Last data update: May 06, 2024. (Total: 46732 publications since 2009)
Records 1-20 (of 20 Records) |
Query Trace: Hunter JC[original query] |
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Notes from the field: Nontuberculous mycobacteria infections after cosmetic surgery procedures in Florida - nine states, 2022-2023
Saunders KE , Reyes JM , Cyril L , Mitchell M , Colter S , Erskine J , McNamara KX , Hunter JC , Perkins KM , Charles A . MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2024 73 (3) 66-67 |
Outbreaks of SARS-CoV-2 infections in nursing homes during periods of Delta and Omicron predominance, United States, July 2021-March 2022
Wilson WW , Keaton AA , Ochoa LG , Hatfield KM , Gable P , Walblay KA , Teran RA , Shea M , Khan U , Stringer G , Ganesan M , Gilbert J , Colletti JG , Grogan EM , Calabrese C , Hennenfent A , Perlmutter R , Janiszewski KA , Brandeburg C , Kamal-Ahmed I , Strand K , Donahue M , Ashraf MS , Berns E , MacFarquhar J , Linder ML , Tran DJ , Kopp P , Walker RM , Ess R , Baggs J , Jernigan JA , Kallen A , Hunter JC . Emerg Infect Dis 2023 29 (4) 761-770 SARS-CoV-2 infections among vaccinated nursing home residents increased after the Omicron variant emerged. Data on booster dose effectiveness in this population are limited. During July 2021-March 2022, nursing home outbreaks in 11 US jurisdictions involving >3 infections within 14 days among residents who had received at least the primary COVID-19 vaccine(s) were monitored. Among 2,188 nursing homes, 1,247 outbreaks were reported in the periods of Delta (n = 356, 29%), mixed Delta/Omicron (n = 354, 28%), and Omicron (n = 536, 43%) predominance. During the Omicron-predominant period, the risk for infection within 14 days of an outbreak start was lower among boosted residents than among residents who had received the primary vaccine series alone (risk ratio [RR] 0.25, 95% CI 0.19-0.33). Once infected, boosted residents were at lower risk for all-cause hospitalization (RR 0.48, 95% CI 0.40-0.49) and death (RR 0.45, 95% CI 0.34-0.59) than primary vaccine-only residents. |
Severe acute respiratory coronavirus virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) outbreaks in nursing homes involving residents who had completed a primary coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine series-13 US jurisdictions, July-November 2021.
Wyatt Wilson W , Keaton AA , Ochoa LG , Hatfield KM , Gable P , Walblay KA , Teran RA , Shea M , Khan U , Stringer G , Colletti JG , Grogan EM , Calabrese C , Hennenfent A , Perlmutter R , Janiszewski KA , Kamal-Ahmed I , Strand K , Berns E , MacFarquhar J , Linder M , Tran DJ , Kopp P , Walker RM , Ess R , Read JS , Yingst C , Baggs J , Jernigan JA , Kallen A , Hunter JC . Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 2023 44 (6) 1-5 Among nursing home outbreaks of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) with ≥3 breakthrough infections when the predominant severe acute respiratory coronavirus virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) variant circulating was the SARS-CoV-2 δ (delta) variant, fully vaccinated residents were 28% less likely to be infected than were unvaccinated residents. Once infected, they had approximately half the risk for all-cause hospitalization and all-cause death compared with unvaccinated infected residents. |
Evaluation of a Virtual Training to Enhance Public Health Capacity for COVID-19 Infection Prevention and Control in Nursing Homes.
Penna AR , Hunter JC , Sanchez GV , Mohelsky R , Barnes LEA , Benowitz I , Crist MB , Dozier TR , Elbadawi LI , Glowicz JB , Jones H , Keaton AA , Ogundimu A , Perkins KM , Perz JF , Powell KM , Cochran RL , Stone ND , White KA , Weil LM . J Public Health Manag Pract 2022 28 (6) 682-692 CONTEXT: Between April 2020 and May 2021, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) awarded more than $40 billion to health departments nationwide for COVID-19 prevention and response activities. One of the identified priorities for this investment was improving infection prevention and control (IPC) in nursing homes. PROGRAM: CDC developed a virtual course to train new and less experienced public health staff in core healthcare IPC principles and in the application of CDC COVID-19 healthcare IPC guidance for nursing homes. IMPLEMENTATION: From October 2020 to August 2021, the CDC led training sessions for 12 cohorts of public health staff using pretraining reading materials, case-based scenarios, didactic presentations, peer-learning opportunities, and subject matter expert-led discussions. Multiple electronic assessments were distributed to learners over time to measure changes in self-reported knowledge and confidence and to collect feedback on the course. Participating public health programs were also assessed to measure overall course impact. EVALUATION: Among 182 enrolled learners, 94% completed the training. Most learners were infection preventionists (42%) or epidemiologists (38%), had less than 1 year of experience in their health department role (75%), and had less than 1 year of subject matter experience (54%). After training, learners reported increased knowledge and confidence in applying the CDC COVID-19 healthcare IPC guidance for nursing homes (≥81%) with the greatest increase in performing COVID-19 IPC consultations and assessments (87%). The majority of participating programs agreed that the course provided an overall benefit (88%) and reduced training burden (72%). DISCUSSION: The CDC's virtual course was effective in increasing public health capacity for COVID-19 healthcare IPC in nursing homes and provides a possible model to increase IPC capacity for other infectious diseases and other healthcare settings. Future virtual healthcare IPC courses could be enhanced by tailoring materials to health department needs, reinforcing training through applied learning experiences, and supporting mechanisms to retain trained staff. |
Investigation of a Suspect SARS-CoV-2 and Influenza A Mixed Outbreak: Lessons Learned for Long-Term Care Facilities Nationwide.
Schrodt CA , Malenfant JH , Hunter JC , Slifka KJ , Campbell A , Stone N , Whitehouse ER , Wittry B , Christensen B , Barnes JR , Brammer L , Hemarajata P , Green NM , Civen R , Gounder PP , Rao AK . Clin Infect Dis 2021 73 S77-S80 A suspected outbreak of influenza A and SARS-CoV-2 at a long-term care facility in Los Angeles County was months later, determined to not involve influenza. To prevent inadvertent transmission of infections, facilities should use highly specific influenza diagnostics and follow CDC guidelines that specifically address infection control challenges. |
Lack of Serologic Evidence of Infection Among Health Care Personnel and Other Contacts of First 2 Confirmed Patients With COVID-19 in Illinois, 2020.
McPherson TD , Ghinai I , Binder AM , Freeman BD , Hoskin Snelling C , Hunter JC , Anderson KM , Davenport P , Rudd DL , Zafer M , Christiansen D , Joshi K , Rubin R , Black SR , Fricchione MJ , Pacilli M , Walblay KA , Korpics J , Moeller D , Quartey-Kumapley P , Wang C , Charles EM , Kauerauf J , Patel MT , Disari VS , Fischer M , Jacobs MW , Lester SN , Midgley CM , Rasheed MAU , Reese HE , Verani JR , Wallace M , Watson JT , Thornburg NJ , Layden JE , Kirking HL . Public Health Rep 2020 136 (1) 88-96 OBJECTIVES: Widespread global transmission of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the virus causing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), continues. Many questions remain about asymptomatic or atypical infections and transmission dynamics. We used comprehensive contact tracing of the first 2 confirmed patients in Illinois with COVID-19 and serologic SARS-CoV-2 antibody testing to determine whether contacts had evidence of undetected COVID-19. METHODS: Contacts were eligible for serologic follow-up if previously tested for COVID-19 during an initial investigation or had greater-risk exposures. Contacts completed a standardized questionnaire during the initial investigation. We classified exposure risk as high, medium, or low based on interactions with 2 index patients and use of personal protective equipment (PPE). Serologic testing used a SARS-CoV-2 spike enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay on serum specimens collected from participants approximately 6 weeks after initial exposure to either index patient. The 2 index patients provided serum specimens throughout their illness. We collected data on demographic, exposure, and epidemiologic characteristics. RESULTS: Of 347 contacts, 110 were eligible for serologic follow-up; 59 (17% of all contacts) enrolled. Of these, 53 (90%) were health care personnel and 6 (10%) were community contacts. Seventeen (29%) reported high-risk exposures, 15 (25%) medium-risk, and 27 (46%) low-risk. No participant had evidence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies. The 2 index patients had antibodies detected at dilutions >1:6400 within 4 weeks after symptom onset. CONCLUSIONS: In serologic follow-up of the first 2 known patients in Illinois with COVID-19, we found no secondary transmission among tested contacts. Lack of seroconversion among these contacts adds to our understanding of conditions (ie, use of PPE) under which SARS-CoV-2 infections might not result in transmission and demonstrates that SARS-CoV-2 antibody testing is a useful tool to verify epidemiologic findings. |
Clinical and virologic characteristics of the first 12 patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in the United States.
Kujawski SA , Wong KK , Collins JP , Epstein L , Killerby ME , Midgley CM , Abedi GR , Ahmed NS , Almendares O , Alvarez FN , Anderson KN , Balter S , Barry V , Bartlett K , Beer K , Ben-Aderet MA , Benowitz I , Biggs HM , Binder AM , Black SR , Bonin B , Bozio CH , Brown CM , Bruce H , Bryant-Genevier J , Budd A , Buell D , Bystritsky R , Cates J , Charles EM , Chatham-Stephens K , Chea N , Chiou H , Christiansen D , Chu V , Cody S , Cohen M , Conners EE , Curns AT , Dasari V , Dawson P , DeSalvo T , Diaz G , Donahue M , Donovan S , Duca LM , Erickson K , Esona MD , Evans S , Falk J , Feldstein LR , Fenstersheib M , Fischer M , Fisher R , Foo C , Fricchione MJ , Friedman O , Fry A , Galang RR , Garcia MM , Gerber SI , Gerrard G , Ghinai I , Gounder P , Grein J , Grigg C , Gunzenhauser JD , Gutkin GI , Haddix M , Hall AJ , Han GS , Harcourt J , Harriman K , Haupt T , Haynes AK , Holshue M , Hoover C , Hunter JC , Jacobs MW , Jarashow C , Joshi K , Kamali T , Kamili S , Kim L , Kim M , King J , Kirking HL , Kita-Yarbro A , Klos R , Kobayashi M , Kocharian A , Komatsu KK , Koppaka R , Layden JE , Li Y , Lindquist S , Lindstrom S , Link-Gelles R , Lively J , Livingston M , Lo K , Lo J , Lu X , Lynch B , Madoff L , Malapati L , Marks G , Marlow M , Mathisen GE , McClung N , McGovern O , McPherson TD , Mehta M , Meier A , Mello L , Moon SS , Morgan M , Moro RN , Murray J , Murthy R , Novosad S , Oliver SE , O’Shea J , Pacilli M , Paden CR , Pallansch MA , Patel M , Patel S , Pedraza I , Pillai SK , Pindyck T , Pray I , Queen K , Quick N , Reese H , Reporter R , Rha B , Rhodes H , Robinson S , Robinson P , Rolfes MA , Routh JA , Rubin R , Rudman SL , Sakthivel SK , Scott S , Shepherd C , Shetty V , Smith EA , Smith S , Stierman B , Stoecker W , Sunenshine R , Sy-Santos R , Tamin A , Tao Y , Terashita D , Thornburg NJ , Tong S , Traub E , Tural A , Uehara A , Uyeki TM , Vahey G , Verani JR , Villarino E , Wallace M , Wang L , Watson JT , Westercamp M , Whitaker B , Wilkerson S , Woodruff RC , Wortham JM , Wu T , Xie A , Yousaf A , Zahn M , Zhang J . Nat Med 2020 26 (6) 861-868 Data on the detailed clinical progression of COVID-19 in conjunction with epidemiological and virological characteristics are limited. In this case series, we describe the first 12 US patients confirmed to have COVID-19 from 20 January to 5 February 2020, including 4 patients described previously(1-3). Respiratory, stool, serum and urine specimens were submitted for SARS-CoV-2 real-time reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (rRT-PCR) testing, viral culture and whole genome sequencing. Median age was 53 years (range: 21-68); 8 patients were male. Common symptoms at illness onset were cough (n = 8) and fever (n = 7). Patients had mild to moderately severe illness; seven were hospitalized and demonstrated clinical or laboratory signs of worsening during the second week of illness. No patients required mechanical ventilation and all recovered. All had SARS-CoV-2 RNA detected in respiratory specimens, typically for 2-3 weeks after illness onset. Lowest real-time PCR with reverse transcription cycle threshold values in the upper respiratory tract were often detected in the first week and SARS-CoV-2 was cultured from early respiratory specimens. These data provide insight into the natural history of SARS-CoV-2. Although infectiousness is unclear, highest viral RNA levels were identified in the first week of illness. Clinicians should anticipate that some patients may worsen in the second week of illness. |
First known person-to-person transmission of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in the USA.
Ghinai I , McPherson TD , Hunter JC , Kirking HL , Christiansen D , Joshi K , Rubin R , Morales-Estrada S , Black SR , Pacilli M , Fricchione MJ , Chugh RK , Walblay KA , Ahmed NS , Stoecker WC , Hasan NF , Burdsall DP , Reese HE , Wallace M , Wang C , Moeller D , Korpics J , Novosad SA , Benowitz I , Jacobs MW , Dasari VS , Patel MT , Kauerauf J , Charles EM , Ezike NO , Chu V , Midgley CM , Rolfes MA , Gerber SI , Lu X , Lindstrom S , Verani JR , Layden JE . Lancet 2020 395 (10230) 1137-1144 BACKGROUND: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), first detected in China in December, 2019. In January, 2020, state, local, and federal public health agencies investigated the first case of COVID-19 in Illinois, USA. METHODS: Patients with confirmed COVID-19 were defined as those with a positive SARS-CoV-2 test. Contacts were people with exposure to a patient with COVID-19 on or after the patient's symptom onset date. Contacts underwent active symptom monitoring for 14 days following their last exposure. Contacts who developed fever, cough, or shortness of breath became persons under investigation and were tested for SARS-CoV-2. A convenience sample of 32 asymptomatic health-care personnel contacts were also tested. FINDINGS: Patient 1-a woman in her 60s-returned from China in mid-January, 2020. One week later, she was hospitalised with pneumonia and tested positive for SARS-CoV-2. Her husband (Patient 2) did not travel but had frequent close contact with his wife. He was admitted 8 days later and tested positive for SARS-CoV-2. Overall, 372 contacts of both cases were identified; 347 underwent active symptom monitoring, including 152 community contacts and 195 health-care personnel. Of monitored contacts, 43 became persons under investigation, in addition to Patient 2. These 43 persons under investigation and all 32 asymptomatic health-care personnel tested negative for SARS-CoV-2. INTERPRETATION: Person-to-person transmission of SARS-CoV-2 occurred between two people with prolonged, unprotected exposure while Patient 1 was symptomatic. Despite active symptom monitoring and testing of symptomatic and some asymptomatic contacts, no further transmission was detected. FUNDING: None. |
Differences among incidence rates of invasive listeriosis in the U.S. FoodNet population by age, sex, race/ethnicity, and pregnancy status, 2008-2016
Pohl AM , Pouillot R , Bazaco MC , Wolpert BJ , Healy JM , Bruce BB , Laughlin ME , Hunter JC , Dunn JR , Hurd S , Rowlands JV , Saupe A , Vugia DJ , Van Doren JM . Foodborne Pathog Dis 2019 16 (4) 290-297 Listeria monocytogenes is a foodborne pathogen that disproportionally affects pregnant females, older adults, and immunocompromised individuals. Using U.S. Foodborne Diseases Active Surveillance Network (FoodNet) surveillance data, we examined listeriosis incidence rates and rate ratios (RRs) by age, sex, race/ethnicity, and pregnancy status across three periods from 2008 to 2016, as recent incidence trends in U.S. subgroups had not been evaluated. The invasive listeriosis annual incidence rate per 100,000 for 2008-2016 was 0.28 cases among the general population (excluding pregnant females), and 3.73 cases among pregnant females. For adults >/=70 years, the annual incidence rate per 100,000 was 1.33 cases. No significant change in estimated listeriosis incidence was found over the 2008-2016 period, except for a small, but significantly lower pregnancy-associated rate in 2011-2013 when compared with 2008-2010. Among the nonpregnancy-associated cases, RRs increased with age from 0.43 (95% confidence interval: 0.25-0.73) for 0- to 14-year olds to 44.9 (33.5-60.0) for >/=85-year olds, compared with 15- to 44-year olds. Males had an incidence of 1.28 (1.12-1.45) times that of females. Compared with non-Hispanic whites, the incidence was 1.57 (1.18-1.20) times higher among non-Hispanic Asians, 1.49 (1.22-1.83) among non-Hispanic blacks, and 1.73 (1.15-2.62) among Hispanics. Among females of childbearing age, non-Hispanic Asian females had 2.72 (1.51-4.89) and Hispanic females 3.13 (2.12-4.89) times higher incidence than non-Hispanic whites. We observed a higher percentage of deaths among older patient groups compared with 15- to 44-year olds. This study is the first characterizing higher RRs for listeriosis in the United States among non-Hispanic blacks and Asians compared with non-Hispanic whites. This information for public health risk managers may spur further research to understand if differences in listeriosis rates relate to differences in consumption patterns of foods with higher contamination levels, food handling practices, comorbidities, immunodeficiencies, health care access, or other factors. |
Listeriosis outbreaks associated with soft cheeses, United States, 1998-2014
Jackson KA , Gould LH , Hunter JC , Kucerova Z , Jackson B . Emerg Infect Dis 2018 24 (6) 1116-1118 Since 2006, the number of reported US listeriosis outbreaks associated with cheese made under unsanitary conditions has increased. Two-thirds were linked to Latin-style soft cheese, often affecting pregnant Hispanic women and their newborns. Adherence to pasteurization protocols and sanitation measures to avoid contamination after pasteurization can reduce future outbreaks. |
Response to emergence of Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, 2013-2014
Al Hosani FI , Pringle K , Al Mulla M , Kim L , Pham H , Alami NN , Khudhair A , Hall AJ , Aden B , El Saleh F , Al Dhaheri W , Al Bandar Z , Bunga S , Abou Elkheir K , Tao Y , Hunter JC , Nguyen D , Turner A , Pradeep K , Sasse J , Weber S , Tong S , Whitaker BL , Haynes LM , Curns A , Gerber SI . Emerg Infect Dis 2016 22 (7) 1162-8 In January 2013, several months after Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) was first identified in Saudi Arabia, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, began surveillance for MERS-CoV. We analyzed medical chart and laboratory data collected by the Health Authority-Abu Dhabi during January 2013-May 2014. Using real-time reverse transcription PCR, we tested respiratory tract samples for MERS-CoV and identified 65 case-patients. Of these patients, 23 (35%) were asymptomatic at the time of testing, and 4 (6%) showed positive test results for >3 weeks (1 had severe symptoms and 3 had mild symptoms). We also identified 6 clusters of MERS-CoV cases. This report highlights the potential for virus shedding by mildly ill and asymptomatic case-patients. These findings will be useful for MERS-CoV management and infection prevention strategies. |
Transmission of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus Infections in Healthcare Settings, Abu Dhabi.
Hunter JC , Nguyen D , Aden B , Al Bandar Z , Al Dhaheri W , Abu Elkheir K , Khudair A , Al Mulla M , El Saleh F , Imambaccus H , Al Kaabi N , Sheikh FA , Sasse J , Turner A , Abdel Wareth L , Weber S , Al Ameri A , Abu Amer W , Alami NN , Bunga S , Haynes LM , Hall AJ , Kallen AJ , Kuhar D , Pham H , Pringle K , Tong S , Whitaker BL , Gerber SI , Al Hosani FI . Emerg Infect Dis 2016 22 (4) 647-56 Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) infections sharply increased in the Arabian Peninsula during spring 2014. In Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, these infections occurred primarily among healthcare workers and patients. To identify and describe epidemiologic and clinical characteristics of persons with healthcare-associated infection, we reviewed laboratory-confirmed MERS-CoV cases reported to the Health Authority of Abu Dhabi during January 1, 2013-May 9, 2014. Of 65 case-patients identified with MERS-CoV infection, 27 (42%) had healthcare-associated cases. Epidemiologic and genetic sequencing findings suggest that 3 healthcare clusters of MERS-CoV infection occurred, including 1 that resulted in 20 infected persons in 1 hospital. MERS-CoV in healthcare settings spread predominantly before MERS-CoV infection was diagnosed, underscoring the importance of increasing awareness and infection control measures at first points of entry to healthcare facilities. |
Burden of nursing home-onset Clostridium difficile infection in the united states: Estimates of incidence and patient outcomes
Hunter JC , Mu Y , Dumyati GK , Farley MM , Winston LG , Johnston HL , Meek JI , Perlmutter R , Holzbauer SM , Beldavs ZG , Phipps EC , Dunn JR , Cohen JA , Avillan J , Stone ND , Gerding DN , McDonald LC , Lessa FC . Open Forum Infect Dis 2016 3 (1) ofv196 BACKGROUND: Approximately 4 million Americans receive nursing home (NH) care annually. Nursing home residents commonly have risk factors for Clostridium difficile infection (CDI), including advanced age and antibiotic exposures. We estimated national incidence of NH-onset (NHO) CDI and patient outcomes. METHODS: We identified NHO-CDI cases from population-based surveillance of 10 geographic areas in the United States. Cases were defined by C difficile-positive stool collected in an NH (or from NH residents in outpatient settings or ≤3 days after hospital admission) without a positive stool in the prior 8 weeks. Medical records were reviewed on a sample of cases. Incidence was estimated using regression models accounting for age and laboratory testing method; sampling weights were applied to estimate hospitalizations, recurrences, and deaths. RESULTS: A total of 3503 NHO-CDI cases were identified. Among 262 sampled cases, median age was 82 years, 76% received antibiotics in the 12 weeks prior to the C difficile-positive specimen, and 57% were discharged from a hospital in the month before specimen collection. After adjusting for age and testing method, the 2012 national estimate for NHO-CDI incidence was 112 800 cases (95% confidence interval [CI], 93 400-131 800); 31 400 (28%) were hospitalized within 7 days after a positive specimen (95% CI, 25 500-37 300), 20 900 (19%) recurred within 14-60 days (95% CI, 14 600-27 100), and 8700 (8%) died within 30 days (95% CI, 6600-10 700). CONCLUSIONS: Nursing home onset CDI is associated with substantial morbidity and mortality. Strategies focused on infection prevention in NHs and appropriate antibiotic use in both NHs and acute care settings may decrease the burden of NHO CDI. |
Active tracing and monitoring of contacts associated with the first cluster of Ebola in the United States
Chung WM , Smith JC , Weil LM , Hughes SM , Joyner SN , Hall EM , Ritch J , Srinath D , Goodman E , Chevalier MS , Epstein L , Hunter JC , Kallen AJ , Karwowski MP , Kuhar DT , Smith C , Petersen LR , Mahon BE , Lakey DL , Schrag SJ . Ann Intern Med 2015 163 (3) 164-73 BACKGROUND: Following hospitalization of the first patient with Ebola virus disease diagnosed in the United States on 28 September 2014, contact tracing methods for Ebola were implemented. OBJECTIVE: To identify, risk-stratify, and monitor contacts of patients with Ebola. DESIGN: Descriptive investigation. SETTING: Dallas County, Texas, September to November 2014. PARTICIPANTS: Contacts of symptomatic patients with Ebola. MEASUREMENTS: Contact identification, exposure risk classification, symptom development, and Ebola. RESULTS: The investigation identified 179 contacts, 139 of whom were contacts of the index patient. Of 112 health care personnel (HCP) contacts of the index case, 22 (20%) had known unprotected exposures and 37 (30%) did not have known unprotected exposures but interacted with a patient or contaminated environment on multiple days. Transmission was confirmed in 2 HCP who had substantial interaction with the patient while wearing personal protective equipment. These HCP had 40 additional contacts. Of 20 community contacts of the index patient or the 2 HCP, 4 had high-risk exposures. Movement restrictions were extended to all 179 contacts; 7 contacts were quarantined. Seven percent (14 of 179) of contacts (1 community contact and 13 health care contacts) were evaluated for Ebola during the monitoring period. LIMITATION: Data cannot be used to infer whether in-person direct active monitoring is superior to active monitoring alone for early detection of symptomatic contacts. CONCLUSION: Contact tracing and monitoring approaches for Ebola were adapted to account for the evolving understanding of risks for unrecognized HCP transmission. HCP contacts in the United States without known unprotected exposures should be considered as having a low (but not zero) risk for Ebola and should be actively monitored for symptoms. Core challenges of contact tracing for high-consequence communicable diseases included rapid comprehensive contact identification, large-scale direct active monitoring of contacts, large-scale application of movement restrictions, and necessity of humanitarian support services to meet nonclinical needs of contacts. PRIMARY FUNDING SOURCE: None. |
Evolution of Ebola virus disease from exotic infection to global health priority, Liberia, mid-2014
Arwady MA , Bawo L , Hunter JC , Massaquoi M , Matanock A , Dahn B , Ayscue P , Nyenswah T , Forrester JD , Hensley LE , Monroe B , Schoepp RJ , Chen TH , Schaecher KE , George T , Rouse E , Schafer IJ , Pillai SK , De Cock KM . Emerg Infect Dis 2015 21 (4) 578-584 Over the span of a few weeks during July and August 2014, events in West Africa changed perceptions of Ebola virus disease (EVD) from an exotic tropical disease to a priority for global health security. We describe observations during that time of a field team from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and personnel of the Liberian Ministry of Health and Social Welfare. We outline the early epidemiology of EVD within Liberia, including the practical limitations on surveillance and the effect on the country's health care system, such as infections among health care workers. During this time, priorities included strengthening EVD surveillance; establishing safe settings for EVD patient care (and considering alternative isolation and care models when Ebola Treatment Units were overwhelmed); improving infection control practices; establishing an incident management system; and working with Liberian airport authorities to implement EVD screening of departing passengers. |
Notes from the field: adverse events associated with administration of simulation intravenous fluids to patients - United States, 2014
Robyn MP , Hunter JC , Burns A , Newman AP , White J , Clement EJ , Lutterloh E , Quinn M , Edens C , Epstein L , Seiber K , Nguyen D , Kallen A , Blog D . MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2015 64 (8) 226-7 On December 23, 2014, the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) was notified of adverse health events in two patients who had been inadvertently administered nonsterile, simulation 0.9% sodium chloride intravenous (IV) fluids at an urgent care facility. Simulation saline is a nonsterile product not meant for human or animal use; it is intended for use by medical trainees practicing IV administration of saline on mannequins or other training devices. Both patients experienced a febrile illness during product administration and were hospitalized; one patient developed sepsis and disseminated intravascular coagulation. Neither patient died. Staff members at the clinic reported having ordered the product through their normal medical supply distributor and not recognizing during administration that it was not intended for human use. |
Ebola virus disease cases among health care workers not working in Ebola treatment units - Liberia, June-August, 2014
Matanock A , Arwady MA , Ayscue P , Forrester JD , Gaddis B , Hunter JC , Monroe B , Pillai SK , Reed C , Schafer IJ , Massaquoi M , Dahn B , De Cock KM . MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2014 63 (46) 1077-81 West Africa is experiencing the largest Ebola virus disease (Ebola) epidemic in recorded history. Health care workers (HCWs) are at increased risk for Ebola. In Liberia, as of August 14, 2014, a total of 810 cases of Ebola had been reported, including 10 clusters of Ebola cases among HCWs working in facilities that were not Ebola treatment units (non-ETUs). The Liberian Ministry of Health and Social Welfare and CDC investigated these clusters by reviewing surveillance data, interviewing county health officials, HCWs, and contact tracers, and visiting health care facilities. Ninety-seven cases of Ebola (12% of the estimated total) were identified among HCWs; 62 HCW cases (64%) were part of 10 distinct clusters in non-ETU health care facilities, primarily hospitals. Early recognition and diagnosis of Ebola in patients who were the likely source of introduction to the HCWs (i.e., source patients) was missed in four clusters. Inconsistent recognition and triage of cases of Ebola, overcrowding, limitations in layout of physical spaces, lack of training in the use of and adequate supply of personal protective equipment (PPE), and limited supervision to ensure consistent adherence to infection control practices all were observed. Improving infection control infrastructure in non-ETUs is essential for protecting HCWs. Since August, the Liberian Ministry of Health and Social Welfare with a consortium of partners have undertaken collaborative efforts to strengthen infection control infrastructure in non-ETU health facilities. |
Cluster of Ebola cases among Liberian and U.S. health care workers in an Ebola treatment unit and adjacent hospital - Liberia, 2014
Forrester JD , Hunter JC , Pillai SK , Arwady MA , Ayscue P , Matanock A , Monroe B , Schafer IJ , Nyenswah TG , De Cock KM . MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2014 63 (41) 925-9 The ongoing Ebola virus disease (Ebola) epidemic in West Africa, like previous Ebola outbreaks, has been characterized by amplification in health care settings and increased risk for health care workers (HCWs), who often do not have access to appropriate personal protective equipment. In many locations, Ebola treatment units (ETUs) have been established to optimize care of patients with Ebola while maintaining infection control procedures to prevent transmission of Ebola virus. These ETUs are considered essential to containment of the epidemic. In July 2014, CDC assisted the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare of Liberia in investigating a cluster of five Ebola cases among HCWs who became ill while working in an ETU, an adjacent general hospital, or both. No common source of exposure or chain of transmission was identified. However, multiple opportunities existed for transmission of Ebola virus to HCWs, including exposure to patients with undetected Ebola in the hospital, inadequate use of personal protective equipment during cleaning and disinfection of environmental surfaces in the hospital, and potential transmission from an ill HCW to another HCW. No evidence was found of a previously unrecognized mode of transmission. Prevention recommendations included reinforcement of existing infection control guidance for both ETUs and general medical care settings, including measures to prevent cross-transmission in co-located facilities. |
Developing an incident management system to support Ebola response - Liberia, July-August 2014
Pillai SK , Nyenswah T , Rouse E , Arwady MA , Forrester JD , Hunter JC , Matanock A , Ayscue P , Monroe B , Schafer IJ , Poblano L , Neatherlin J , Montgomery JM , De Cock KM . MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2014 63 (41) 930-3 The ongoing Ebola virus disease (Ebola) outbreak in West Africa is the largest and most sustained Ebola epidemic recorded, with 6,574 cases. Among the five affected countries of West Africa (Liberia, Sierra Leone, Guinea, Nigeria, and Senegal), Liberia has had the highest number cases (3,458). This epidemic has severely strained the public health and health care infrastructure of Liberia, has resulted in restrictions in civil liberties, and has disrupted international travel. As part of the initial response, the Liberian Ministry of Health and Social Welfare (MOHSW) developed a national task force and technical expert committee to oversee the management of the Ebola-related activities. During the third week of July 2014, CDC deployed a team of epidemiologists, data management specialists, emergency management specialists, and health communicators to assist MOHSW in its response to the growing Ebola epidemic. One aspect of CDC's response was to work with MOHSW in instituting incident management system (IMS) principles to enhance the organization of the response. This report describes MOHSW's Ebola response structure as of mid-July, the plans made during the initial assessment of the response structure, the implementation of interventions aimed at improving the system, and plans for further development of the response structure for the Ebola epidemic in Liberia. |
New Delhi metallo-beta-lactamase-producing carbapenem-resistant Escherichia coli associated with exposure to duodenoscopes
Epstein L , Hunter JC , Arwady MA , Tsai V , Stein L , Gribogiannis M , Frias M , Guh AY , Laufer AS , Black S , Pacilli M , Moulton-Meissner H , Rasheed JK , Avillan JJ , Kitchel B , Limbago BM , MacCannell D , Lonsway D , Noble-Wang J , Conway J , Conover C , Vernon M , Kallen AJ . JAMA 2014 312 (14) 1447-55 IMPORTANCE: Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) producing the New Delhi metallo-beta-lactamase (NDM) are rare in the United States, but have the potential to add to the increasing CRE burden. Previous NDM-producing CRE clusters have been attributed to person-to-person transmission in health care facilities. OBJECTIVE: To identify a source for, and interrupt transmission of, NDM-producing CRE in a northeastern Illinois hospital. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS: Outbreak investigation among 39 case patients at a tertiary care hospital in northeastern Illinois, including a case-control study, infection control assessment, and collection of environmental and device cultures; patient and environmental isolate relatedness was evaluated with pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE). Following identification of a likely source, targeted patient notification and CRE screening cultures were performed. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES: Association between exposure and acquisition of NDM-producing CRE; results of environmental cultures and organism typing. RESULTS: In total, 39 case patients were identified from January 2013 through December 2013, 35 with duodenoscope exposure in 1 hospital. No lapses in duodenoscope reprocessing were identified; however, NDM-producing Escherichia coli was recovered from a reprocessed duodenoscope and shared more than 92% similarity to all case patient isolates by PFGE. Based on the case-control study, case patients had significantly higher odds of being exposed to a duodenoscope (odds ratio [OR], 78 [95% CI, 6.0-1008], P < .001). After the hospital changed its reprocessing procedure from automated high-level disinfection with ortho-phthalaldehyde to gas sterilization with ethylene oxide, no additional case patients were identified. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: In this investigation, exposure to duodenoscopes with bacterial contamination was associated with apparent transmission of NDM-producing E coli among patients at 1 hospital. Bacterial contamination of duodenoscopes appeared to persist despite the absence of recognized reprocessing lapses. Facilities should be aware of the potential for transmission of bacteria including antimicrobial-resistant organisms via this route and should conduct regular reviews of their duodenoscope reprocessing procedures to ensure optimal manual cleaning and disinfection. |
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