Building the Future of Biodefense

Recommendation: Cases of hantavirus are rare, but not unexpected in Nevada. Organizations in Washoe County should take measures to ensure rodent-free facilities. Rodent droppings should be cleaned with bleach; wet the soiled area with bleach before wiping up droppings to limit infectious aerosol generation. Employees should always wear gloves and N95 (or equivalent) masks when handling rodents or their droppings.

Situation: Nevada confirmed a hantavirus case in a woman in her 90s from Washoe County, who is currently hospitalized. It is believed that the exposure occurred through inhalation or direct contact with rodent droppings, urine, or nesting materials disturbed during carpentry work in her home in the weeks before the onset of symptoms. This is the 1st case of hantavirus in Washoe County since Aug 2023. [Confidence: Very High]

Recommendation: Dengue outbreaks have become increasingly common and severe in the Seychelles in recent years. Organizations in Seychelles should reduce mosquito habitats by eliminating sources of standing water and applying insecticides to outdoor water storage containers. Employees can reduce infection risk by wearing clothing that covers skin, using mosquito repellents, and emptying standing water.

Situation: Media sources reported a rise in dengue cases in the Seychelles, with 16 cases in Mahe and 36 in Praslin. 6 cases were hospitalized, and no deaths have been reported so far. [Confidence: Very High]

Recommendation: Brazil exported $10 billion of chicken meat in 2024, comprising 35% of global trade. The primary impact of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) outbreaks in commercial flocks is increased cost of eggs or poultry products when outbreaks become more widespread. Organizations sensitive to egg and poultry prices in Brazil should contingency plan for price volatility. PHC recommends that continuity plans be reviewed and updated in preparation for high-consequence infectious disease threats.

Situation: Brazil reported its 1st detection of HPAI at a commercial poultry breeding farm in Rio Grande do Sul. Containment and eradication measures were implemented following the detection. Officials stated that the risk of human infection is low. The number of birds affected was not provided. Media sources reported that China implemented a country-wide trade ban for 60 days due to the detection, while Japan, the United Arab Emirates, and Saudi Arabia would activate state-specific bans. [Confidence: Very High]

Recommendation: Organizations with employees in or traveling to Colombia should check the country's yellow fever vaccination requirements before traveling within the country to avoid delays. Enhanced screening at health checkpoints may lead to travel delays. Organizations should provide flexible work schedules to support employees who need to get vaccinated at least 10 days before any travel.

Situation: Officials announced that yellow fever vaccination is required before travel to high-risk areas in Colombia. Vaccination must occur at least 10 days before the trip. Media sources reported that authorities established mandatory health checkpoints on driving and river routes, and individuals will need to provide proof of vaccination before purchasing tickets at land transportation terminals and digital platforms. All transportation companies will need to certify that personnel are vaccinated. As of 5/12, 87 yellow fever cases, including 39 deaths, were reported in Colombia so far since early 2024, with most in Tolima. See PHC alerts on 4/25 and 4/17 for earlier info. [Confidence: Very High]