News highlights on health security threats and countermeasures curated by Global Biodefense
This week’s selections include the largest ever outbreak of mpox in the DRC; launch of National Wastewater Surveillance Program dashboard; low uptake of COVID-19 boosters and flu vaccines; and developing animal models for CBRNE exposures.
POLICY + GOVERNMENT
Audit Finds US National Stockpile “Was Not Equipped” for the Pandemic
An audit conducted by the HHS Office of Inspector General concluded what we all are already acutely aware of: “the Stockpile could not meet demand and was not equipped to handle the COVID-19 pandemic.” Reliance on foreign supply chains, a past focus on responding to influenza outbreaks and CBRN incidents were cited as factors, as well as funding that hasn’t kept pace with its expanded role. Investigators also cited the absence of an annual review and implementation plan and a breakdown in communication when the lead federal agency response shifted early in the pandemic from HHS to FEMA. JAMA
Pfizer is Suing Poland Over COVID-19 Vaccines. This is How We Got Here
The lawsuit, which comes as Poland prepares for a change in government following its October election, marks the culmination of a 19-month struggle between Warsaw and Pfizer over a glut of vaccine doses. But the roots of the clash can be traced back further: to the enormous 1.1 billion-dose contract the European Commission signed with Pfizer in 2021, which has become controversial for the reported exchange of text messages between Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla in the run-up to negotiations. Politico
House Approves Ban on Gain-of-Function Pathogen Research
In a move that has rattled some in the biomedical research community, Republicans in the U.S. House of Representatives last night approved a ban on federal funding for “gain-of-function” (GOF) research that modifies risky pathogens in ways that can make them more harmful to people. Scientific groups say the vaguely worded provision could unintentionally halt a large swath of studies, from flu vaccine development to work on cold viruses. But they are hopeful that the Democratic-controlled Senate will not allow the measure to become law. Science
The Latest Ridiculous Legislative Posturing: Rosendale Moves to Strip Pathogen Research Funding from Rocky Mountain Laboratories
Earlier this month, eastern Montana’s Republican U.S. Rep. Matt Rosendale included an amendment in a federal appropriations bill to strip research funding from NIAID’s Rocky Mountain Laboratories in Hamilton, a key U.S. pathogen research facility, because of its prior work researching coronaviruses. The amendment was adopted in a voice vote. Another amendment Rosendale had offered sought to drop the salary for Vincent Munster, the chief of the virus ecology section at the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), to $1. The fervor over Rocky Mountain Laboratories and Rosendale’s subsequent amendment appear to stem from an article published Oct. 31 by the Daily Mail, a British tabloid, with the headline: “REVEALED: Anthony Fauci-run lab in MONTANA experimented with coronavirus strain shipped in from Wuhan a year BEFORE Covid pandemic began.” Daily Montanan
H.R. 6174, DHS Biodetection Improvement Act
H.R. 6174 would require the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), within 180 days of enactment, to report to the Congress on its use of the Department of Energy’s national laboratories and on a strategy to improve biodetection capabilities at DHS. The department’s efforts to prevent the use of biological and chemical weapons include testing and monitoring air quality for potential biological threats, conducting research, and promoting readiness against such attacks by partnering with state, local, and tribal governments. H.R. 6174 also would require DHS to provide an update on the strategy to the Congress within one year of enactment. Congressional Budget Office, GovTrack.us
Scientific Experts Provide Key Recommendations on Biotoxin Analysis to the OPCW
The Scientific Advisory Board (SAB) of the OPCW endorsed a report outlining key recommendations on biotoxin analysis and investigations of their alleged use as weapons submitted by a temporary working group earlier this year. There are two biotoxins subject to stringent verification measures under the Chemical Weapons Convention – ricin and saxitoxin – with many others also posing safety and security concerns. The report identifies nine biotoxins – of both low and high molecular weight – which are most likely to be used as weapons and most relevant for an investigation of alleged use. Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons
The UK Took Action Too Late During COVID-19 Pandemic’s First Wave, Its Top Medical Officer Says
The U.K. has one of the highest COVID-19 death tolls in Europe, with the virus recorded as a cause of death for more than 232,000 people. Many bereaved families say they were failed by politicians and policymakers whose actions contributed to unnecessary deaths and suffering. The inquiry’s current phase focuses on pandemic decision-making. Associated Press
MEDICAL COUNTERMEASURES
How Project NextGen Can Create Better Vaccines
The $5 billion Project NextGen announced earlier this year represents a pivotal step forward in the ongoing battle against infectious disease. It advances SARS-CoV-2 vaccine candidates that induce broader and more durable immunity, while exploring new delivery methods, like intranasal vaccination, that may increase transmission-blocking. We recently examined the existing Target Product Profile (TPP) criteria for Project NextGen, and believe that focusing on attributes that can foster broader protection and reduce viral transmission in particular will help ensure Project NextGen is a success. Institute for Progress
Functional Epitopes and Neutralizing Antibodies of Vaccinia Virus
Traditional smallpox vaccinations should usually be injected before exposure to viruses, and sometimes the vaccines might have unpredictable side effects. Human-sourced antiserum supply is limited, and its anti-viral efficacy is insufficient because of the low proportion of effective antibodies. Thus, the development of anti-smallpox antibodies is worthwhile. To date the development of mAbs against smallpox has yielded numerous drug candidates with good efficacy in vivo and in vitro, and notably antibody cocktails targeting multiple epitopes have proven more effective than monoclonal antibodies alone. Given epitope escape caused by virus mutation, the development of multivalent antibody drugs capable of recognizing multiple epitopes will be beneficial for treating viral infections. The neutralizing epitopes of vaccinia virus reviewed herein could be used as candidate fragments for epitope combinations. Moreover, we suggest that epitope combinations should include both EV and MV proteins. Frontiers in Microbiology
HSP90, a Common Therapeutic Target for Suppressing Skin Injury Caused by Exposure to Blister Agents
Development of effective and novel mechanism-based antidotes which can simultaneously block cutaneous toxic manifestations of distinct vesicants is important and urgently needed. Due to difficulties in determining the exact nature of onsite chemical exposure, a potent drug that can suppress widespread cutaneous damage may find a great utility. HSP90 was identified as a common molecular regulator of cutaneous inflammation and injury by two distinct warfare vesicants: arsenicals and mustards; and HSP90 inhibitors afford significant protection against skin damage. Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics
Innovative Approaches to COVID-19 Medical Countermeasure Development
Among the most influential trial designs are the adaptive platform designs, which have been applied to the development of initial COVID-19 antivirals, monoclonal antibodies, repurposing of existing immunomodulatory therapy and assisted in the disproof of ineffective medical therapies. Some of the most prominent examples include the REMAP-CAP, RECOVERY and TOGETHER trials. Adaptive platform trial designs hold great promise for utility in future pandemics and mass casualty events. Public–private sectoring is essential for rapid medical countermeasure development and should be further enhanced for future biopreparedness. Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy
Phase 2 Study of Two-Dose Heterologous Ad26.ZEBOV and MVA-BN-Filo Ebola Vaccine Regimen in Infants
Study found that the Ad26.ZEBOV and MVA-BN-Filo vaccine regimen was well tolerated in infants aged 4–11 months. The safety profile of Ad26.ZEBOV and MVA-BN-Filo observed in this study was comparable to that previously observed in other pediatric age groups. The two-dose Ad26.ZEBOV and MVA-BN-Filo Ebola vaccine regimen induced robust antibody responses in 100% of infants 21 days after receiving dose two. The serum antibody levels declined over the follow-up period, but 93% of the younger and 100% of the older infants were still considered responders 12 months post-dose 1. The Lancet Global Health
PharmaJet Begins VEE Vaccine Trial with Precision Delivery Systems
PharmaJet has started the first human clinical trial for a vaccine against Venezuelan Equine Encephalitis (VEE), using its Precision Delivery Systems for administration. The VEE DNA vaccine candidate is under assessment as part of a multi-year agreement between PharmaJet and the US DTRA. Clinical Trials Arena
An Mpox mRNA Vaccine That’s Outperforming Its Old-School Predecessor
A collaborative group of U.S. scientists is testing a candidate mRNA mpox nanoparticle vaccine with the hope of developing an immunization that is superior to the current mpox shot. “Although smallpox vaccines were rapidly deployed to curb spread and disease among those at highest risk, breakthrough disease was noted after complete immunization. Given the threat of additional zoonotic events and the virus’s evolving ability to drive human-to-human transmission, there is an urgent need for an mpox-specific vaccine that confers protection against evolving mpox strains and related orthopoxviruses.” Medical Xpress
Infants Can Access Ebola Vaccines During Outbreaks
Historically, there has been a reluctance to conduct clinical research and vaccine trials in children due to their unique vulnerabilities and ethical issues. Since the safety and immunogenicity of a new vaccine are not clearly defined, researchers are cautious when enrolling this vulnerable group. The study by Edward Man-Lik Choi and colleagues in The Lancet Global Health enriches the literature on the study designs and demonstrates that clinical trials can be safely and effectively done among children without compromising the ethics and integrity of the research. The researchers achieved a remarkable feat by surmounting the complexities of working with parents and guardians to enroll their infants in a randomized controlled vaccine trial across two countries. The Lancet Global Health
Animal Model Considerations for Medical Countermeasure Development for Radiation and Sulfur Mustard Exposures
Pulmonary exposure to either sulfur mustard vapor or radiation causes oxidative This review describes the clinical manifestations and underlying mechanisms of sulfur mustard and radiation-induced lung injury and regulatory considerations for MCM development under the non-traditional Animal Rule pathway. There remains a major unmet public health need for development of threat-agnostic, host-directed therapeutics that target common pathophysiological mechanisms underlying the progression of acute and/or late lung injury independent of the etiology of disease. Disaster Medicine and Public Health Preparedness
Both Chimpanzee Adenovirus-Vectored and DNA Vaccines Induced Long-Term Immunity Against Nipah Virus Infection
Nipah virus (NiV) is a highly lethal zoonotic paramyxovirus that poses a severe threat to humans due to its high morbidity and the lack of viable countermeasures. In this paper, a recombinant chimpanzee adenovirus-based vaccine (AdC68-G) and a DNA vaccine (DNA-G) were developed. The heterologous DNA-G/AdC68-G prime/boost approach induced higher T-cell responses and neutralizing antibody levels, while a single dose of AdC68-G was sufficient to elicit a strong immune response in mice. NPJ Vaccines
Advancements In Rift Valley Fever Vaccines: Prospects For Next Generation Candidates
There have been many reported RVF candidate vaccines including whole inactivated vaccines, live-attenuated vaccines, vector vaccines, replicon vaccines, subunit vaccine, virus-like particle vaccines, DNA vaccines. Currently, there are no licensed RVF vaccines for human use. However, formalin-inactivated TSI-GSD-200 and live-attenuated MP-12 vaccines have undergone clinical trials in the past. CEPI has provided funding to support accelerated phase I and II clinical trials for RVFV-4s and DDVax candidate vaccines. Promising RVF candidate vaccines, such as hRVFV-4s and ChAdOx1 RVF, have entered phase I clinical trials in 2022. NPJ Vaccines
BIOSECURITY + BIOPREPAREDNESS
Artificial Intelligence and Synthetic Biology are Not Harbingers of Doom
AI can be a positive force in advancing biological research and biotechnology — and insights from biology can power the next wave of AI for the benefit of humankind. Private and public-sector leaders need to make near-term decisions and actions to lay the foundation for maximizing the benefits of AI and biotech. Stimson Center
Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Associated with Bioterrorism Preparedness in Healthcare Workers
This study found that current research is more focused on bioterrorism agents, while research on bioterrorism detection is still relatively limited. Early identification capabilities are crucial to reducing casualties, initiating appropriate treatment, and protecting resources. Current research on early identification focuses on the symptoms and signs caused by the disease, and there is a lack of research on epidemiological patterns. Frontiers in Public Health
8Base Ransomware Gang Threat to Healthcare and Public Health Sector
A recent attack on a U.S.-based medical facility in October 2023 highlights the potential threat of the data-extortion cybercrime operation, 8Base, to the Healthcare and Public Health (HPH) sector. Active since March 2022, 8Base became highly active in the summer of 2023, focusing their indiscriminate targeting on multiple sectors primarily across the United States. This surge in operational activity included the group’s engagement in double extortion tactics as an affiliate of Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS) groups against mostly small- to medium-sized companies. HHS Health Sector Cybersecurity Coordination Center
Beyond Biosecurity by Taxonomic Lists: Lessons, Challenges, and Opportunities
We now have a wealth of experience in using taxonomic lists as a biosecurity tool for controlling access to pathogenic organisms and toxins. Their use is based on an assumption that taxonomy can be directly linked to biological function; however, other approaches, such as sequence lists or tools that predict function, may be more suitable to capture biological functions that cause concern. Health Security
Healthcare and Public Health Sector Perspectives
In 2021, there were 139.8 million visits to emergency departments, with 40 million of those injury-related and 13.1% of visits requiring hospitalization. An additional 131 million Americans, or two-thirds of the adult population, use prescription drugs to manage their health. U.S. nursing homes operate at over 70% capacity, and more than 60% of beds in 5,157 community healthcare facilities are occupied. With this demand, connections, and dependencies so important to daily life, it is essential for emergency managers, sector leaders, and officials at all levels to identify potential weaknesses and improve resilience. Domestic Preparedness
The Need to Establish and Sustain Public Health Emergency Operation Centers for Managing Infectious Disease Outbreaks
Emerging infectious diseases (EID) are rapidly increasing in incidence and geographic ranges. The establishment of a dedicated Public Health Emergency Operation Center (PHEOC) and sustaining its operations despite the decline in the number of COVID-19 cases have helped to impede other types of outbreaks in resource-limited settings like Ethiopia. Lessons learned described here can be used in the response and management of other outbreaks like measles, cholera, malaria, yellow fever, and dengue fever. Multi-sectorial collaboration and coordination focusing on capacity building at all levels are also essential to prepare for and respond to public health emergencies of any type. Disaster Medicine and Public Health Preparedness
Assessing US Small Animal Veterinary Clinic Adaptations and Their Impacts on Workforce COVID-19 Preparedness and Response
Veterinary personnel are an essential yet often underappreciated workforce, critical for zoonotic disease prevention and response efforts that impact human health. During the early COVID-19 pandemic, the veterinary workforce supported emergency responses by promoting zoonotic disease risk communication, sharing animal health expertise, and boosting laboratory surge capacity against SARS-CoV-2 in animals and people. However, small animal veterinary workers (SAVWs), similar to healthcare workers, faced organizational challenges in providing clinical care to family pets, including those susceptible to SARS-CoV-2. Health Security
Nikki Teran Worries the Government Isn’t Doing Enough to Address Biosecurity Risks
Nearly four years after the SARS-CoV-2 virus spread from Wuhan, some 28 million people worldwide have died prematurely in the ensuing pandemic. Governments spent trillions managing the public health emergency, the economic emergency, and the challenge to social order posed by the disease. Yet there’s little indication that governments are making the modest investments necessary to prevent another virus from killing tens of millions of people (or even more). Vox
SELECT AGENTS + PRIORITY PATHOGENS
CDC Guidelines for the Prevention and Treatment of Anthrax, 2023
This report updates previous CDC guidelines and recommendations on preferred prevention and treatment regimens regarding naturally occurring anthrax. Also provided are a wide range of alternative regimens to first-line antimicrobial drugs for use if patients have contraindications or intolerances or after a wide-area aerosol release of Bacillus anthracis spores if resources become limited or a multidrug-resistant B. anthracis strain is used. MMWR
Swine Flu: UK Detects First Human Case of New Strain
The A(H1N2)v infection was detected in a routine flu screening test at a GP surgery in North Yorkshire. Officials said the person had respiratory symptoms, a mild illness and had fully recovered. They are not known to have worked with pigs and investigations will look at where the infection came from and its risk to human health. BBC
Structure and Function of the EA1 Surface Layer of Bacillus Anthracis
Report of a complete model of the EA1 S-layer and present a set of nanobodies that may have therapeutic potential against Bacillus anthracis. Nature Communications
Mpox Outbreak Alert – Democratic Republic of the Congo
From 1 January through 12 November 2023, a total of 12,569 suspected mpox cases, including 581 suspected mpox deaths (case fatality ratio: 4.6%), have been reported in 156 health zones from 22 out of 26 (85%) provinces in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. This is the highest number of annual cases ever reported, with new cases in geographic areas that had previously not reported mpox, including Kinshasa, Lualaba, and South Kivu. Among suspected cases, 1106 were tested by RT-PCR, and 714 were positive for MPXV (positivity rate of 65%). Cases with travel history to endemic provinces have been driving chains of human-to-human transmission in non-affected provinces. More recent reports of human-to-human transmission of mpox in large urban areas such as Kinshasa clearly illustrate that the epidemiology of mpox in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is changing. World Health Organization
Mpox Kills 600 in Largest Ever DRC Outbreak
According to the WHO, “this event is unusual and highlights the risk that MPXV clade I could also be widely spread among sexual networks, as seen for clade II during the 2022-23 global outbreak.” The Telegraph
Researchers Detect Monkeypox Virus in Testes of Nonhuman Primate Survivors
For the first time, scientists have detected monkeypox virus in the testes of macaques during the acute phase of infection, according to research published online in the journal Nature Microbiology. In addition, the team found preliminary evidence of persistent infection in two animals that survived challenge with the virus. Their results highlight the potential for sexual transmission of the virus in humans. Today’s Clinical Lab
Rift Valley Fever — The Need for an Integrated Response
Uganda is currently experiencing an outbreak of Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV). This outbreak is part of a growing problem; 39 countries in Africa and the Arabian Peninsula have reported RVFV outbreaks, involving about 1000 total confirmed deaths, since 1999. The World Health Organization (WHO) has identified RVF as one of nine priority diseases because of its potential to cause outbreaks, and health care practitioners remain without vaccines licensed for use in humans, treatments that have been proven effective, or adequate diagnostic and surveillance tools.2 Because of this lack of diagnostic and surveillance tools, the true prevalence of RVF is unknown. New England Journal of Medicine
AVIAN INFLUENZA
Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza A(H5N1) in Foxes Identified as a Novel Mammalian Adaptation
The global spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) A(H5Nx) clade 2.3.4.4b has resulted in an unprecedented number of spillover events to wild and domestic mammals, leading to public health concerns over the increased zoonotic risks posed. This report presents the first confirmed cases of mammalian infection with HPAI A(H5N1) clade 2.3.4.4b in Northern Ireland, affecting two red foxes. Eurosurveillance
Mass Mortality of Sea Lions Caused by Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza A(H5N1) Virus
Report of a massive mortality of 5,224 sea lions in Peru that seemed to be associated with highly pathogenic avian influenza A(H5N1) virus infection. The transmission pathway may have been through the close contact of sea lions with infected wild birds. Emerging Infectious Diseases
Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza A(H5N1) from Wild Birds, Poultry, and Mammals, Peru
Here researchers identified highly pathogenic avian influenza A(H5N1) virus clade 2.3.4.4b in wild birds, poultry, and a lion in Peru during November 2022–February 2023 and markers associated with transmission adaptation and antiviral drug resistance. Continuous genomic surveillance is needed to inform public health measures and avoid mass animal deaths. Emerging Infectious Diseases
CHEMICAL + RADIOLOGICAL THREATS
Underestimations in the In Silico-Predicted Toxicities of V-Agents
Although chemical weapons have been banned under the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC), there is an increased concern for chemical terrorism. Thus, it is important to understand their properties and toxicities, especially since some of these agents are not included in the CWC list. To achieve this goal, the testing of a huge number of compounds is needed. Alternatively, in silico toxicology offers a great advantage for the rapid assessment of toxic compounds. Here, various in silico tools (TEST, VEGA, pkCSM ProTox-II) were used to estimate the acute oral toxicity (LD50) of different V-agents and compare them with experimental values. All these tools were found to underestimate the toxicity of V-agents and in some cases even predict that the agent is almost non-toxic. Thus, LD50 prediction for V-agents should be cautiously used since they may significantly deviate from the actual values and further experimental works should be carried out to understand the chemical and toxicological properties of these agents. Journal of Xenobiotics
Why Cheap Drones Pose Significant Chemical Terrorism Threat
Earlier this year, police in the United Kingdom a suspect building a 3D-printed drone designed to deliver chemical weapons or explosives. Relatively cheap drones are becoming a mainstay of conflicts, from the war in Ukraine to the Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza. Drones can now fairly cheaply be equipped with sprayers to deliver chemical weapons, or used in an attack on a chemical plant. They could also provide critical attack support, helping with reconnaissance to plan out and conduct an attack, monitor law enforcement response, and create propaganda to highlight terrorist activities. Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists
Continued US and Allied Integration is Essential to Deter Russian CBRN Use
This report presents the findings and recommendations of the Atlantic Council project, Conceptualizing Integrated Deterrence to Address Russian Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) Escalation. The objective of this project was to develop an approach for incorporating European allies and partners into the US model of integrated deterrence against Russian CBRN use. Atlantic Council
Computer-Assisted Evaluation of Small Airway Disease in CT Scans of Iran-Iraq War Victims of Chemical Warfare
Chemical warfare survivors experience late pulmonary sequelae, including chronic bronchitis, bronchiolitis obliterans, pulmonary fibrosis, emphysema, and bronchiectasis. Small airway disease is the most common presentation of pulmonary injury among chemical warfare survivors. This retrospective case–control study applies a software methodology to identify and quantify small airway disease in CT scans of Iran-Iraq War victims of chemical warfare. BMC Medical Imaging
A Trilogy of Articles Exploring the Historic Elimination of the World’s Declared Stockpiles of Chemical Weapons
This short report includes a trilogy of writings on the 2023 milestone of all the world’s declared chemical weapons being destroyed. Council on Strategic Risks
SURVEILLANCE + DETECTION
Sequence Optimized Diagnostic Assay for Ebola Virus Detection
Rapid pathogen identification is a critical first step in patient isolation, treatment, and controlling an outbreak. Limited genomic sequences for rare pathogens such as Ebola virus can negatively impact assay performance due to undiscovered genetic diversity. Here researchers assessed the impact sequence mismatches have on EBOV assay performance, finding one or two primer or probe mismatches resulted in a range of impact from minimal to almost two log sensitivity reduction. Redesigning this assay improved detection of all EBOV variants tested. Scientific Reports
Characterization of Close Bacillus anthracis Isolates and Toxin Profile Diversity in the Bacillus cereus Group
Unexpected atypical isolates of Bacillus cereus s.l. occasionally challenge conventional microbiology and even the most advanced techniques for anthrax detection. For anticipating and gaining trust, 65 isolates of Bacillus cereus s.l. of diverse origin were sequenced and characterized. Microorganisms
Processing Biological Samples from Simulated Radiological Terrorist Events Using Rapid DNA Instruments
Two commercially available portable Rapid DNA instruments were evaluated for their ability to process 1 µL and 10 µL saliva samples deposited on metal and plastic surfaces and contaminated with surrogates of cesium (Cs)-137, strontium (Sr)-90 and cobalt (Co)-60; radioactive materials potentially released during a nuclear weapon accident or a radiological dispersal device detonation. Forensic Science International
Genomic Characterization of SARS-CoV-2 from Uganda Using MinION Nanopore Sequencing
Study characterized 49 SARS-CoV-2 samples from Uganda using MinION Nanopore sequencing. Overall, the ARTIC protocol used was able to generate the required libraries for successful sequencing on the long-read sequencer. MinION Oxford Nanopore technology enabled the identification of structural variations, one of the aims of the study. Scientific Reports
RT-PCR for Venezuelan Equine Encephalitis Complex, Madariaga, and Eastern Equine Encephalitis Viruses
Detecting these mosquito-borne alphaviruses is hindered by non-specific symptoms and limited diagnostic tools. Researchers report here on a rRT-PCR developed for VEEV complex, MADV and EEV using whole-genome sequences, validated in human and mosquito samples. Journal of Clinical Microbiology
Evaluation of Lateral Flow Devices for Postmortem Rabies Diagnosis in Animals
Expansion of the use of lateral flow devices (LFD) for animal rabies diagnosis can help mitigate the widespread underreporting of rabies. Thirteen governmental animal diagnostic laboratories in the Philippines were involved in this study, and 791 animals suspected of having rabies were tested using both the direct fluorescence antibody test (DFAT) and ADTEC LFD. Journal of Clinical Microbiology
CDC Revamps Wastewater COVID Data Reporting
The CDC this week unveiled the National Wastewater Surveillance Program dashboard, making it easier to track local and national wastewater data trends. Currently, the dashboard reflects high wastewater viral levels nationally for SARS-CoV-2. CIDRAP, CDC
ENVIRONMENTAL FLUX
A ‘Tropical Disease’ Carried By Sand Flies is Confirmed in a New Country: The U.S.
The parasite responsible for most infections within the U.S., called Leishmania mexicana, causes only the cutaneous form of leishmaniasis rather than the more severe visceral leishmaniasis (the latter affects internal organs rather than the skin and is generally fatal if not treated). The CDC research shows that these parasites are genetically distinct from ones picked up abroad, making clear that they have made a home for themselves in the United States. NPR
INFECTIOUS DISEASES
Pneumonia Outbreak in Kids in China Linked to Known Pathogens
The surge in respiratory infections in young children in northern China is being driven primarily by known viral and bacterial infections and not by a novel pathogen. The increase in outpatient consultations and hospital admissions of children in China is linked to increased circulation of pneumonia caused by Mycoplasma pneumoniae—commonly known as “walking pneumonia”—since May and a more recent uptick in respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), adenovirus, and influenza. CIDRAP
Evidence of the Zoonotic Transmission of Cryptosporidium among Children and Pets
There are few reports on the zoonotic transmission of Cryptosporidium among children and dogs and cats in households but it is unclear whether these pets play a minor role on the epidemiology of cryptosporidiosis or if this low occurrence is underestimated because it is still under-investigated. Hence, we investigated the zoonotic transmission of Cryptosporidium species among children and dogs and cats living in the same households, and analyzed the risk factors of infection. Pathogens
Dengue Is Spreading. Can New Vaccines and Antivirals Halt Its Rise?
Dengue is on the march. More than 4.2 million cases of the mosquito-borne disease had been reported by 2 October, compared with half a million in 2000. Once confined to the tropics, dengue is spreading to new locations around the world, including southern Europe.There is no specific treatment for dengue, which is also known as breakbone fever and can cause fever, bone pain and even death. The available vaccines have important limitations, and controlling the mosquitoes that transmit the disease is challenging. Nature
Measles Cases and Deaths Rose at “Staggering” Rate Last Year, WHO and CDC Report
Cases of the highly contagious disease increased by 18% to 9 million between 2021 and 2022, according to the report. Deaths increased 43% to 136,000 — mostly among children. 37 countries, most in Africa, had “large or disruptive” outbreaks last year, up from 22 countries in 2021. There was some “modest” improvement in administration of the two-dose measles vaccine last year, but 22 million kids missed their first dose and 11 million missed their second. Axios
Thousands More Doses of RSV Shot for Infants Expedited for Release Amid Shortage
Amid an ongoing shortage of nirsevimab, an RSV immunization for young children, the CDC has announced that more than 77,000 additional doses will be distributed “immediately.” Nirsevimab, marketed as Beyfortus, is a long-acting monoclonal antibody administered as an injection to protect infants against severe illness from respiratory syncytial virus infections. CNN
Zimbabwe Declares State of Emergency in Harare Over Cholera
The outbreak has so far killed dozens of people with more than 7,000 suspected cases. The authorities are now asking for help to contain the spread and provide safe water, saying the aid being received is inadequate. BBC
ANTIMICROBIAL RESISTANCE CRISIS
New Weapons to Fight against Staphylococcus aureus Skin Infections
This review describes the various platforms currently being investigated for novel treatments against S. aureus skin and soft tissue infections. The preclinical data obtained so far suggest that these treatments could enhance bacterial eradication, lessen side effects, and, in some cases, even reduce the frequency of drug-resistance development. Antibiotics
Rapid Spread of Highly Drug-Resistant Klebsiella Pneumoniae in Greek Hospitals
A joint study of the National Public Health Organization in Greece (NPHO) and the ECDC conducted in 15 Greek hospitals in 2022 sheds light on the rapid spread of carbapenemase-producing, highly drug-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae sequence type (ST) 39, following its initial documentation in a European-wide genomic survey in 2019. European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control
Bleach Does Not Kill Common Superbug, Study Finds
Research by the University of Plymouth showed spores of Clostridium difficile are completely unaffected despite being treated with high concentrations of bleach used in many hospitals. “…far from demonstrating that our clinical environments are clean and safe for staff and patients, this study highlights the ability of C. diff spores to tolerate disinfection at in-use and recommended active chlorine concentrations.” BBC
COVID-19 PANDEMIC
WHO Upgrades BA.2.86 to COVID-19 Variant of Interest as US Proportions Grow
The World Health Organization last week reclassified the Omicron BA.2.86 variant—and its offshoots, including JN.1—as a variant of interest as global proportions grow, including in the United States, where it now makes up about 9% of circulating viruses. The immune escape potential for BA.2.86 will vary by country, based on other circulating variants, population immunity, and vaccine coverage, but it won’t likely be as dramatic as when Omicron emerged in Delta’s wake, the WHO said. CIDRAP
Fall COVID Shot Uptake is an Abysmal 7 Percent
More than a month since US health officials recommended updated COVID-19 vaccines for all Americans, only 7.1 percent of US adults have rolled up their sleeves for the shot and just 2.1 percent of children have been immunized. The rate may partly reflect a rocky rollout for this year’s updated shots, which were for the first time distributed on the commercial market rather than via a federal distribution system. Early on, people seeking the updated shots reported encountering limited supplies, cancelled pharmacy appointments, and billing chaos. ARS Technica
Pandemic Revisionism: Historical Narratives About the COVID-19 Pandemic are Motivationally Biased
How people recall the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic is likely to prove crucial in future societal debates on pandemic preparedness and appropriate political action. Historical narratives about the COVID-19 pandemic are motivationally biased, sustain societal polarization and affect preparation for future pandemics. Consequently, future measures must look beyond immediate public-health implications to the longer-term consequences for societal cohesion and trust. Nature
Declines in Influenza Vaccination Coverage Among Health Care Personnel in Acute Care Hospital
This study of a large national surveillance system found that influenza vaccination coverage among HCP in acute care hospitals has declined since the COVID-19 pandemic. Similar to reports from previous influenza seasons, nonemployee licensed independent practitioners were consistently found to have lower vaccination coverage compared with employees. MMWR
Evaluation of the US COVID-19 Scenario Modeling Hub for Informing Pandemic Response Under Uncertainty
Since December 2020, the U.S. COVID-19 Scenario Modeling Hub (SMH) has convened multiple modeling teams to make months ahead projections of SARS-CoV-2 burden, totaling nearly 1.8 million national and state-level projections. Here, we find SMH performance varied widely as a function of both scenario validity and model calibration. We show scenarios remained close to reality for 22 weeks on average before the arrival of unanticipated SARS-CoV-2 variants invalidated key assumptions. An ensemble of participating models that preserved variation between models (using the linear opinion pool method) was consistently more reliable than any single model in periods of valid scenario assumptions, while projection interval coverage was near target levels. SMH projections were used to guide pandemic response, illustrating the value of collaborative hubs for longer-term scenario projections. Nature Communications
FDA Clears Way for Marketing First OTC COVID-19 Antigen Test
ACON Laboratories’ Flowflex COVID-19 Antigen Home Test, originally authorized for emergency use in 2021, is now the second home COVID-19 test to successfully complete a traditional FDA premarket review pathway, and the first indicated for use in children under 18. Contagion Live
HISTORICAL REFLECTIONS
Investigating the Smallpox Blanket Controversy
One explanation for the catastrophic effect of European infectious diseases on Indigenous people originates with differences in societal evolution between the Old and New Worlds. Studies have shown that host-pathogen coevolution promotes both general and specific resistance to pathogens and improves host immune responses to non-native and emerging threats. Agricultural settlements encroach on natural ecosystems, increasing interaction between species, and providing opportunities for zoonotic pathogen emergence. However, because farming and urbanization took a vastly different form in the Americas with few domesticated animal species, there were fewer immune system development opportunities. By the time the Indigenous people were first exposed to smallpox, variola had evolved to only spread from human contact. American Society for Microbiology
SPECIAL INTEREST
The Demon In The Freezer: Summary and Review
From the high-security lab of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to the remote depths of the Russian tundra, this book delves into the dangerous world of bioterrorism, recounting the ominous race against time to prevent a global catastrophe. Brimming with suspense and scientific insight, The Demon in the Freezer captures the terrifying reality of our vulnerable world and the race to safeguard humanity against a silent but deadly adversary. BooKey
Biosafety Honor Awards 2023
Read about this year’s ABSA honorees noted for their leadership and contributions to enhance the biosafety and biosecurity profession. ABSA International
PAHO Announces Malaria Champions of the Americas 2023
The awards were presented at an event to celebrate Malaria Day in the Americas, which takes place on November 6. During the meeting, PAHO and its partners acknowledged the national and subnational efforts of these countries, as well as the impact the projects have had in addressing malaria and improving the health of their populations. Pan American Health Organization
Introducing the Winners of the 2023 Next Generation for Biosecurity Competition
NTI, in partnership with the Next Generation for Global Health Security (GHS) Network (NextGen), the iGEM Foundation, SynBio Africa, Global Health Security Network (GHSN), and 80,000 Hours, have selected the winners of the seventh annual Next Generation for Biosecurity Competition. NTI
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A single-dose of intranasal vaccination with a live-attenuated SARS-CoV-2 vaccine candidate promotes protective mucosal and systemic immunity. NPJ Vaccines
Identification of CCZ1 as an essential lysosomal trafficking regulator in Marburg and Ebola virus infections. Nature Communications
Genetic evidence for the interaction between Bacillus anthracis-encoded phage receptors and their cognate phage-encoded receptor binding proteins. Frontiers in Microbiology
Seven classes of antiviral agents. Cellular and Molecular Life Sciences
Lophomonas as a respiratory pathogen—jumping the gun. Journal of Clinical Microbiology
Sequential vaccinations with divergent H1N1 influenza virus strains induce multi-H1 clade neutralizing antibodies in swine. Nature Communications
Use of a point-of-care test to rapidly assess levels of SARS-CoV-2 nasal neutralising antibodies in vaccinees and breakthrough infected individuals. Scientific Reports
Enhancing breadth and durability of humoral immune responses in non-human primates with an adjuvanted group 1 influenza hemagglutinin stem antigen. NPJ Vaccines
Stability of the Virucidal Activity of Commercial Disinfectants against Avian Influenza Viruses under Different Environmental Conditions. Pathogens
Infection Control and Prevention During the COVID-19 Pandemic. Clinical Infectious Diseases