The resurgence of bird flu driven by migratory birds is raising concerns about the US's preparedness to handle outbreaks, complicated by government shutdowns, staff cuts, and delayed responses, with potential risks of transmission to humans and impacts on food prices.
Dr. Tsion Firew, a Rwandan emergency medicine chair, played a crucial role in managing Rwanda's successful response to its first Marburg virus outbreak, which had a low mortality rate of 23%. She faced personal risks, sent her children away for safety, and participated in experimental treatments, demonstrating resilience and dedication amid the deadly crisis. Her experience highlights the importance of science and effective public health strategies in combating infectious diseases.
Africa CDC has deployed experts to the Democratic Republic of Congo to investigate an outbreak of an unknown disease, referred to as "Disease X," which has a high mortality rate among children. The agency is collaborating with local health authorities and international partners to enhance disease monitoring and laboratory capabilities, focusing on genomic surveillance and decentralized infrastructure. This effort aims to improve outbreak response and preparedness, with Africa CDC providing advanced diagnostic tools and expertise to support the investigation and control measures.
Three mosquitoes collected near Sarasota, Florida, have tested positive for malaria, marking the first time in two decades that US mosquitoes have tested positive for the disease in connection to US-based cases. Four cases have been confirmed in Florida, with a possible fifth case under investigation. Officials have intensified efforts to control the outbreak, including trapping and testing local mosquitoes, informing residents, and conducting insecticide spraying. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a national health alert, urging clinicians to be vigilant for malaria cases in areas near the Florida and Texas clusters. However, the CDC states that the risk of locally acquired malaria in the US remains extremely low.