highlight the potential influence of comorbidities, human–animal interactions, and household conditions on viral transmission dynamics. From a One Health perspective, these results underscore the importance of integrated surveillance and cross-sectoral collaboration to improve understanding of interspecies transmission risks and support their mitigation.
Objectives Arboviral diseases, including dengue, chikungunya, Zika, and yellow fever, are expanding worldwide, driven by interacting factors such as vector adaptation, insecticide resistance, climate change, microbial symbioses, and environmental change. Integrated understanding of these drivers remains limited. Methods This narrative review synthesized literature on mosquito insecticide resistance, arbovirus transmission dynamics, environmental influences on vector ecology, microbiome effects on vector competence, and emerging surveillance and risk prediction tools. Studies from major databases were analyzed to identify key themes, consensus findings, and gaps and organized within a translational framework linking vector biology to public health. Results Evidence shows that climate change, urbanization, and environmental modification are expanding mosquito habitats and altering transmission patterns. Insecticide resistance, driven by genetic, metabolic, and behavioral mechanisms, threatens current control strategies. Vector–pathogen interactions and mosquito microbiota, including Wolbachia, significantly influence transmission potential. Advances in geospatial modeling, machine learning, and digital surveillance enhance outbreak prediction and targeted interventions. Overall, arboviral risk reflects interconnected biological and environmental processes. Conclusions Effective control requires shifting from insecticide-centered approaches toward integrated, sustainable, multidisciplinary strategies. Combining molecular biology, ecology, climate science, epidemiology, and predictive analytics can improve surveillance and preparedness for emerging vector-borne diseases.
Objectives Influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 became established in Norwegian pig herds following human-to-pig transmission during the 2009 pandemic. Unlike most countries, Norway's swine population remains endemic with only this single influenza lineage, providing a unique epidemiological setting to investigate long-term temporal associations between human and sow-herd influenza dynamics. Methods We analyzed 15 years (2009–2024) of parallel national human and sowherd surveillance data. Annual population-level exposure was approximated using an intensity-weighted human infection pressure metric integrating subtype predominance with seasonal peak laboratory positivity. Annual sow-herd prevalence, incidence, and seroreversion were derived from routine serological surveillance of stable breeding cohorts. Temporal associations were evaluated using lagged Pearson/Spearman cross-correlations (−2 to +2 years) and cluster-robust logistic regression models. Results Temporal analyses suggested that increases in human infection pressure preceded subsequent changes in sow-herd epidemiological dynamics. The strongest association with herd incidence occurred at lag 0 (Pearson r = 0.66, P = 0.005; Spearman ρ = 0.51, P = 0.043). Sow-herd prevalence peaked at a lag of + 2 years (Pearson r = 0.47, P = 0.087), while Spearman correlations peaked at lag + 1 (ρ = 0.42, P = 0.122). Seroreversion showed the strongest inverse associations at lag + 2 (r = −0.46, P = 0.101) and lag + 1 (ρ = −0.48, P = 0.072). Congruently, cluster-robust logistic regression demonstrated a consistent pattern of associations. Conclusion Over 15 years, variations in human influenza pressure consistently preceded sow-herd epidemiological shifts. These lagged associations are compatible with repeated human-to-pig spillover contributing to viral persistence. These findings highlight the utility of integrated One Health surveillance and suggest that mitigating human-to-pig exposure could complement herd-level biosecurity.
Objectives: Mpox keratitis is a sight-threatening complication of monkeypox virus infection, yet systematic evidence on treatment outcomes remains limited. To synthesize individual patient data on the clinical characteristics, treatment approaches, and visual outcomes of mpox keratitis. Methods: A systematic review registered on International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews. (CRD420261345543) was conducted in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyzes 2020 guidelines. Electronic databases were searched from 1970 to 2026. Eligible studies reported at least one patient with confirmed mpox keratitis with individual treatment and outcome data. Risk of bias was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklists. Results: The median age was 35 years (interquartile range 28–45); 86.6% were male; 46.3% were human immunodeficiency virus-positive; and 92.5% had Clade IIb. First-line success occurred in 16 of 63 (25.4% [95% confidence interval (CI) 16.3–37.3%]), whereas 39 of 63 (61.9% [95% CI 49.6–72.9%]) were treatment-refractory. Re-epithelialization was achieved in 47 of 67 (70.1% [95% CI 58.3–79.8%]). Permanent visual impairment occurred in 16 of 62 (25.8% [95% CI 16.6–37.9%]). Immunocompetent patients had higher re-epithelialization (78.6% vs 60.0%) and lower blindness (0% vs 11.3%) than immunocompromised patients. Conclusion: Mpox keratitis is characterized by low first-line success rates, high refractoriness, and significant visual morbidity. There is a need to establish prospective surveillance registries, including pharmacokinetic studies and clinical trials of promising antivirals, to evaluate their efficacy and safety for topical use.
Objectives Given recent declines in federal funding, a community-based surveillance system for highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) viruses was initiated in Galveston County, Texas. Methods Between November and December 2025, oropharyngeal and cloacal swabs were collected from wild and domestic birds reported as dead or dying by county residents. Specimens were studied with molecular assays, Sanger sequencing, virus isolation, and next-generation sequencing. Results Molecular evidence of HPAI H5N1 was detected in seven of 10 (70%) birds, and the virus was successfully cultured in Madin-Darby canine kidney cells. Next-generation sequencing identified the strains as belonging to clade 2.3.4.4b, consistent with genotype D1.1. Community members exposed to HPAI were offered antiviral prophylaxis. No human infections were identified. Conclusions This citizen-triggered, early warning surveillance system provided rapid HPAI virus detection and characterization as well as quick public health interventions. Such surveillance might be replicated nationally along migratory bird flyways to better protect the United States.
Despite widespread conceptual endorsement of One Health, many networks established to operationalize this approach have struggled to generate sustained action beyond coordination. This perspective draws on 20 years of continuous experience from a Regional One Health Network in New South Wales, Australia to identify characteristics associated with durability, relevance, and operational impact.Established in 2005, the Regional One Health Network brings together public health, veterinary, wildlife, ecological, laboratory, land management, social science, academic, and Indigenous partners across a large and environmentally diverse region. Through regular interaction, informal governance, and shared purpose, the network has supported integrated surveillance, collaborative outbreak investigation, applied research, and preparedness activities across the human–animal–environment interface.Examples including responses to anthrax, Hendra virus, brucellosis, and equine psittacosis illustrate how trust-based data sharing and multidisciplinary collaboration have informed risk assessment, surveillance strategies, and response measures. Contributions from social scientists and emerging engagement with First Nations partners have strengthened risk communication and contextual understanding of disease emergence and response.Evaluation findings highlight the importance of dedicated coordination capacity, concurrent proactive and reactive activities, and resistance to excessive formalization. This 20-year experience demonstrates that informal, trust-based, multidisciplinary One Health networks can deliver sustained operational value, offering practical lessons for strengthening One Health implementation in diverse settings.
Nipah virus is a zoonotic paramyxovirus that continues to cause recurrent outbreaks in South and Southeast Asia, with high case fatality rates ranging from 40% to 75%. Its natural reservoir, Pteropus fruit bats, is widely distributed across Africa, Asia, and Oceania, suggesting the virus could emerge in new countries and cause larger outbreaks. Over the years, responses to Nipah outbreaks have included mass culling, import bans, physical barriers to reduce bat–human contact, behavior change communication, surveillance, and broader public health and social measures. Although some of these interventions have successfully interrupted transmission, their overall impact has varied. Challenges related to sustainability, scalability, cultural practices, economic dependence, and local ecological contexts have limited long-term effectiveness. These experiences show that single-sector approaches are inadequate. Nipah virus transmission involves complex interactions between wildlife, domestic animals, human behavior, health systems, and ecological change, making it a clear example of a One Health challenge. Addressing this complexity requires a coordinated, multisectoral approach. One practical step would be to establish an institutionalized multisectoral collaboration through a National Technical Advisory Committee. This body will bring together experts from academia, government, and the private sector to design, implement, evaluate, and refine an evidence-based national strategy for Nipah prevention and control. Such a platform would enable culturally appropriate community engagement while strengthening integrated surveillance across human, wildlife, and animal health sectors. Furthermore, it would support data sharing and joint outbreak response. Grounding these efforts in a One Health framework would complement combined interventions, producing a stronger, more sustainable impact on Nipah outbreak prevention and control.
Objectives To investigate a cutaneous anthrax outbreak in Lalpur sub-district, Natore, Bangladesh—a non-endemic area for anthrax—and describe its epidemiology, source, transmission dynamics, and associated risk factors using a One Health approach. Methods We conducted a field investigation in July 2022 using descriptive epidemiology and a retrospective cohort study among individuals exposed to the slaughtering and handling of a sick cow. Human, animal, and environmental samples were tested for Bacillus anthracis using real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Attack rates and risk ratios were calculated to assess exposure–disease associations. Results A total of 265 exposed individuals were identified, among whom 11 suspected cutaneous anthrax cases occurred (attack rate: 4.2%). All cases were linked to the slaughtering and handling of a sick cow on July 6, 2022. The median incubation period was 6 days (range 1–11 days). RT-PCR testing confirmed Bacillus anthracis in four human cases, as well as in animal tissues and environmental samples. Raw meat handling was significantly associated with illness (risk ratio 4.43; 95% confidence interval 1.34–14.71). Conclusion This outbreak demonstrates point-source transmission of cutaneous anthrax in a non-endemic area of Bangladesh, associated with unsafe slaughtering and meat handling practices. Strengthened livestock vaccination, safe carcass management, and integrated One Health surveillance are essential to prevent future outbreaks.
Despite increasing global concern regarding hantavirus preparedness, Africa remains largely absent from current hantavirus surveillance frameworks despite growing evidence of viral circulation across the continent. Limited diagnostic capacity; weak surveillance systems; and substantial clinical overlap with severe malaria, leptospirosis, viral hemorrhagic fevers, and bacterial sepsis may contribute to under-recognition of hantavirus infections in African settings. Increasing human–rodent interactions, urbanization, and environmental disruption may further increase spillover risk. Strengthening laboratory capacity, clinician awareness, and integrated One Health surveillance approaches should become an important component of epidemic preparedness strategies across Africa.
Objectives Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is an emerging zoonotic pathogen that causes viral hepatitis worldwide. Several HEV genotypes have been reported in human and animal populations, and camel-associated HEV genotype 8 has been detected in Bactrian camels. This study aimed to determine anti-HEV immunoglobulin (Ig) G seroprevalence and associated risk factors among camel herders and non-herders in Dornod Province, eastern Mongolia. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted in 2024–2025 among 276 participants, from three districts of Dornod Province, including 146 camel herders and 130 non-herders. Serum samples were tested for anti-HEV IgG using a commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit. Sociodemographic, dietary, health, and environmental data were collected using structured questionnaires. Associations between HEV seropositivity and risk factors were analyzed using univariable logistic regression. Results Overall, 43 (15.6%) of 276 participants were positive for anti-HEV IgG. Seroprevalence was similar among camel herders and non-herders, with 23 (15.8%) of 146 camel herders and 20 (15.4%) of 130 non-herders testing positive. This difference was not statistically significant (χ² test, P = 0.933; Fisher’s exact test, P = 1.000). Higher seropositivity was observed among older participants, particularly, those aged ≥ 60 years, and among participants who regularly consumed raw camel milk. Lower educational level and district of residence were also associated with HEV seropositivity. Conclusion Previous HEV exposure is present among residents of Dornod Province, Mongolia; however, seroprevalence did not differ significantly between camel herders and non-herders. Because this study was based on anti-HEV IgG detection only, the infecting HEV genotype could not be determined, and the findings should not be interpreted as evidence of HEV-8 infection specifically. Further molecular studies are needed to identify circulating HEV genotypes and clarify transmission pathways in pastoral communities.
Objectives Uganda responded to 37 anthrax outbreaks during 2014–2024. In 2021, the country adopted the 7-1-7 framework, which stipulates that outbreaks be detected within 7 days, notifications be completed within 1 day, and early response actions be initiated and completed within 7 days. However, its application in prototypical zoonotic infections, such as anthrax, is unclear. We assessed the timeliness of response to the 2024 anthrax outbreak in a rural border district in Uganda. Methods Human and animal health surveillance records were reviewed to establish the dates of emergence, detection, notification, and response. Data were validated through discussions with district leaders, health workers, and residents to confirm accuracy and identify bottlenecks and enablers. Results In animals, detection occurred after 87 days and notification was made within 1 day. In humans, detection took 83 days and notification took 1 day. Early response actions were jointly initiated 5 days after notification and completed within 10 days. The outbreak involved 111 animal deaths and 90 cases of human anthrax, including six (6.7%) deaths. Enablers included a real-time One Health communication platform, partner support, village health teams, and trained animal health workers. Bottlenecks included weak zoonotic disease surveillance, understaffing, low suspicion index, misdiagnosis, and weak private-sector coordination. Conclusion Delays underscore the need for stronger cross-sector surveillance, private health sector engagement, and frontline health worker training with a One Health approach to improve preparedness, rapid detection, and effective response during future outbreaks.
Objectives Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever (CCHF) represents a critical zoonotic threat with expanding endemicity across the Middle East. Following decades of occurrence, Iraq experienced an unprecedented resurgence of CCHF between 2021 and 2024. We characterized the epidemiological dynamics, spatiotemporal patterns, and case fatality trends of this resurgence to inform targeted public health interventions. Methods We conducted a retrospective analysis of laboratory-confirmed CCHF cases reported to the World Health Organization (WHO) Iraq office in Sulaymaniyah during June 2021- May 2024. Data on case demographics, geographic distribution, seasonal trends, and mortality outcomes were extracted from the national surveillance database. Descriptive epidemiological analyzes were performed using SPSS v27.0, with temporal patterns visualized through heat mapping and weekly case distribution analyzes. Case fatality rates were calculated as the proportion of deaths among confirmed cases per epidemiological week. Results A total of 1089 laboratory-confirmed CCHF cases were identified over the 36-month surveillance period, with marked interannual variation. Following relatively limited transmission in 2021 (n = 45), cases increased substantially in 2022 (n = 250), culminating in an epidemic peak in 2023 (n = 587 cases in July alone). Geographic analysis revealed a distinct latitudinal gradient, with southern governorates (Dhi Qar, Basra, Maysan) accounting for 79.2% (n = 86/109) of 2023 cases, compared to minimal burden in northern regions (n = 4; 3.7%). Seasonal analysis demonstrated consistent spring-summer amplification, with 78% of annual cases occurring between April and August. The overall case fatality rate was 8.3% (range: 3.2–14.7%), with temporal clustering of fatal cases coinciding with epidemic peaks. A temporal decline was observed in early 2024, but persistent spring transmission (n = 50, April-May 2024) indicates sustained enzootic circulation. Conclusion The 2021–2024 period represents the most significant CCHF epidemic wave in Iraq’s surveillance history, characterized by southern geographic concentration and pronounced seasonality. These findings underscore the urgent need for vector control programs, livestock surveillance, and health care capacity strengthening in high-burden regions. Integration of CCHF surveillance with a One Health framework is essential to mitigate future epidemic potential in Iraq and the broader Middle East region.
Objectives Escherichia coli is a common foodborne pathogen and one of the leading causes of antimicrobial resistance, with a significant public health threat worldwide. This research aimed to isolate E. coli from raw broiler chicken meat collected from retail supermarkets in Sylhet, Bangladesh and investigate molecular characteristics of the isolates. In addition, the antimicrobial efficacy of nutmeg (Myristica fragrans) seed extracts against multidrug-resistant E. coli strains was evaluated. Methods A total of 12 broiler meat samples were analyzed. Eight presumptive E. coli isolates were recovered using cultural, morphologic, and biochemical methods and further subjected to polymerase chain reaction targeting the phoA housekeeping gene. The antibiotic susceptibility test demonstrated a high resistance rate to 11 antibiotics, representing 10 classes. Results High resistance rates were recorded for methicillin (100%), rifampicin (100%), vancomycin (87.5%), and ampicillin (75%). Six of the eight isolates were classified as multidrug-resistant (MDR) based on resistance to clinically relevant antimicrobial classes. Phytochemical analysis of aqueous, methanol, and acetone seed extracts of M. fragrans revealed bioactive components, including flavonoids, tannins, saponins, terpenoids, etc. The extracts exhibited notable efficacy against MDR E. coli, with the acetone extract being most effective, followed by methanolic and aqueous extracts. Conclusion The findings highlight the significant presence of MDR E. coli in poultry meat and indicate M. fragrans seed extracts as a potential natural source of novel antibacterial agents to combat antibiotic-resistant pathogens.
Objectives Rift Valley fever (RVF) is a deadly mosquito-borne viral disease. Rwanda reported its first major outbreak in 2018, followed by a larger one in 2022, with 173 human cases and 27 deaths. Given the limited clinical data available, we describe nine RVF cases, highlighting symptoms, exposures, laboratory findings, and outcomes. Methods We conducted a retrospective, descriptive case series of nine patients with laboratory-confirmed RVF from Kamonyi District, Rwanda, from November 2025 to December 2025. Demographic, clinical, and laboratory data were extracted from Rwanda’s routine Health Management Information System, which runs on the District Health Information Software 2 platform, and were summarized descriptively; no inferential testing was performed given the small sample. Proportions are reported with 95% confidence intervals. Results Nine patients were included (median age 21 years, range 3–31; five male and four female patients). Cases were distributed across seven of the district's 12 sectors over an approximately four-week period; the highest single-day count was three cases on November 25, 2025. Reported suspected exposures were contact with sick or dead animals (five of nine), handling of raw meat (two of nine) and consumption of unpasteurized milk (one of nine). Fever affected eight of nine patients (89%), headache six of nine (67%), and abdominal pain and vomiting five of nine (56%) each. Laboratory findings included hematological abnormalities and hepatocellular injury, with thrombocytopenia and elevated transaminases being the most consistent findings; renal function was largely preserved. One death occurred during the acute phase, giving a case-fatality rate of 11.1%. Conclusion Human RVF transmission in Kamonyi District followed a diffuse, multi-source pattern consistent with widespread livestock circulation across the district. Strengthening integrated One Health surveillance linking animal, human, and vector monitoring is critical to early outbreak detection and response in Rwanda and the broader region.
Tick bite fever (TBF) is a well-known zoonotic disease in southern Africa, caused by ixodid tick-transmitted rickettsial pathogens of the spotted fever group, which target endothelial cells, producing widespread vasculitis. Two epidemiologic and clinical forms of the condition can be distinguished, namely, African TBF and Mediterranean spotted fever–like infection. TBF is generally a mild illness, but delayed diagnosis and inappropriate treatment may lead to severe, potentially fatal, disease resembling bacterial sepsis, viral hemorrhagic fever, malaria, or other serious infections. Along with compatible epidemiologic history, common clinical diagnostic features at initial presentation are fever, headache, rash, myalgia and eschar; tender regional lymphadenopathy is common. Clinical diagnosis is sufficient to warrant treatment because serological response is slow to develop; although polymerase chain reaction of eschar material is an additional or alternative diagnostic option, this method may not be readily available. The treatment of choice is doxycycline, with macrolides as second-line antibiotics. Personal prevention revolves around awareness of risks and measures to limit exposure to ticks. As a zoonosis with a wide range of reservoir hosts, the disease cannot be eliminated but risk can be reduced by application of One Health principles.
Objectives: Urban pigeons (Columba livia) are synanthropic birds that live in close contact with human populations and interact continuously with urban environments, making them potential sentinels of environmental antimicrobial resistance. This study aimed to describe phenotypic antimicrobial resistance profiles and co-resistance patterns of Escherichia coli isolated from pigeon fecal samples in Arequipa, Peru. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in April 2025. Cloacal fecal samples were collected from pigeons at four sites representing different urban contexts. E. coli isolates were recovered and tested for antimicrobial susceptibility using the disk diffusion method. Multidrug resistance (MDR) and extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) phenotypes were determined using standard phenotypic criteria. Results: A total of 47 E. coli isolates were analyzed. Resistance was most frequently observed to tetracyclines (31.91%), followed by quinolones, including nalidixic acid (19.15%), and by amphenicols (17.02%) and macrolides (17.02%). Co-resistance to two or more antimicrobial classes was observed in 27.65% (13 of 47) of isolates, with recurrent patterns involving tetracyclines, quinolones, sulfonamides, and amphenicols. Overall, 12.77% (six of 47) of isolates met criteria for MDR, and 8.51% (four of 47) exhibited an ESBL phenotype. Conclusion: Phenotypic antimicrobial resistance, including MDR and ESBL-producing E. coli, was detected in intestinal isolates from urban pigeons in Arequipa. These findings support the potential role of synanthropic birds as sentinel species for monitoring environmental antimicrobial resistance in urban settings of low- and middle-income countries.
Objectives: Outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) continues to threaten poultry production. Available control measures, specifically, depopulation, encounter operational challenges in upland gamebirds due to their unique rearing conditions, complicating outbreak response. Gamebirds encompass bird species raised for hunting, with upland gamebirds and waterfowl being the two main representatives. This study evaluated experiences in depopulation of upland gamebirds in North America during HPAI H5N1 outbreaks to identify key challenges and gaps. Methods: We conducted a mixed-methods study, using survey and semi-structured interview, targeting upland gamebird producers across North America (n = 35). Results: Effective coordination between producers and depopulation teams were identified as aspects that worked well. Key challenges included prolonged response time, labor intensity, limited experience or training, inadequate preparedness, mental health impacts, and difficulties associated with prolonged personal protective equipment use. Areas for improvement included shortening response duration, strengthening preparedness, incorporating grower input, and improving documentation of losses. Anticipated future challenges included inefficient bird catching, improper housing for depopulation, and limited equipment availability. Conclusion: These findings support the need of sector-specific HPAI depopulation guidelines for upland gamebirds, targeted training for depopulation of outdoor-reared operations, advance planning and equipment procurement, and incorporation of producer input during preparedness and response efforts.
