MedWorm: Outbreaks

More Measles in the Heartland and at the Super Bowl

About.com Pediatrics — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 18:00:50 +0100

After reports of 6 cases of measles in Kansas last week, there are new reports of two confirmed and two probable cases of measles in Indiana. Of course measles in the Midwest isn't new. Last year, there were large outbreaks of measles...Read Full Post (Source: About.com Pediatrics)

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Difficult to see how C. diff spreads in hospital

NHS News Feed — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 10:27:00 +0100

Conclusion This research is important because it suggests that the previous assumption that all C.difficile is spread on wards through contact with infected patients may not be entirely correct. As the authors point out, this means that transmission may not be adequately controlled by current strategies, which focus on preventing person-to-person spread. Further study is required to look at how the infection is transmitted. It’s worth noting that the research concentrated on established cases of Clostridium difficile and the potential transmission between infected patients. As such, it did not look at how far C. difficile may have been stopped from spreading in the wards by current hospital prevention strategies. Infection control measures in the NHS and private hospitals remain valid be...

New Insight Into 2011 E. coli Outbreaks In Europe Provided By Whole-Genome Sequencing

Health News from Medical News Today — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 09:00:00 +0100

Using whole-genome sequencing, a team led by researchers from Harvard School of Public Health (HSPH) and the Broad Institute has traced the path of the E. coli outbreak that sickened thousands and killed over 50 people in Germany in summer 2011 and also caused a smaller outbreak in France. It is one of the first uses of genome sequencing to study the dynamics of a food-borne outbreak and provides further evidence that genomic tools can be used to investigate future outbreaks and provide greater insight into the emergence and spread of infectious diseases... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Avian influenza – situation in Viet Nam - update

WHO Disease Outbreaks — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 09:00:00 +0100

The Ministry of Health (MoH) has announced a confirmed case of human infection with avian influenza A (H5N1) virus. (Source: WHO Disease Outbreaks)

Chronic fatigue syndrome after Giardia enteritis: clinical characteristics, disability and long-term sickness absence.

BMC Gastroenterology — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: After giardiasis enteritis at least 5% developed clinical characteristics and functional impairment comparable to previously described post-infectious fatigue syndrome. (Source: BMC Gastroenterology)

Is a single dose of meningococcal serogroup C conjugate vaccine sufficient for protection? Experience from the Netherlands

BMC Infectious Diseases — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

DiscussionSince 2001, the MenC conjugate vaccine has been implemented in the Netherlands by offering a single dose to all children aged 14 months. Prior to the introduction of the vaccine into the national immunisation programme, a catch-up vaccination campaign was initiated in which a single dose of the MenC conjugate vaccine was offered to all children aged from 14 months up to and including 18 years. Since then, there has been no report of any case of MenC disease among immunocompetent vaccinees. Administration of a single dose of MenC conjugate vaccine after infancy could be beneficial considering the already complex immunisation schedules with large numbers of vaccinations in the first year of life. The present paper deals with the advantages and critical aspects of a single dose of t...

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Closing schools during pandemic effective

Health News - UPI.com — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 01:40:31 +0100

HAMILTON, Ontario, Feb. 7 (UPI) -- Closing schools is effective in slowing the spread of infectious disease and should be considered during pandemic outbreaks, researchers in Canada suggest. (Source: Health News - UPI.com)

Caribbean cruise cut short by illness

CNN.com - Health — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 23:44:26 +0100

Passengers on the Crown Princess are coming home early from a Caribbean cruise, thanks to a second nasty outbreak of gastrointestinal illness. (Source: CNN.com - Health)

As A Control Measure During Pandemic Outbreaks, School Closures Should Be Considered

Health News from Medical News Today — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 09:00:00 +0100

Closing elementary and secondary schools can help slow the spread of infectious disease and should be considered as a control measure during pandemic outbreaks, according to a McMaster University led study. Using high-quality data about the incidence of influenza infections in Alberta during the 2009 H1N1 flu pandemic, the researchers show that when schools closed for the summer, the transmission of infection from person to person was sharply reduced... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Freezing weather causes outbreak of potentially fatal winter vomiting bug

the Mail online | Health — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 08:44:39 +0100

Health experts are worried that outbreaks of noruvirus, which causes violent sickness and diarrohea, could affect many more people if the icy conditions persist. (Source: the Mail online | Health)

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Harmful Bacteria On Raw Chicken Reduced By A Zap Of Cold Plasma

Health News from Medical News Today — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 08:00:00 +0100

A new study by food safety researchers at Drexel University demonstrates that plasma can be an effective method for killing pathogens on uncooked poultry. The proof-of-concept study was published in the Journal of Food Protection. Although recent high-profile outbreaks of foodborne illness have involved contaminated fresh produce, the most common source of harmful bacteria in food is uncooked poultry and other meat products. The bacteria responsible for most foodborne illnesses, Campylobacter and Salmonella, are found on upwards of 70 percent of chicken meat tested... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Chile blames wildfires for rats spreading hantavirus

CTV Health — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 17:09:48 +0100

Chile has declared a public health alert with a hantavirus outbreak killing three people and infecting 10 others. (Source: CTV Health)

Zimbabwe: Typhoid Exposes City Council

AllAfrica News: Health and Medicine — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 12:15:29 +0100

[Financial Gazette] The recent outbreak of typhoid within the capital city, Harare, has brought with it immeasurable stress to both communities and the still-unwholesome public health delivery system, which is likely to be overwhelmed by a likely degeneration of the current crisis due to lack of urgency by government and local authorities in dealing with the scourge. (Source: AllAfrica News: Health and Medicine)

Zimbabwe: 'More Typhoid Outbreaks Imminent'

AllAfrica News: Health and Medicine — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 06:58:40 +0100

[The Herald] Chinhoyi - GOVERNMENT says the typhoid outbreak is under control, but is worried that some of the cases could have evolved to carrier state, making prospects of further outbreaks imminent. (Source: AllAfrica News: Health and Medicine)

While government discredits raw milk, it keeps names of salmonella outbreak restaurants secret to protect corporate profits

NaturalNews.com — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 06:00:00 +0100

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is getting increasingly bold these days with openly admitting that it works directly for big industry interests rather than public health interests. In a recent report on why the agency did not disclose Taco Bell as being the... (Source: NaturalNews.com)

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Whole-genome sequencing of 2011 E. coli outbreaks in Europe provides new insight

EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(Harvard School of Public Health) Using whole-genome sequencing, a team led by researchers from Harvard School of Public Health and the Broad Institute has traced the path of the E. coli outbreak that sickened thousands and killed over 50 people in Germany in summer 2011 and also caused a smaller outbreak in France. (Source: EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science)

Influenza in Young People With Neurologic ConditionsInfluenza in Young People With Neurologic Conditions

Medscape Today Headlines — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 04:00:00 +0100

This new report discusses a recent outbreak of influenza in a residential facility for young people with neurodevelopmental disorders. Are there special precautions that should be taken in this type of patient? Morbidity & Mortality Weekly Report (Source: Medscape Today Headlines)

Stomach virus sickens passengers on 3 U.S. cruise ships

CTV Health — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 01:34:10 +0100

A stomach virus outbreak delayed the departure of the cruise ship "Voyager of the Seas" from New Orleans in one of three outbreaks of illness aboard U.S.-based cruise ships reported over the weekend. (Source: CTV Health)

Ship with virus outbreak sets sail with new passengers

CTV Health — Sun, 05 Feb 2012 22:51:35 +0100

The cruise ship Ruby Princess, which reported an outbreak of a stomach virus, is ready to sail from South Florida with new passengers. (Source: CTV Health)

Nepal confirms outbreak of bird flu

Monsters and Critics Health News — Sun, 05 Feb 2012 16:48:02 +0100

(Source: Monsters and Critics Health News)

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Virus outbreak reported on 2 cruise ships

Health News - UPI.com — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 22:45:46 +0100

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., Feb. 4 (UPI) -- Outbreaks of a gastrointestinal virus have been reported on two Princess Cruises ships operating out of Port Everglades, Fla., officials said. (Source: Health News - UPI.com)

Norovirus causes most hospital outbreaks

Health News - UPI.com — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 02:23:29 +0100

WASHINGTON, Feb. 3 (UPI) -- Norovirus, a pathogen that often causes food poisoning and gastroenteritis, is the leading cause of infectious outbreaks in U.S. hospitals, researchers said. (Source: Health News - UPI.com)

Notes from the Field: Outbreak of Salmonellosis Associated with Pet Turtle Exposures — United States, 2011

CDC Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 21:56:53 +0100

(Source: CDC Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report)

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West Africa: Yellow Fever Outbreaks Hit Cameroon and Ghana

AllAfrica News: Health and Medicine — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 18:56:35 +0100

[UN News] The United Nations is backing a mass vaccination campaign under way in northern Cameroon, where a new outbreak of yellow fever has killed at least seven people. (Source: AllAfrica News: Health and Medicine)

Norovirus Top Cause of Hospital Infection Outbreaks, Says Study

The Doctors Lounge - Infections — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 18:00:00 +0100

Gastrointestinal bug causes vomiting, stomach cramps and diarrhea (Source: The Doctors Lounge - Infections)

Health Highlights: Feb. 3, 2012

Primary Care News - Doctors Lounge — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 16:04:00 +0100

Komen Breast Cancer Group Restores Planned Parenthood Funding Cooked Eggs Recalled in 34 States Sibling Study Suggests Drug Addiction Is 'Hard Wired' Taco Bell Identified as Source of Salmonella Outbreak Army Bans Exercise Supplements After Soldiers' Deaths Fungicide Levels in Orange Juice Don't Pose Health Risk: FDA (Source: Primary Care News - Doctors Lounge)

Zimbabwe: Typhoid Outbreak Hits Harare

AllAfrica News: Health and Medicine — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 15:14:55 +0100

[RNW Africa] Zimbabwe - Since last October, when the disease broke out, some 1,500 people in Zimbabwe's capital Harare have fallen victim to typhoid. The authorities blame restaurants and food vendors; the citizens blame the authorities. (Source: AllAfrica News: Health and Medicine)

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Scientists call for curbs on own research on deadly bird flu virus

Guardian Unlimited Science — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 15:06:00 +0100

Virus experts in the US say outbreak of genetically engineered bird flu could be worst influenza pandemic in historyA group of the leading virus experts in the US has called for new, permanent restrictions on research in the face of a new genetically engineered flu virus that could kill half the population of the world.Scientists are currently observing a 60-day moratorium on research into the bird flu virus, after two groups found a way to make it infectious through airborne transmission.An outbreak of this virus could be worse than the 1918 Spanish flu that killed tens of millions of people, warned Michael Osterholm – who has led research into previous dangerous outbreaks – at a public meeting on censorship in science in New York on Thursday night."Frankly, I don't want a virus out t...

Tiny Turtles Again Tied to Salmonella

MedPage Today Public Health — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 12:59:00 +0100

(MedPage Today) -- Small turtles are once again the source of a Salmonella outbreak that has sickened more than a hundred people in the U.S., most of them youngsters, government researchers said. (Source: MedPage Today Public Health)

Policy, practice and decision making for zoonotic disease management: Water and Cryptosporidium.

Environment International — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 09:48:33 +0100

Authors: Austin Z, Alcock RE, Christley RM, Haygarth PM, Heathwaite AL, Latham SM, Mort M, Oliver DM, Pickup R, Wastling JM, Wynne B Abstract Decision making for zoonotic disease management should be based on many forms of appropriate data and sources of evidence. However, the criteria and timing for policy response and the resulting management decisions are often altered when a disease outbreak occurs and captures full media attention. In the case of waterborne disease, such as the robust protozoa, Cryptosporidium spp, exposure can cause significant human health risks and preventing exposure by maintaining high standards of biological and chemical water quality remains a priority for water companies in the UK. Little has been documented on how knowledge and information is translat...

Yellow fever in Cameroon

WHO Disease Outbreaks — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 09:00:00 +0100

In December 2011, the Ministry of Health of Cameroon notified WHO of a yellow fever outbreak in the North Region of the country. (Source: WHO Disease Outbreaks)

Yellow fever in Ghana

WHO Disease Outbreaks — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 09:00:00 +0100

On 20 December 2011, the Ministry of Health of Ghana notified WHO of a yellow fever (YF) outbreak occurring in 3 districts; Builsa and Kassena-Nankana-West in the Upper East Region and Kitampo-South in the Brong Ahafo Region located in the mid-western part of the country. (Source: WHO Disease Outbreaks)

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Norovirus Causes Most Hospital Infection Outbreaks

MedicineNet Crohn's Disease General — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 07:00:00 +0100

Title: Norovirus Causes Most Hospital Infection OutbreaksCategory: Health NewsCreated: 2/3/2012 11:01:00 AMLast Editorial Review: 2/3/2012 (Source: MedicineNet Crohn's Disease General)

Zimbabwe: Typhoid Outbreak Is 'Biological Warfare' - Mugabe Party

AllAfrica News: Health and Medicine — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 05:25:39 +0100

[Monitor] Hararw - Zimbabwe President Robert Mugabe's Zanu-PF party has attributed the typhoid outbreak that has affected 1,500 people in the capital Harare to biological warfare and Western sanctions. (Source: AllAfrica News: Health and Medicine)

Outbreak of salmonella strikes UK

OnMedica Latest News — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Health Protection Agency says watermelons may be the source Related items from OnMedicaE. coli linked to long-term illnessSalmonella found in kebab shop salads Environment and health link to be tested Poor patients more likely to die after heart surgery than rich'Mad cow's disease' confirmed in patient with haemophilia for first time (Source: OnMedica Latest News)

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UN backs vaccination campaign after yellow fever outbreaks hit Cameroon and Ghana

UN News Centre - Health, Poverty, Food Security — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

The United Nations is backing a mass vaccination campaign under way in northern Cameroon, where a new outbreak of yellow fever has killed at least seven people. (Source: UN News Centre - Health, Poverty, Food Security)

Watermelons linked to salmonella outbreak that has killed one and left at least 50 ill

the Mail online | Health — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 01:30:54 +0100

The outbreak, which began in December, is believed to involve packs of ready-to-eat sliced watermelon. Health chiefs say the public can protect themselves by washing all types of fruit and vegetables. (Source: the Mail online | Health)

Could an Infection Cause Tourette's-Like Symptoms in Teenage Girls?

Scientific American - Official RSS Feed — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 23:05:00 +0100

Over the weekend Erin Brockovich made the news yet again as she and her nonprofit team descended on the village of Le Roy, N.Y., determined to test for environmental toxins that might be giving the town's teenagers symptoms of Tourette's syndrome. She has reportedly been stonewalled thus far by local officials, who have already ruled out toxins as the cause of last October's sudden outbreak of tics and involuntary movements in 12 girls who attend Le Roy Junior–Senior High School. An environmental testing company surveyed the air and water and found nothing amiss, and a local neurologist concluded upon examining the girls that they had "conversion disorder," a catchall moniker for physical symptoms that originate in the mind because of stress, trauma or even mass...

Taco Bell tied to 2011 salmonella outbreak that sickened 68: Report

Health News: CBSNews.com — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 19:59:19 +0100

CDC would not disclose outbreak's source; Oklahoma health officials provided documentation to confirm report (Source: Health News: CBSNews.com)

Development of a novel real-time PCR-based strategy for simple and rapid molecular pathotyping of Newcastle disease virus

Archives of Virology — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:10:19 +0100

Abstract A novel real-time PCR strategy was applied to simultaneously detect and to discriminate low-pathogenic lentogenic and virulent meso/velogenic Newcastle disease virus (NDV). The pathotyping is achieved by a three-step semi-nested PCR. A pre-amplification of the cleavage site (CS) region of the F gene is followed by a two-level duplex real-time PCR directly targeting the CS, combining detection and pathotyping in a single tube. A wide range of NDV isolates spanning all genotypes were successfully detected and pathotyped. Clinical samples from outbreaks in Sweden in 2010 that were positive by the novel PCR method were also successfully pathotyped. The method is time-saving, reduces labour and costs and provides opportunities for rapid diagnosis at remote locations an...

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Salmonella Newport

Telegraph Health — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 15:00:24 +0100

There are more than 2,500 different strains of Salmonella and symptoms include diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting or fever. The current outbreak is understood to have been caused by a strain known as Salmonella Newport. (Source: Telegraph Health)

Watermelon 'is salmonella source'

BBC News | Health | UK Edition — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 13:12:35 +0100

A salmonella outbreak linked to watermelon has affected 34 people, killing one, in the UK since December, health experts have revealed. (Source: BBC News | Health | UK Edition)

Pet Turtles and Salmonella

About.com Pediatrics — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 12:00:23 +0100

Much of the media is reporting on an outbreak of Salmonella at a fast food restaurant chain that got 68 people sick in 10 states last month. Fortunately, that Salmonella outbreak is over, although there was never a definitive link to any one specific food and the CDC offered "no specific advice to consumers."...Read Full Post (Source: About.com Pediatrics)

Epidemiology, Clinical Manifestations, and Long-Term Outcomes of a Major Outbreak of Chikungunya in a Hamlet in Sri Lanka, in 2007: A Longitudinal Cohort Study

Clinical and Developmental Immunology — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 11:21:45 +0100

Chikungunya outbreaks occurred in the central province, Sri Lanka in 2006. This community-based study reports the epidemiology and the natural history of the infection from an affected village. Of the 199 families and 1001 individuals in the village, 159 (80%) and 513 (51%) were affected, respectively, comprising 237 (46%) males with peak incidence at 40–50 years. The acute illness caused polyarthritis in 233 (46%), and of them 230 (98%) progressed to chronic arthritic disability (CAD). Of the CAD patients, 102 (44%) had recovered in 141 days (range 30–210 days) from the disability state whilst 128 (56%) had persisting disability which lasted 12, 24, and 36 months in 41 (17.8%), 22 (9.5%), and 14 (6.1%) individuals, respectively. Carpal ...

Outbreak of Salmonella Newport

Health Protection Agency — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 10:31:28 +0100

The Health Protection Agency (HPA) is investigating an outbreak of a strain of Salmonella Newport infection among 30 people in England, Wales and Northern Ireland since the beginning of December 2011. Cases of illness caused by the same strain have been confirmed in Scotland, Ireland and Germany. (Source: Health Protection Agency)

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The Leading Cause Of Infection Outbreaks In US Hospitals Is Norovirus

Health News from Medical News Today — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 09:00:00 +0100

Norovirus, a pathogen that often causes food poisoning and gastroenteritis, was responsible for 18.2 percent of all infection outbreaks and 65 percent of ward closures in U.S. hospitals during a two-year period, according to a new study published in the February issue of the American Journal of Infection Control (AJIC), the official publication of APIC - the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

HPA investigates outbreak of Salmonella Newport

NeLM - News — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Source: Health Protection Agency (HPA) Area: News The Health Protection Agency (HPA) is investigating an outbreak of a strain of Salmonella Newport infection among 30 people in England, Wales and Northern Ireland since the beginning of December 2011. Cases of illness caused by the same strain have been confirmed in Scotland, Ireland and Germany. The figures compare to 10, 12, and 11 cases over the same period in 2008, 2009 and 2010 respectively. Around 200 cases of Salmonella Newport are reported in England, Wales and Northern Ireland each year. Infection with Salmonella Newport causes a similar illness to other forms of Salmonella infection and symptoms include diarrhoea, vomiting, abdominal pain and fever. The head of the gastrointestinal diseases department at the HPA said: ...

Norovirus Causes Most Hospital Infection Outbreaks

WebMD Health — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Norovirus is the leading cause of infection outbreaks in hospitals throughout the country, a new study reveals. (Source: WebMD Health)

Outbreaks of virulent diarrhoeagenic Escherichia coli - are we in control?

BMC Medicine — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Improvements in management strategies to control Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) outbreaks are discussed by Dirk Werber et al, who advocate early detection via careful surveillance and investigation of food source, as well as integration of molecular data. (Source: BMC Medicine)

Persistent Helicobacter pullorum colonization in C57BL/6NTac mice: A new mouse model for an emerging zoonosis.

Journal of Medical Microbiology — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Turk ML, Cacioppo LD, Ge Z, Shen Z, Whary MT, Parry N, Boutin SR, Klein HJ, Fox JG Abstract Helicobacter pullorum, an enterohepatic Helicobacter species, is associated with gastroenteritis and hepatobiliary disease in humans and chickens. Recently a novel H. pullorum outbreak in barrier-maintained rats and mice was described. We further evaluated persistence of infection and serologic response in H. pullorum-infected female C57BL/6NTac and C3H/HeNTac mice obtained from the barrier outbreak. C57BL/6NTac mice (n=36) aged 10 to 58 weeks were confirmed to be chronically infected with H. pullorum by PCR or culture of cecum, colon and feces, with no evidence of hepatic infection; 2 of 3 C3H/HeNTac cleared H. pullorum infection by 26 weeks of age. A quantitative PCR assay based o...

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Analysis: “Restaurant A” Revealed to be Taco Bell

RWJF News Digest - Public Health — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

On Wednesday, Food Safety News editor Dan Flynn broke news of the identity of "Restaurant Chain A" as Taco Bell in the 10-state outbreak of Salmonella enteritidis that sickened at least 68 individuals in October and November 2011. (Source: RWJF News Digest - Public Health)

Imported measles only a plane ride away

Modern Medicine Contemporary Pediatrics — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Measles outbreaks are at their worst level in more than a decade, with almost all transmissions caused by imported cases. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises on steps clinicians can take to keep an imported measles case from transmitting to an outbreak. (Source: Modern Medicine Contemporary Pediatrics)

Taco Bell linked to October salmonella outbreak

Reuters: Health — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 03:50:16 +0100

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - Yum Brand Inc's Taco Bell chain has been linked to a salmonella outbreak that sickened 68 people in 10 states late last year. (Source: Reuters: Health)

Health officials search for source of stomach bug

CNN.com - Health — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 03:44:01 +0100

A series of viral outbreaks causing diarrhea and vomiting has affected scores of people in North Carolina in recent weeks, sickening them, but causing no fatalities, health officials there said Wednesday. (Source: CNN.com - Health)

Op-Ed Contributor: Censorship Hinders Influenza Research

NYT Health — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 03:03:10 +0100

The censorship of influenza research will do little to prevent its misuse — and it may hinder our ability to stop influenza outbreaks. (Source: NYT Health)

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Taco Bell linked to recent Salmonella outbreak

Reuters: Health — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 00:42:45 +0100

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - Yum Brand Inc's Taco Bell chain has been linked to a Salmonella outbreak that sickened 68 people in 10 states late last year. (Source: Reuters: Health)

Nationwide outbreak of Salmonella enterica serotype 4,[5],12:i:- infection associated with consumption of dried pork sausage, France, November to December 2011

Eurosurveillance latest news — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +0100

(Source: Eurosurveillance latest news)

Outbreak of cryptosporidiosis in a child day-care centre in Gipuzkoa, Spain, October to December 2011

Eurosurveillance latest news — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 00:00:00 +0100

(Source: Eurosurveillance latest news)

Stomach Flu Closes California School

About.com Pediatrics — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 16:23:14 +0100

News that a "flu outbreak" had closed a San Francisco high school wouldn't be too unusual this time of year, when we are often seeing quite a few flu cases. This doesn't seem to be a usual year though and we aren't seeing any of the widespread reports of flu that would lead to school closings yet....Read Full Post (Source: About.com Pediatrics)

Health Highlights: Feb. 1, 2012

Primary Care News - Doctors Lounge — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 16:03:00 +0100

Ground Beef-Related Salmonella Outbreak Over: CDC ALS Researcher Dies of Disease He Studied Breast Cancer Charity Severs Ties With Planned Parenthood Study Identifies New Location for Brain Speech Center Indoor Tanning Salons Lie About Health Risks: Investigation (Source: Primary Care News - Doctors Lounge)

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Australia culls ducks in bid to stop bird flu outbreak

Reuters: Health — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:47:58 +0100

SYDNEY (Reuters) - Australia on Wednesday was in the process of killing 24,000 ducks in the hope of stemming an outbreak of bird flu that led to a ban on Australian exports of poultry products to Japan, along with some restrictions by some other Asian countries. (Source: Reuters: Health)

Frequency of outbreak investigations in US hospitals: Results of a national survey of infection preventionists

American Journal of Infection Control — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: Norovirus is emerging as an increasingly common hospital-associated organism causing outbreaks in nonacute settings and may lead to unit/department closures. (Source: American Journal of Infection Control)

Pertussis Pseudo-outbreak Linked to Specimens Contaminated by Bordetella pertussis DNA From Clinic Surfaces

PEDIATRICS — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Pertussis is a poorly controlled vaccine-preventable disease. Verifying outbreaks is challenging owing to nonspecific clinical presentations and imperfect diagnostic tests. Exclusive reliance on highly sensitive polymerase chain reaction has been associated with pseudo-outbreaks. Contamination of specimens with vaccine derived Bordetella pertussis DNA from pediatric clinic surfaces likely resulted in misdiagnoses. Standard practices, liquid transport medium, and lack of polymerase chain reaction cutoffs for discerning weakly positive (contaminant) DNA are contributory, but modifiable factors. (Read the full article) (Source: PEDIATRICS)

Control of listeria monocytogenes in recycled chill brine using ultraviolet light and antimicrobial agents

Journal of Food Safety — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

ABSTRACTPostprocessing contamination of the products in a processing plant has been identified as one of the major reasons for food contamination with Listeria; brining is one such postprocessing area. Our previous study has shown that the combinations of UV and antimicrobials reduces the number of this organism significantly in fresh brine, but brine is usually recycled from days to weeks depending on its use. Therefore, this study is focused on the reduction of L. monocytogenes in recycled chill brine (obtained from a frankfurter processor) using the combinations of UV and antimicrobial agents, such as citric acid (CA), hydrogen peroxide (HP) and dimethyl dicarbonate (DMDC). Results show that the combinations of UV and 2000 ppm and 4000 ppm HP were the most effective treatments in ...

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Relationship of Climate, Geography, and Geology to the Incidence of Rift Valley Fever in Kenya during the 2006-2007 Outbreak.

The American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Hightower A, Kinkade C, Nguku PM, Anyangu A, Mutonga D, Omolo J, Njenga MK, Feikin DR, Schnabel D, Ombok M, Breiman RF Abstract Abstract. We estimated Rift Valley fever (RVF) incidence as a function of geological, geographical, and climatological factors during the 2006-2007 RVF epidemic in Kenya. Location information was obtained for 214 of 340 (63%) confirmed and probable RVF cases that occurred during an outbreak from November 1, 2006 to February 28, 2007. Locations with subtypes of solonetz, calcisols, solonchaks, and planosols soil types were highly associated with RVF occurrence during the outbreak period. Increased rainfall and higher greenness measures before the outbreak were associated with increased risk. RVF was more likely to occur on plains, in densely bushed...

Assessing the risk of international spread of yellow Fever virus: a mathematical analysis of an urban outbreak in asuncion, 2008.

The American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Johansson MA, Arana-Vizcarrondo N, Biggerstaff BJ, Gallagher N, Marano N, Staples JE Abstract Abstract. Yellow fever virus (YFV), a mosquito-borne virus endemic to tropical Africa and South America, is capable of causing large urban outbreaks of human disease. With the ease of international travel, urban outbreaks could lead to the rapid spread and subsequent transmission of YFV in distant locations. We designed a stochastic metapopulation model with spatiotemporally explicit transmissibility scenarios to simulate the global spread of YFV from a single urban outbreak by infected airline travelers. In simulations of a 2008 outbreak in Asunción, Paraguay, local outbreaks occurred in 12.8% of simulations and international spread in 2.0%. Using simple probabilistic models, we...

Outbreak of Nodding Syndrome SpreadsOutbreak of Nodding Syndrome Spreads

Medscape Today Headlines — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 20:13:43 +0100

The condition has now been seen in South Sudan; CDC recommends ivermectin and antiepileptic therapy, as well as enhanced surveillance. Medscape Medical News (Source: Medscape Today Headlines)

Livestock, Not Mongolian Gazelles, Drive Foot-And-Mouth Disease Outbreaks

Health News from Medical News Today — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 11:00:00 +0100

Wildlife health experts from the Wildlife Conservation Society have published evidence which supports the conclusion that Mongolian gazelles - one of the most populous large land mammals on the planet - are not a reservoir of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD), a highly contagious viral disease that threatens both wildlife and livestock in Asia. Outbreaks of FMD in Mongolia affect domestic sheep, goats, camels, and cattle as well as Mongolian gazelles... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Zimbabwe: Most Harare Boreholes Not Safe, Says Expert

AllAfrica News: Health and Medicine — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 07:31:38 +0100

The Herald (Harare)-MOST of the boreholes sunk in Harare's high-density suburbs are susceptible to contamination from bacteria that causes diarrhoeal diseases, a health expert has said. Dismissing the notion that the current typhoid outbreak that affected about 900 people was caused by informal fish and meat vendors only, epidemiological and disease control director in the Ministry of Health and Child Welfare Dr Portia Manangazira said a lot of factors could have caused the outbreak. (Source: AllAfrica News: Health and Medicine)

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Norovirus is the leading cause of infection outbreaks in US hospitals

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(Elsevier Health Sciences) Norovirus, a pathogen that often causes food poisoning and gastroenteritis, was responsible for 18.2 percent of all infection outbreaks and 65 percent of ward closures in US hospitals during a two-year period, according to a new study published in the February issue of the American Journal of Infection Control, the official publication of APIC - the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

Neuraminidase inhibitors for preventing and treating influenza in healthy adults and children

NeLM - Drug Class Focused Reviews — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Source: Cochrane Library Area: Evidence > Drug Class Focused Reviews Background Planning for outbreaks of influenza is a high priority public health issue for national governments. Neuraminidase inhibitors (NIs) are thought to help reduce the symptoms of influenza with several possible mechanisms proposed. NIs have been stockpiled with a view to their widespread use in the event of a pandemic. However, the evidence base for this class of agents remains a source of debate. In a previous review we have documented substantial risks of publication bias of trials of NIs for influenza (60% of patient data from phase III treatment trials of oseltamivir have never been published) and reporting bias in the published trials. Our confidence in the conclusions of previous versions of this rev...

Increased Transmission and Outbreaks of Measles--European Region, 2011 [From the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention]

JAMA — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: JAMA)

El Nino Climate Pattern May Influence Disease Outbreaks Globally

Scientific American - Official RSS Feed — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 18:15:00 +0100

Certain disease outbreaks, including some of the worst pandemics of the 20th century, are linked to weather patterns in the Pacific Ocean, according to new research. Scientists said tracking these climate changes can help officials anticipate and plan for surges in illnesses. [More] (Source: Scientific American - Official RSS Feed)

Livestock, not Mongolian gazelles, drive foot-and-mouth disease outbreaks

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(Wildlife Conservation Society) Wildlife health experts from the Wildlife Conservation Society have published evidence which supports the conclusion that Mongolian gazelles -- one of the most populous large land mammals on the planet -- are not a reservoir of foot-and-mouth disease, a highly contagious viral disease that threatens both wildlife and livestock in Asia. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

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Outbreak of Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease/Herpangina associated with coxsackievirus A6 and A10 infections in 2010, France: a large citywide, prospective observational study

Clinical Microbiology and Infection — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

AbstractHand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) and herpangina (HA) are frequently caused by several distinct serotypes belonging to the human enterovirus A species (HEVA). Enterovirus 71 is considered as a significant public health threat because of rare but fatal neurologic complications. A sentinel surveillance system involving paediatricians from Clermont‐Ferrand (France) was set up to determine the clinical and epidemiologic characteristics of HFMD/HA associated with EV infections.A standardised report form was used to collect demographic and clinical data. Throat or buccal specimens were obtained prospectively and tested for the presence of enteroviruses. The frequency of HEVA serotypes was determined by genotyping. Phylogenetic relationships were analysed to identify potential new vir...

Molecular Relationship between Field and Vaccine Strain of Measles Virus and its Persistence in Pakistan

Genetic Vaccines and Therapy — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: Seroconversion and seroprevalence study of the vaccine and field strain of measles virus is needed to confirm whether its failure is due to service unavailability or vaccine in-affectivity.Key words: Measles, EPI, Outbreaks, Immunization, vaccines, Pakistan. (Source: Genetic Vaccines and Therapy)

Evaluation of shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) method for the detection and identification of STEC O104 strains from sprouts.

Food Microbiology — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 21:48:13 +0100

This study validated the use of a standard method to detect and recover two strains of E. coli O104 STEC at a level of approximately 1 CFU/g from sprouts. The use of additional serotype-specific real-time PCR assays and supplemental chromogenic media to assist the detection and recovery of these organisms were also evaluated. PMID: 22265319 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Food Microbiology)

Zimbabwe doctors report 800 typhoid cases

CTV Health — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 13:29:43 +0100

An independent doctors' group in Zimbabwe is reporting 800 cases of the bacterial disease typhoid in a recent outbreak. (Source: CTV Health)

Infection control management of patients with suspected highly infectious diseases in emergency departments: data from a survey in 41 facilities in 14 European countries

BMC Infectious Diseases — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Preparedness level for the safe and appropriate management of HIDs is partially adequate in the surveyed EDs and MADs. (Source: BMC Infectious Diseases)

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Southeastern Center for Emerging Biologic Threats Tabletop Exercise: Foodborne Toxoplasmosis Outbreak on College Campuses

Biosecurity and Bioterrorism: Biodefense Strategy, Practice, and Science — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 04:05:11 +0100

Biosecurity and Bioterrorism: Biodefense Strategy, Practice, and Science , Vol. 0, No. 0. (Source: Biosecurity and Bioterrorism: Biodefense Strategy, Practice, and Science)

Congo-Kinshasa: Cholera Soars, Says UN

AllAfrica News: Health and Medicine — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 18:58:57 +0100

RNW Africa (Hilversum)-Cholera cases have soared in the Democratic Republic of Congo in recent weeks, the UN said on Friday, bringing the number of people infected in the year-long outbreak to 22,000 with 584 deaths. (Source: AllAfrica News: Health and Medicine)

Epidemiology and genetic relatedness of measles virus infection in Uttar Pradesh, India, during 2009-2010

Archives of Virology — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 17:56:14 +0100

This study calls for an improved surveillance system and intensive characterization of genotypes in circulation for the measles elimination program in India. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original ArticlePages 1-9DOI 10.1007/s00705-012-1227-9Authors Akhalesh Kumar Shakya, Department of Microbiology, Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Raebareli Road, Lucknow, 226 014 IndiaVibha Shukla, Department of Microbiology, Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Raebareli Road, Lucknow, 226 014 IndiaHarjeet Singh Maan, Department of Microbiology, Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Raebareli Road, Lucknow, 226 014 IndiaT. N. Dhole, Department of Microbiology, Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Raebare...

[News of the Week] Around the World

Science: Current Issue — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 17:42:31 +0100

In science news around the world this week, outbreaks of H5N1 continue in poultry in south and southeast Asia—and the human death toll mounts; the University of Tokyo plans to shift the start of its school year from April to autumn; researchers are looking for signs of life in the Tissint meteorites; the Natural History Museum in London is under fire for its scientific cooperation with an Israeli company that conducts research in the occupied West Bank; Marco Antônio Raupp will become Brazil's new minister of science, technology, and innovation; and NASA's twin moon orbiters were officially christened Ebb and Flow. (Source: Science: Current Issue)

[Report] Heavy Livestock Grazing Promotes Locust Outbreaks by Lowering Plant Nitrogen Content

Science: Current Issue — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 17:42:31 +0100

High-protein plants inhibit locust swarming, which explains why grazed systems are more prone to outbreaks.Authors: Arianne J. Cease, James J. Elser, Colleen F. Ford, Shuguang Hao, Le Kang, Jon F. Harrison (Source: Science: Current Issue)

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[Podcast] Science Podcast

Science: Current Issue — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 17:42:31 +0100

The show includes repeatability in natural selection, livestock grazing and locust outbreaks, new frontiers in supercomputing, and more. (Source: Science: Current Issue)

An Outbreak of Salmonella Serotype Typhimurium Infections with an Unusually Long Incubation Period

Foodborne Pathogens and Disease — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 15:29:25 +0100

Foodborne Pathogens and Disease , Vol. 0, No. 0. (Source: Foodborne Pathogens and Disease)

Virus outbreak in Riverside, Orange counties worries horse owners

Los Angeles Times - Science — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 08:00:00 +0100

Animals had to be euthanized in Indio and San Juan Capistrano because of the equine herpes virus-1. Both sites have been placed under quarantine by state veterinarians.An outbreak of a deadly virus has horse trainers and owners in Riverside and Orange counties fearful for the health of their animals. (Source: Los Angeles Times - Science)

Nodding syndrome - South Sudan, 2011.

MMWR Morb Mortal Wkl... — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Abstract In November 2010, the Ministry of Health of the proposed nation of South Sudan requested CDC assistance in investigating a recent increase and geographic clustering of an illness resulting in head nodding and seizures. The outbreak was suspected to be nodding syndrome, an unexplained neurologic condition characterized by episodes of repetitive dropping forward of the head, often accompanied by other seizure-like activity, such as convulsions or staring spells. The condition predominantly affects children aged 5-15 years and has been reported in South Sudan from the states of Western and Central Equatoria and in Northern Uganda and southern Tanzania. Because of visa and security concerns, CDC investigators did not travel to South Sudan until May 2011. On arrival,...

Phylogeny and population structure of brown rot and Moko disease-causing strains of Ralstonia solanacearum phylotype II.

Applied and Environmental Microbiology — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Cellier G, Remenant B, Chiroleu F, Lefeuvre P, Prior P Abstract The ancient soil borne plant vascular pathogen Ralstonia solanacearum has evolved and adapted to cause severe damage on an unusually wide range of plants. In order to better describe and understand these adaptations, strains with very similar lifestyles and host specializations are grouped into ecotypes. We used comparative genomic hybridization to investigate three particular ecotypes in the American phylotype II group: 1) Brown rot strains from phylotypes IIB-1 and IIB-2, historically known as race 3 biovar 2 and clonal; 2) new pathogenic variants from phylotype IIB-4NPB that lack pathogenicity to banana but can infect many other plant species; and 3) Moko disease-causing strains from phylotypes IIB-3, IIB-4...

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[Correspondence] Direct faecal PCR for diagnosis of Shiga-toxin-producing Escherichia coli

The Lancet Infectious Diseases — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 23:05:13 +0100

Martina Bielaszewska and colleagues characterised the Shiga-toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) O104:H4 outbreak strain, which has been reported to cause gastroenteritis and haemolytic uraemic syndrome. They used a diagnostic protocol recommended by the Robert Koch Institute. Broth enrichment of faecal samples was followed by Shiga-toxin immunoassay or PCR to detect the genes encoding Shiga toxin (Stx) and other virulence factors, and microbiological culture was used as the gold standard. In our laboratory, we processed 754 faecal samples from 481 patients that were sent from affiliated hospitals and private practices in Bremen and Lower Saxony during the outbreak from May 23, to June 10, 2011. (Source: The Lancet Infectious Diseases)

[Newsdesk] Infectious disease surveillance update

The Lancet Infectious Diseases — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 23:05:13 +0100

Health officials in the Philippines have reported 128 confirmed and 200 suspected cases of leptospirosis. Many of the infections are likely to have arisen through contact with flood waters after heavy rains brought by tropical storm Washi in mid-December. The areas most affected by the leptospirosis outbreak, Iligan and Cagayan de Oro in the south of the country, were also the areas hardest hit by the floods. The outbreak has claimed the lives of four people so far. (Source: The Lancet Infectious Diseases)

Overgrazed grasslands tied to locust outbreaks

ScienceDaily Headlines — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 20:21:21 +0100

Scientists have shown that insect nutrition and agricultural land management practices may partially explain modern day locust outbreaks. (Source: ScienceDaily Headlines)

Simon Cowell reaches for the stars

Guardian Unlimited Science — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 19:59:03 +0100

The Karaoke Sauron wants to send the winner of Britain's Got Talent into space – and Richard Branson is paying for itIt was science-fiction author Isaac Asimov who described space travel as: "the only chance of escaping the destruction of all that humanity has struggled to achieve for the last 50,000 years". And it was endtimes impresario Simon Cowell who revealed this week: "We are trying to work out a way so that the winner of Britain's Got Talent gets to go up in [Richard Branson's] spacecraft and will be the first person to perform in space."GAME OVER, ASIMOV. As the late professor would surely attest, the first commercial spaceflight to leave this earthly sphere is freighted not merely with passengers, but with humankind's loftiest dreams for itself. Using it to showcase whatever ma...

Slideshow: Low-Quality Plants Power Locust Outbreak

ScienceNOW — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 19:00:00 +0100

Overgrazing leaves insect pests with plants they do best on (Source: ScienceNOW)

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Libya: Detainees Tortured and Denied Medical Care

MSF News — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 14:42:00 +0100

Libya 2011 © MSF An MSF physiotherapist works in one of Misrata's detention centers, where MSF is suspending operations. TRIPOLI/BRUSSELS/NEW YORK, JANUARY 26, 2012 – Detainees in the Libyan city of Misrata are being tortured and denied urgent medical care, leading the international medical humanitarian organization Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) to suspend its operations in detention centers in Misrata, MSF announced today. MSF teams began working in Misrata’s detention centers in August, 2011, to treat war-wounded detainees. Since then, MSF doctors had been increasingly confronted with patients who suffered injuries caused by torture during interrogation sessions. The interrogations were held outside the detent...

Kansas Measles Outbreak Expands

About.com Pediatrics — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 11:59:46 +0100

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment and Finney County Health Department are now reporting that they have identified at least six cases this month in Garden City, which is more than was seen in all of Kansas in 2011....Read Full Post (Source: About.com Pediatrics)

Neuraminidase inhibitors for preventing and treating influenza in healthy adults and children.

Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 08:18:08 +0100

CONCLUSIONS: We found a high risk of publication and reporting biases in the trial programme of oseltamivir. Sub-population analyses of the influenza infected population in the oseltamivir trial programme are not possible because the two arms are non-comparable due to oseltamivir's apparent interference with antibody production. The evidence supports a direct oseltamivir mechanism of action on symptoms but we are unable to draw conclusions about its effect on complications or transmission. We expect full clinical study reports containing study protocol, reporting analysis plan, statistical analysis plan and individual patient data to clarify outstanding issues. These full clinical study reports are at present unavailable to us. PMID: 22258996 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Cochrane Dat...

A local outbreak of dengue caused by an imported case in Dongguan China

BMC Public Health - Latest articles — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Several characterized points of urbanization contributed to this outbreak of dengue in Dongguan: the residents are highly concentrated; the residents' life habits helped to form the habitats of Ae. albopictus and contributed to the high Breteau Index; the self-constructed houses lacks of mosquito prevention facilities. This report has reaffirmed the importance of a surveillance system for infectious diseases control and aroused the awareness of an imported case causing the epidemic of an infectious disease in urbanized region. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles)

Deficiency in immunity to poliovirus type 3: A lurking danger?

BMC Infectious Diseases — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: Immunity to PV3 is insufficient in our cohort. Due to increasing globalization and worldwide tourism, the danger of polio-outbreaks is not averted - even not in developed countries, such as Germany. Therefore, vaccination remains necessary. (Source: BMC Infectious Diseases)

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Vancomycin-resistant enterococcus outbreak in a pediatric intensive care unit: report of successful interventions for control and prevention.

Braz J Med Biol Res — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Carmona F, Prado SI, Silva MF, Gaspar GG, Bellissimo-Rodrigues F, Martinez R, Matsuno AK, Carlotti AP PMID: 22267005 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Braz J Med Biol Res)

Locust Heaven

This Week in Science — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Locust outbreaks have severe consequences for agriculture, but the conditions that promote an outbreak are unknown. Cease et al. (p. 467) investigated aspects of the locust diet and found that … [Read more] (Source: This Week in Science)

Study of compartmentalization in the visna clinical form of small ruminant lentivirus infection in sheep

BMC Veterinary Research - Latest articles — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Bayesian approach inferences suggested that proviruses from broncoalveolar lavage cells and peripheral blood mononuclear cells represented the common ancestors (infecting viruses) in the animal and that neuroinvasion in the outbreak involved microevolution after initial infection with an A-type strain. This study demonstrates virus compartmentalization in the CNS and other body tissues in sheep presenting the neurological form of SRLV infection. (Source: BMC Veterinary Research - Latest articles)

Outbreak of haemolytic uraemic syndrome due to Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli O104:H4 among French tourists returning from Turkey, September 2011

Eurosurveillance latest news — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 00:00:00 +0100

(Source: Eurosurveillance latest news)

Clinical Manifestations of Foot‐and‐Mouth Disease During the 2010/2011 Epidemic in the Republic of Korea

Transboundary and Emerging Diseases — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

In this study, the clinical signs of FMD were described on the basis of the subjective observations by the farm workers. The present results highlight the clinical signs expected on specific body parts of different types of susceptible animals, and therefore, they may be useful for generating public awareness, particularly among farm workers, as well as for early detection of future FMD outbreaks. (Source: Transboundary and Emerging Diseases)

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Avian influenza - situation in China - update

WHO Disease Outbreaks — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 11:58:00 +0100

The Ministry of Health of China has notified WHO of a human case of avian influenza A (H5N1) virus infection.‬‪ (Source: WHO Disease Outbreaks)

Zimbabwe: Typhoid Outbreak Hits Country

AllAfrica News: Health and Medicine — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 09:55:51 +0100

RNW Africa (Hilversum)-At least 90 people were admitted to hospital and over 600 affected in a typhoid outbreak in the Zimbabwean capital Harare, a health official said on Tuesday. (Source: AllAfrica News: Health and Medicine)

Aedes albopictus and the reemergence of Dengue

BMC Public Health - Latest articles — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Dengue is a vector-borne disease that is estimated to affect millions of individuals each year in tropical and subtropical areas, and it is reemerging in areas that have been disease-free for relatively long periods of time. In this issue of the journal, Peng et al. report on a Dengue outbreak in a city in southern China that had been disease-free for more than two decades. The infection, which was due to serotype 1, was introduced by a traveler from South-east Asia and transmitted by Aedes albopictus, the Asian tiger mosquito. Compared to Aedes aegypti, which is the most important vector of Dengue, Ae albopictus is a less competent vector of arboviruses, and the epidemics it causes are milder. However, Ae albopictus is becoming an increasingly important vector because of its rapidly chang...

Progress towards measles and rubella elimination in Tuscany, Italy: the role of population seroepidemiological profile

The European Journal of Public Health — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: Additional catch-up vaccination strategies targeting the adult population (particularly fertile women) are strongly needed to eliminate the risk of measles and congenital rubella syndrome for future generations. (Source: The European Journal of Public Health)

Detection of natural inter- and intra-genotype recombination events revealed by cap gene analysis and decreasing prevalence of PCV2 in wild boars.

Infection, Genetics and Evolution — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Cadar D, Cságola A, Lőrincz M, Tombácz K, Spînu M, Tuboly T Abstract Porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2), the causative agent of a number of PCVAD (porcine circovirus associated diseases), is ubiquitous in domestic pig and wild boar populations. In the present study, using recombination detection program, phylogenetic analysis and base-by-base comparison of 28 PCV2 ORF2s (capsid protein coding gene) from wild boars and 8 from domestic pigs of Transylvania, recent natural intra- (PCV2b-1B/PCV2b-1C) and inter-genotype (PCV2a-2D/PCV2b-1C) recombination events were detected. Notably, one potential recombinant (F1-21) was detected in domestic pig with possible parental strains of wild boar origin. The estimated recombinant breakpoints comprised epitopes A, B and C of ORF2, wit...

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Protective efficacy of Bluetongue virus-like and subvirus-like particles in sheep: Presence of the serotype-specific VP2, independent of its geographic lineage, is essential for protection.

Vaccine — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

In this report, we have prepared BTV virus-like particles (VLPs, composed of VP2, VP3, VP5 and VP7) and sub-viral, inner core-like particles (CLPs, VP3 and VP7) using a recombinant baculovirus expression system. We compared the protective efficacy of VLPs and CLPs in sheep and investigated the importance of geographical lineages of BTV in the development of vaccines. The Greek crossbred Karagouniko sheep, which display mild to sub-clinical BT, were vaccinated with VLPs or CLPs of BTV-1, derived from western lineage and were challenged with virulent BTV-1 from an eastern lineage. All VLP-vaccinated animals developed a neutralising antibody response to BTV-1 from both lineages prior to challenge. Moreover, post-challenged animals had no clinical manifestation or viraemea and the challenged v...

Whooping Cough in Adults: An Update on a Reemerging Infection

The American Journal of Medicine — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 23:45:00 +0100

This article describes the recent epidemiologic shifts and reviews the clinical presentation, diagnosis, and treatment of pertussis. New vaccination recommendations by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices in response to recent outbreaks and infant deaths are highlighted. (Source: The American Journal of Medicine)

Sudan: Malaria and Whooping Coughs Kill 36 in Jonglei's Duk County

AllAfrica News: Malaria — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 09:03:37 +0100

Sudan Tribune (Paris)-A Malaria and whooping cough outbreak in Jonglei State's Duk County, has reportedly killed 36 people with a further 761 cases are under medical care in Pajut clinic. (Source: AllAfrica News: Malaria)

Swine flu death toll hits nine in Mexico as cases almost double

Telegraph Health — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 06:21:40 +0100

Nine people have died from an outbreak of swine flu in Mexico, with the number of cases almost doubling in a week. (Source: Telegraph Health)

Human‐lice transmitted infectious diseases

Clinical Microbiology and Infection — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

AbstractSeveral of the infectious diseases associated with human lice are life‐threatening, including epidemic typhus, relapsing fever, and trench fever, which are caused by Rickettsia prowazekii, Borrelia recurrentis, and Bartonella quintana, respectively. Although these diseases have been known for several centuries, they remain a major public health concern in populations living in poor hygienic conditions due to war, social disruption, severe poverty, or gaps in public health management. Poor hygienic conditions favor a higher prevalence of body lice, which are the main vectors for these diseases. Trench fever has been reported in both developing and developed countries in populations living in poor conditions, such as homeless individuals. In contrast, outbreaks of epidemic typhus a...

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Measles Health Alert in California

About.com Pediatrics — Sun, 22 Jan 2012 14:26:01 +0100

The Riverside County Department of Public Health has issued a Measles Health Alert after confirming a case of measles in an unvaccinated child in Riverside County, California. The child was reportedly "seen in several health care settings" while contagious, which raises the possibility that this will become a larger outbreak....Read Full Post (Source: About.com Pediatrics)

Influence of a triazine derivative-based biocide on microbial biofilms of cutting fluids in contact with different substrates.

Journal of Industrial Microbiology and Biotechnology — Sun, 22 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Lucchesi EG, Eguchi SY, Moraes AM Abstract Although biofilms are often associated with hospital infection problems owing to their high resistance to antimicrobial agents, in recent years biofilms have also been studied in the industrial sector, mainly because they are a major cause of contamination outbreaks in facilities and products. The aim of this study was to investigate whether different materials commonly found in the metalworking industries have different biofilm formation characteristics when in contact with contaminated cutting fluid as well as to establish an optimal concentration of a triazine-based antimicrobial agent to protect the oil/water emulsion and also to delay or interrupt the development of biofilms. Biofilms grown on the surface of carbon steel, sta...

Avastin Doesn't Blind People, People Blind People

American Journal of Ophthalmology — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 03:51:05 +0100

Conclusions: Recommendations arising from a root cause analysis of infectious endophthalmitis outbreaks should focus on the procedures used by pharmacies to compound bevacizumab. Microbial contamination of bevacizumab-containing syringes prepared from the same vial of drug can be avoided by using a single vial of bevacizumab for each eye or by following strict adherence to United States Pharmacopoeia Chapter 797 requirements when compounding a single vial of bevacizumab into multiple syringes. (Source: American Journal of Ophthalmology)

An Outbreak of Streptococcus Endophthalmitis After Intravitreal Injection of Bevacizumab

American Journal of Ophthalmology — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 03:51:05 +0100

Conclusions: In this outbreak of endophthalmitis after intravitreal bevacizumab injection, Streptococcus mitis/oralis was cultured from the majority of patients and from all unused syringes. Visual outcomes were generally poor. The most likely cause of this outbreak was contamination during syringe preparation by the compounding pharmacy. (Source: American Journal of Ophthalmology)

Exploring the influence of enforcing infection control directives on the risk of developing healthcare associated infections in the intensive care unit: A retrospective study

Intensive and Critical Care Nursing — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 02:22:30 +0100

Conclusion: Our findings suggest that strict enforcement of infection control strategies may have a positive impact on the efforts to minimise the risk of HAIs. These findings carry a clinical significance that shall not be ignored with regard to our overall efforts to minimise the risk of developing HAIs in the ICU. (Source: Intensive and Critical Care Nursing)

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Epidemiology of Shiga toxin producing Escherichia coli in Australia, 2000-2010

BMC Public Health - Latest articles — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 01:50:22 +0100

Conclusions: STEC infections in Australia have remained fairly steady over the past eleven years. Overall, the incidence and burden of disease due to STEC and HUS in Australia appears comparable or lower than similar developed countries. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles)

CDC traces 2009 measles outbreak to Pa.

Health News - UPI.com — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 01:07:08 +0100

ATLANTA, Jan. 20 (UPI) -- U.S. health officials say they traced the path of a 2009 measles outbreak to a Pennsylvania hospital. (Source: Health News - UPI.com)

Bird flu scientists suspend work amid epidemic fears

Guardian Unlimited Science — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 22:07:42 +0100

Researchers announce 60-day suspension to allow debate about security of their attempts to prevent spread of virusScientists trying to prevent bird flu from killing millions of people have suspended their work because of fears they might accidentally cause the epidemic they hope to stop, according to a letter published on Friday in scientific journals.Researchers from around the world signed a letter in the Nature and Science journals in which they announced a 60-day suspension to allow a public debate about the security of their work.The letter comes after developments in the study of bird flu in which scientists have created a similar virus that can be passed between mammals.Bird flu can only be caught by humans from birds such as chickens but it is usually lethal. Scientists fear that b...

Measles Outbreak Shows Disease Still a Threat (CME/CE)

MedPage Today State Required CME — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 18:43:11 +0100

(MedPage Today) -- A measles outbreak in a Pennsylvania hospital underlines the need for staff members to be immunized against the virus and the disease to be part of the differential diagnosis, the CDC said. (Source: MedPage Today State Required CME)

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Technology That Predicts Disease Spread In Mass Gatherings

Health News from Medical News Today — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 18:00:00 +0100

Hosts of mass gatherings (MGs) could benefit from new opportunities that would assist in the preparation and response to threats of infectious diseases, as revealed by the fifth paper on MGs health in The Lancet Infectious Diseases Series. One of these opportunities would be to couple surveillance systems that use the Internet to identify outbreaks of infectious diseases around the globe in near real-time with a novel technology, which can track and predict global population movements through commercial air travel... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Congo-Kinshasa: Displaced Face Malaria Outbreak

AllAfrica News: Malaria — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 15:09:03 +0100

Monusco (Kinshasa)-In their already dire living conditions, Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) at Shasha camp, Masisi terriroty, in Nord Kivu province, are now facing another difficulty: malaria. (Source: AllAfrica News: Malaria)

Pseudomonas: Three babies die following outbreak of bacterial infection in children's hospital

the Mail online | Health — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 14:55:03 +0100

A neonatal room at the Royal Jubilee Maternity Service in Belfast is being emptied after three babies died from an infection, medical staff said. (Source: the Mail online | Health)

Salmonella Linked to Labs Infected 109

RWJF News Digest - Public Health — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 11:46:04 +0100

Between August 2010 and June 2011, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) counted 109 people in 38 states infected with a commercial strain of Salmonella Typhimurium most commonly found in microbiology laboratories. On Tuesday, the CDC released its final report on the outbreak, which Food Safety Newsfirst reported on in April 2011. (Source: RWJF News Digest - Public Health)

Hospital-Associated Measles Outbreak — Pennsylvania, March–April 2009

CDC Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 11:45:55 +0100

(Source: CDC Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report)

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Third baby dies after infection

BBC News | Health | UK Edition — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 09:02:57 +0100

Three babies die at the Royal Maternity Hospital in Belfast after an outbreak of an infection called pseudomonas. (Source: BBC News | Health | UK Edition)

Avian influenza – situation in Viet Nam

WHO Disease Outbreaks — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 09:00:00 +0100

The Ministry of Health (MoH) has announced a confirmed case of human infection with avian influenza A (H5N1) virus. (Source: WHO Disease Outbreaks)

Evaluation of an immunochromatographic dip strip test for simultaneous detection of Cryptosporidium spp, Giardia duodenalis, and Entamoeba histolytica antigens in human faecal samples

European Journal of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 07:07:36 +0100

Abstract Immunochromatographic (IC) tests may play an important role in the future diagnosis of parasitic diseases because of their speed and simplicity of use. A recently developed test to detect Cryptosporidium spp, Giardia duodenalis and Entamoeba histolytica was evaluated. Microscopy and PCR were the “gold standard” reference techniques and the results of this IC test were compared with those obtained with ELISA and IC single test for the three parasites. One hundred sixty stool samples were assayed. Using microscopy, 22 samples were diagnosed as positive for Cryptosporidium spp., 31 for Giardia duodenalis, 41 for Entamoeba histolytica/dispar, and 68 had a negative diagnosis for the three parasites. Results of IC tests show sensitivities of 70–72% for Cryptosporidiu...

Hepatitis A among men who have sex with men in Barcelona, 1989-2010: insufficient control and need for new approaches

BMC Infectious Diseases — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Annual incidences remain high among MSM without tendency to decrease. More strategies which effectively reach the whole MSM community are needed. (Source: BMC Infectious Diseases)

Kansas - Measles Outbreak vs. Vax Exemption Law

About.com Pediatrics — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Should we have much hope that measles cases will be down this year? Remember that cases were up to a 15 year high in 2011. If you consider that as Finney County, in southwest Kansas, is dealing with a measles outbreak...Read Full Post (Source: About.com Pediatrics)

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Effects of Coarse Particulate Matter on Emergency Hospital Admissions for Respiratory Diseases: A Time Series Analysis in Hong Kong

EHP-in-Press — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSION: PMc was associated with emergency hospital admissions for respiratory diseases in Hong Kong independent of PM2.5 and gaseous pollutants. Further research is needed to evaluate health effects of different components of PMc. (Source: EHP-in-Press)

Hospital-associated measles outbreak - pennsylvania, march-april 2009.

MMWR Morb Mortal Wkl... — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Abstract Although endemic measles transmission has been interrupted in the United States, importations of this highly infectious virus continue. On March 28, 2009, a physician notified the Pennsylvania Department of Health (PADOH) of a measles case involving an unvaccinated child. Within 5 days, four additional cases were reported to PADOH and the Allegheny County Health Department. All five infected persons had been in the same hospital emergency department (ED) on March 10; one of them was a physician who worked in the ED. To find the source patient, PADOH reviewed electronic records of patients evaluated in the ED on March 10 for fever and rash. This identified a child who arrived recently from India, was treated for viral exanthema, and discharged. On April 3, PADOH ...

Behaviour and target site selection of the conjugative transposon Tn916 in two different strains of toxigenic Clostridium difficile.

Applied and Environmental Microbiology — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Mullany P, Williams R, Langridge GC, Turner DJ, Whalan R, Clayton C, Lawley T, Hussain H, McCurrie K, Morden N, Allan E, Roberts AP Abstract The insertion sites of the conjugative transposon Tn916 in the anaerobic pathogen Clostridium difficile were determined using Illumina Solexa high-throughput DNA sequencing of Tn916 insertion libraries in two different clinical isolates: 630ΔE, an erythromycin-sensitive derivative of 630 (ribotype 012) and the ribotype 027 isolate R20291 which was responsible for a severe outbreak of C. difficile disease. A consensus fifteen base pair Tn916 insertion sequence was identified which was similar in both strains although an extended consensus sequence was observed in R20291. A search of the C. difficile 630 genome showed that the Tn916 in...

Bacterial infection at UK hospital linked to death of three babies

Hospital Management — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 00:00:00 +0100

The UK's Belfast Trust has announced the death of a third baby at the Royal Maternity Hospital after an outbreak of a bacterial infection known as Pseudomonas. (Source: Hospital Management)

CDC Finds 'Pseudo-Outbreak' of Whooping CoughCDC Finds 'Pseudo-Outbreak' of Whooping Cough

Medscape Medical News Headlines — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 22:31:17 +0100

A cluster of suspected whooping cough cases in Colorado was actually most likely a "pseudo-outbreak," according to an investigation by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Reuters Health Information (Source: Medscape Medical News Headlines)

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Grower linked to listeria fined on migrant housing

USATODAY.com Health — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 21:49:26 +0100

A cantaloupe grower whose farm was identified as the source of a listeria outbreak was fined by the U.S. Department of Labor for failing to provide ... (Source: USATODAY.com Health)

Mass hysteria outbreak reported in N.Y. town: What does it mean?

Health News: CBSNews.com — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 20:33:48 +0100

12 teenagers at LeRoy Junior-Senior High School in upstate N.Y. experience Tourette's like symptoms around the same time (Source: Health News: CBSNews.com)

Two babies dead after infection

BBC News | Health | UK Edition — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 18:53:27 +0100

Two babies have died at the Royal's Maternity Neonatal Unit in Belfast after an outbreak of an infection called Pseudomonas. (Source: BBC News | Health | UK Edition)

Eradicating polio one drop at a time

CTV Health — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 18:08:24 +0100

Janis Mackey Frayer blogs from Moradabad, India, the epicentre of India's most recent polio outbreak. (Source: CTV Health)