Building the Future of Biodefense

Recommendation: Organizations can support employees in obtaining mpox vaccinations by providing flexible work schedules. Information on the availability of mpox vaccines and treatment can also be included in employee wellness communication.

Situation: According to media sources, Israel reported the country's 1st detection of mpox clade 1b in a traveler returning from the United Arab Emirates. No new additional cases were detected so far. Health officials reported that mpox vaccines are currently unavailable, though efforts are underway to renew supplies and improve access for at-risk groups. [Confidence: Very High]

Recommendation: Over 8 million people worldwide are infected with the Chagas disease parasite. It is most common in rural areas of Mexico and Central and South America, but can also occur in the US. It usually spreads through bites from triatomine bugs, also known as kissing bugs, but can be spread through other transmission routes. Early infection is often mild or goes unnoticed, but chronic infections can lead to serious heart and digestive system issues. Organizations with employees working outdoors should remind them to wear protective clothing and use insect repellent. Insecticides may be applied around buildings, and employees bitten by triatomine bugs should consult a doctor about Chagas disease screening.

Situation: A recent study published in Epidemiology & Infection assessed the prevalence of Trypanosoma cruzi, the causative agent of Chagas disease, in triatomine bugs from El Paso County, Texas, and southern New Mexico. 88.5% of the 26 triatomine bugs collected from woodland and urban environments tested positive for Trypanosoma cruzi. The finding represents an increase in prevalence calculated by a previous study in the same region in 2021, which estimated a prevalence of 63.3%. Researchers highlighted the growing threat of locally acquired Chagas disease in the southwest, particularly in areas along the US-Mexico border. [Confidence: Very High]