Building the Future of Biodefense

Recommendation: Organizations in the United States (US) should not sell ByHeart Inc. recalled infant formula while a botulism outbreak investigation is ongoing. Anyone with these products at their workplace or home should dispose of them, as well as wash and sanitize any items or surfaces that may have been contaminated by the recalled formula. Employees with infants should not feed the product to their child and may wish to avoid all infant formula products by ByHeart Inc. while this investigation is ongoing. Organizations in the US should encourage employees to seek immediate treatment if their child develops botulinum toxin symptoms such as gastrointestinal symptoms, difficulty swallowing, muscle weakness, or vision and speech issues.

Situation: The US CDC, FDA, and local health officials are investigating a multistate outbreak of infant botulism linked to recalled infant formula. So far, 13 cases across 10 states have been reported, and all individuals were hospitalized. On 11/8, ByHeart Inc. recalled 2 lots of its Whole Nutrition Infant Formula (Lot: 206VABP/251261P2 and Lot: 206VABP/251131P2, both with a “Use by 01 Dec 2026” date). The affected lots were sold online and in major retailers nationwide. According to the FDA, ByHeart products account for about 1% of US infant formula sales, and the recall is not expected to cause any shortage. [Confidence: Very High]

Recommendation: Heavy rainfall and flooding can disturb bacteria in soil and contaminate water, increasing the risk of diseases like leptospirosis and melioidosis. Debris and stagnant water in the aftermath of a typhoon create more mosquito breeding areas, increasing the risk of mosquito-borne diseases. Organizations in countries affected by Typhoon Fung-wong and Typhoon Kalmaegi should advise employees working outdoors in areas with recent heavy rainfall or flooding to cover open skin wounds, wear boots, and use masks. Employees should avoid contact with floodwater when possible. Employees can also take steps to prevent mosquito bites by wearing protective clothing and using insect repellent, and eliminating standing water near their homes.

Situation: According to media sources, Typhoon Fung-wong exited the northwestern Philippines on Monday after causing floods, landslides, and power outages across several provinces. At least 8 people were killed and over 1.4 million displaced, many seeking refuge in evacuation centers. The storm hit while the country was still recovering from Typhoon Kalmaegi, which killed at least 224 people the previous week. Heavy rains flooded more than 130 northern villages, disrupted transport, and led to widespread flight cancellations and port closures, prohibiting ships from venturing into rough seas. Officials warned that lingering rains could still trigger flooding and landslides as relief operations continued. [Confidence: Very High]

Recommendation: Bioterrorism events, even when hoaxes, can disrupt operations and create an atmosphere of fear. Organizations should have a plan for handling suspicious mail and packages, including training employees.

Situation: According to media sources, multiple people fell ill after a suspicious package was opened at the Air National Guard Readiness Center at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland. The affected building and the connecting building were evacuated around 1 pm on 11/6, and hazmat crews assessed the situation. It was determined that there was no immediate threat, and normal operations were later resumed. Officials did not disclose what was in the package, but a spokesperson stated that no white substance was reported during the investigation. However, other media outlets reported the package contained an unidentified white powder with political propaganda. The ill individuals received medical treatment on site and were later released in stable condition. Officials are actively investigating the incident. [Confidence: Moderate]

Recommendation: Human rabies cases are 100% fatal if untreated. Employees in Los Angeles County, California, should avoid interacting with wild animals (including bats) and seek immediate medical care and contact their local health department if they are bitten or scratched by an animal with suspected rabies.

Situation: Los Angeles County health officials detected rabies in 61 bats so far in 2025, the 2nd highest total ever recorded in the county. Only 2021 saw more, with 68 rabid bats confirmed. This increase continues a decade-long upward trend. Rabid bats have been detected throughout LA County, with the highest numbers in the Santa Clarita Valley, particularly among the Canyon Bat species. Rabies activity typically peaks in late summer. Health officials urged residents to avoid contact with bats, to immediately speak with their medical provider or contact public health if they have had contact, and to report any bats found indoors or acting abnormally. [Confidence: Very High]