Communicable Disease Threats Report, 1–7 November 2025
The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has released its Communicable Disease Threats Report (CDTR) for week 45, covering the period from 1 to 7 November 2025. The report reviews key infectious disease developments across the EU/EEA.
Main Updates
- Current patterns in respiratory virus epidemiology across EU/EEA
- New classifications of SARS-CoV-2 variants
- Ongoing monitoring of cholera, chikungunya, West Nile virus, dengue, MERS, Ebola, and Rift Valley Fever
Respiratory Diseases
Seasonal influenza remains a preventable infectious disease with primarily respiratory symptoms. It is caused by the influenza virus and spreads efficiently through droplets, direct contact, and indirectly via contaminated hands or surfaces.
Tropical and Vector-Borne Diseases
Dengue fever, transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, is widespread in tropical and subtropical areas. Most infected individuals develop a febrile illness, though severe cases may progress to hemorrhagic fever or shock, sometimes resulting in death.
Emerging Coronavirus Strains
The Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) is a beta coronavirus originating from animals, first detected in Saudi Arabia in September 2012. It differs from previously known coronaviruses such as SARS-CoV, which caused the 2003 SARS outbreaks.
The MERS-CoV is a new beta virus strain of an animal coronavirus that was first identified in Saudi Arabia in September 2012.
Summary
This report highlights the continuing global vigilance required for respiratory and mosquito-borne diseases, as well as the monitoring of emerging viral variants.
Author’s Summary
The November 2025 ECDC report underscores persistent viral threats across regions, emphasizing respiratory infections, dengue, and novel coronavirus variants.