Building the Future of Biodefense

Recommendation: Due to an anthrax outbreak, organizations in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and western Uganda, organizations should caution employees to avoid contact with animals in the region, ensure any water from nearby sources is boiled before consumption, and not to consume meat obtained from sick animals or animals that died suddenly. The US State Department lists the DRC under a Level 4: Do Not Travel advisory and Uganda as a Level 3: Reconsider Travel advisory.

Situation: From March to April 2025, concurrent anthrax outbreaks in the DRC and Uganda affected both wildlife and humans. In the DRC, North Kivu reported 17 human cases and 1 death, with some cases linked to handling or consuming infected animals or with cross-border cattle movement from Uganda. In Uganda, 30 human cases were reported, tied to the handling of dead livestock. In addition to unsafe animal handling practices, the outbreak was compounded by low public awareness, cultural beliefs linking livestock deaths to witchcraft, cross-border animal movement, and limited veterinary services for sick animals. Response efforts are ongoing. See PHC alert 5/01 for earlier info. [Confidence: Very High]

Recommendation: The chikungunya mosquito vector, Aedes albopictus, is present in France. Chikungunya is not considered endemic in the country, though locally transmitted cases have occurred. Organizations in France can support mosquito control measures at their facilities by eliminating standing water. Employees should eliminate sources of standing water around their property and prevent mosquito bites by wearing protective clothing and using insect repellent.

Situation: Mainland France confirmed the detection of its 1st locally acquired chikungunya case this year. The case was detected in La Crau commune of the Var Department. Vector control measures were implemented. The case follows high levels of imported vector-borne diseases this year, including chikungunya (see PHC alert 5/29). [Confidence: Very High]

Recommendation: COVID-19 is highly contagious and can be spread in the workplace and schools, leading to worker absenteeism due to illness or caregiving duties. Organizations in Taiwan should advise employees to proactively protect themselves against respiratory illnesses by wearing masks, practicing hand hygiene, avoiding crowded areas, and getting vaccinated. Organizations should provide flexible work schedules to support employees making vaccine appointments for themselves or family members.

Situation: Taiwan health officials announced that the COVID-19 growth rate slowed down. They estimated that the disease reached its peak last week, though the numbers of severe cases, hospitalizations, and deaths in people over the age of 50 are still increasing. Public compliance with mask wearing and vaccination uptake likely contributed to the changing disease trends. Similar declines were noted in China and Hong Kong as well. [Confidence: Very High]