Measles:
COVID-19, slow increase, Europe: On 13 June 2025, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) reported a mild increase in SARS-CoV-2 activity across the EU/EEA, partly linked to the new Omicron-descendant variant NB.1.8.1, which has caused rises in infections in Asia. This variant is classified as a ‘variant under monitoring’ by both ECDC and WHO. Despite the uptick, respiratory consultations remain at typical seasonal levels, and no significant increases in severe outcomes like hospitalizations or deaths have been observed. ECDC does not expect NB.1.8.1 to pose a higher public health risk than other Omicron variants or to reduce vaccine effectiveness against severe disease. However, after a winter with low virus circulation, population immunity—especially among older adults and high-risk groups—may have waned, raising vulnerability as cases rise.
Chikungunya, local transmission, France: Two cases of local transmission of chikungunya virus were confirmed sperate departments (Hérault, Occitanie, and in La Crau, Var, respectively). The presence of Aedes mosquitoes, especially Ae. albopictus, facilitates ongoing transmission. Since May 2025, Occitanie has reported 59 imported chikungunya and 40 dengue cases, with elevated importation pressure and favorable early summer conditions enhancing transmission risk. France remains vulnerable to localized outbreaks as Aedes mosquitoes are now established in 71 departments. Climate change and rising temperatures extend vector activity and promote northward spread, increasing the risk of outbreaks in previously unaffected regions.
West Nile virus and other arthropod-borne infections, USA (national): In 2023, the United States reported 2,238 cases of West Nile virus (WNV), predominantly during July - September. Notably, three WNV cases were linked to organ transplants from two donors. Powassan virus disease cases increased to 49, setting a new record, with cases distributed from April to December. La Crosse virus remained the leading cause of arboviral disease among children, with most cases being neuroinvasive. The report underscores the importance of timely surveillance and recommends clinicians to consider arboviral testing for patients with acute febrile or neurologic illnesses during peak mosquito and tick activity.
The ESCMID-AUMC Epi Alert, a strategic collaboration between the ESCMID Emerging Infections Subcommittee and the Center of Tropical Medicine and Travel Medicine of Amsterdam University Medical Center (AUMC) that integrates expertise and resources to advance emerging infectious diseases surveillance and intelligence sharing. This collaboration integrates ESCMID's extensive international network and emerging infections expertise with AUMC's proven surveillance capabilities, led by Dr. Abraham Goorhuis and the AUMC team.
The Epi Alert aims for weekly publication, with frequency adapted to emerging threats. The briefings are curated by infectious disease specialists prioritising data from trusted sources (WHO, ECDC, CDC, ProMED) based on potential impact, geographic region and urgency/relevancy to clinical practice. It aims to provide concise summaries for busy healthcare professionals with direct links for further investigation and transparency.
This integrated collaboration represents a significant milestone in ESCMID's commitment to emerging infections preparedness, strengthening our collective capacity to detect, analyse, and respond to infectious disease threats through international cooperation.
Since the previous update on 5 May 2025, and as of 12 May 2025, nine new MERS-CoV cases—including two deaths—have been reported by health authorities in Saudi Arabia, bringing the total number of cases this year to ten.
Seven of the recent cases were part of the same cluster in Riyadh, including one patient with no history of contact with camels and six healthcare workers who acquired nosocomial infections from that patient in early May.
The risk of sustained human-to-human transmission in Europe remains very low. However, the current MERS-CoV situation is concerning, as this rise in cases comes just two weeks ahead of the Mecca pilgrimage—a period typically associated with high international travel.
Since April 2012, and as of 12 May 2025, a total of 2,638 confirmed MERS cases—including 957 deaths—have been reported globally.
A Marburg virus disease (MVD) outbreak is evolving in Rwanda, East Africa. As of 7 October 2024, over 40 confirmed MVD cases have been reported, mainly in healthcare facilities in Kigali, with many healthcare workers affected. This outbreak represents a spread from known endemic areas to urban settings, including nosocomial transmission in Kigali hospitals. While outbreaks are typically limited to remote areas, this one spans across Rwanda, with potential for satellite cases and further spread. No vaccines or treatments are currently available.
This compilation includes the latest news, publications, and resources, covering recent developments such as vaccine distribution in Africa and WHO policy updates. It provides links to '2022-2024 Mpox Outbreak: Global Trends,' which features interactive dashboards and epidemiological data. This update offers a brief overview of the developments of the mpox situation for healthcare professionals, researchers, and policymakers.
As of August 2024, the world is facing a significant mpox outbreak, primarily affecting countries in Central and East Africa, particularly the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and neighbouring countries, with cases reported across several regions. The outbreak is characterised by the sustained human-to-human transmission of the clade I monkeypox virus (MPXV).
This ESCMID EIS mpox commentary provides up-to-date, evidence-based information on mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) for healthcare professionals, researchers, and public health officials.