Building the Future of Biodefense

Recommendation: Spain has reported 4 human cases of swine influenza A(H1N1)v in the past 17 years, including a case in Catalonia reported in 2024. Limited, non-sustained human-to-human transmission of variant influenza viruses has previously been documented. Organizations can lower barriers to seasonal flu vaccines for their employees. Employees should avoid contact with diseased swine.

Situation: Spain confirmed a human case of influenza virus A(H1N1) variant of swine origin in Catalonia. The asymptomatic individual reported no history of exposure to pigs or a contaminated environment. Media sources reported that this infection may have resulted from human-to-human transmission, though other hypotheses are under investigation. Testing results from the case's direct contacts were all negative, suggesting that forward transmission has not occurred. Spain, European, and WHO officials stated that the risk level for the general public and for further transmission was Very Low. An investigation is ongoing. [Confidence: Very High]

Recommendation: Organizations in Suriname should reduce mosquito populations at their facilities by eliminating standing water. Employees can prevent mosquito bites by wearing protective clothing, using insect repellent, and eliminating standing water near their homes. Organizations should inform employees with planned work travel to affected countries and support pregnant employees who opt not to travel. Employees should consult a doctor about vaccination against chikungunya before traveling to affected areas. Vaccine eligibility and availability may vary by country.

Situation: Suriname health officials reported 1,150 chikungunya infections so far this year, with the virus spreading quickly and further across the country. By comparison, a 2014 outbreak saw 700 cases over 4 months, making the current outbreak far more rapid. Media sources reported that healthcare officials believe the actual number is likely much higher. Large-scale mosquito control efforts have not started yet due to insufficient pesticides and larvicides, though new shipments from Barbados and Brazil are expected. However, larvicides are still being used in some areas to fight mosquito larvae. Despite rising cases, hospitals remain able to manage patient care. Officials urged the public to help control the spread of the virus by removing stagnant water, wearing protective clothing, using repellents, and sleeping under mosquito nets. Earlier in the month, the US CDC issued a Level 2: Practice Enhanced Precautions travel advisory due to the chikungunya outbreak in Suriname (see PHC alert 2/6). See PHC alerts 2/11, 2/6, 1/30, and 1/22 for earlier info. [Confidence: Very High]

Recommendation: Informational update only.

Situation: A recent non-peer-reviewed study estimated the economic burden of measles in the US in 2025. The study found that measles cost more than $244 million in the US last year. Nearly two-thirds of the cost was due to outbreak response activities, while less than one-third of the costs were due to productivity loss. Direct medical expenses comprised 3% of costs. If measles vaccination coverage were to decline by 1% each year, annual costs could reach $1.5 billion in 2030. [Confidence: Very High]