Top in ID: Undetected bird flu cases in veterinarians; CDC officers remain in positions
Three bovine veterinarians had undetected H5N1 avian influenza infections despite no apparent contact with infected cows, suggesting that there may be U.S. states with unidentified positive cases of bird flu, research shows.
According to a study published in Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, all three veterinarians were based in the U.S. and reported no symptoms.
“Like previous studies, this study underscores the potential for missed avian influenza A(H5) infections in people who work with animals, but the data suggest these undetected infections are uncommon,” the CDC told Healio.“Increased testing of herds and bulk milking tanks can help monitor for additional A(H5) positive herds and help better protect bovine veterinary practitioners and other animal workers.”.
It was the top story in infectious disease last week.
In another top story, officers in the CDC’s Epidemic Intelligence Service are still employed and continuing to investigate public health concerns and outbreaks, despite reports that President Donald J. Trump and Elon Musk had fired at least half of the officers to reduce government spending.
Read these and more top stories in infectious disease below:
Veterinarians had undetected bird flu infections, but such cases are rare, CDC says
Three bovine veterinary practitioners had evidence of prior infection with highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza despite having no apparent contact with infected cows, according to a study published in MMWR. Read more.
CDC disease detectives ‘remain in their positions,’ agency says
Despite recent reports, officers in the CDC’s famed Epidemic Intelligence Service — often referred to as “disease detectives” — have not been fired and continue to investigate outbreaks and public health concerns, according to the agency. Read more.
‘Exclusively indoor’ cats may have caught bird flu from their owners
Two indoor cats in Michigan died after being infected with bird flu that they may have contracted from their owners who work as dairy workers, according to a CDC report. Read more.
FDA sets date for decision on twice-yearly shots to prevent HIV
The FDA has accepted Gilead Sciences’ new drug application for lenacapavir as a long-lasting injectable to prevent HIV infection and set a date of June 19 to decide on its approval, Gilead announced Tuesday. Read more.
Bundle prevents central line-associated bloodstream infections in nursing homes
A prevention bundle reduced inflammation, infections and hospitalizations among nursing home residents with peripherally inserted central catheters, according to a study. Read more.