2024 MI Special Pathogens Response Network (SPRN) Conference
June 18, 2024 The 2024 Michigan Special Pathogens Response Network Conference will be held on June 18, 2024. This all day event will include training in the morning and an afternoon exercise for hospitals and EMS agencies. Save the Date for the 2024 MI SPRN Conference Newsletters from Corewell Health Corewell Health, the Michigan RESPTC hospital, one of two Regional Emerging Special Pathogens Treatment Center (RESPTC) in Region V is now publishing a monthly newsletter. Check out the first one by clicking below. Corewell Health Region V RESPTC Newsletter New Anthrax Vaccine Added to Arsenal of Defense Against Bioterrorism Anthrax poses a significant public health concern due to its potential use as a bioterrorism agent and its ability to cause severe illness in humans (for more information, read the spotlight on anthrax below). This past summer a new anthrax vaccine was added to the U.S. arsenal of defense against bioterrorism. On July 20, 2023, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Cyfendus for use in adults aged 18 to 65 years exposed to anthrax. Hepatitis B Antibody Assay Update As of December 19, 2023, Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) Bureau of Laboratories (BOL) has been offering the hepatitis B core antibody (HBcAb) test using chemiluminescent immunoassay (CLIA) technology on the Siemen’s Centaur XPT instrument. This assay is included in a hepatitis B panel that BOL is currently offering along with the hepatitis B surface antibody (HBsAb) and hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg). The addition of HBcAb is following CDC’s 2023 recommendations for hepatitis B screening and testing and will provide information regarding previous or current infections with hepatitis B and immune status of patients. Please ship specimens either on cold packs or frozen. If shipping supplies are needed, please visit BOL’s Laboratory Kit Order Tracking System (LKOTS) and request kit 8A: Lab Services (michigan.gov). When submitting samples using BOL's test requisition (DCH-0583), please write ‘HBcAb’ on this form to request the additional hepatitis B testing until an updated form is available. For further information concerning this change please contact Bacterial & Viral Serology Unit Manager Kristine Smith, [email protected], or Virology Section Manager Dr. Diana Riner, [email protected]. Hepatitis B - FAQs, Statistics, Data and Guidelines (CDC) Lab Services (michigan.gov) APHL Releases Testing Playbook for Biological Emergencies The Association of Public Health Laboratories (APHL) recently released the Testing Playbook for Biological Emergencies. This playbook provides federal, state, and local decision-makers with a clear and evidence-based guide for making rapid and effective decisions regarding the development, implementation, and scale-up of diagnostic testing at every stage in an infectious disease emergency. Spotlight: Anthrax Anthrax is an infectious disease caused by Bacillus anthracis, a gram-positive, rod-shaped bacteria. It is not contagious and cannot be passed from person to person. Anthrax occurs naturally in soil and commonly affects domestic and wild animals around the world. While anthrax is rare in the United States, due to vaccination programs for animals, it is common in agricultural regions of:
Additionally, anthrax is considered a likely agent in the case of a bioterrorism attack. Anthrax is one of the most likely agents to be used because:
More Information from North Dakota on anthrax cases within the state CDC's Anthrax Information for Healthcare Professionals World Health Organization Anthrax Information 2024 Michigan Communicable Disease Surveillance and Reporting Changes The updated 2024 Reportable Diseases in Michigan list is now available. This is Michigan's official list of mandatory reportable communicable disease conditions as described by the Michigan Communicable Disease Rules [Public Act 368 of 1978, 333.5111]. The Rules require MDHHS to annually review, update, and publish the list on the Department's website. The list is available in two formats:
The revised 2024 Healthcare Professional's Guide to Disease Reporting in Michigan (MDHHS Brick Book) is also available. A summary of changes can be found attached to this HAN message. All documents can be found under “Communicable Disease Reporting in Michigan” at www.michigan.gov/cdinfo. For questions regarding reportable diseases, please contact the MDHHS Communicable Disease Division at 517-335-8165. 2024 Michigan Communicable Disease Surveillance and Reporting Changes Project Firstline: PPE Video Preparedness Lunch and Learn Dec 23-March 24.pdf Gear up for a quick and crucial refresher! Our latest short video is all about the superhero gear of the healthcare world—Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)! Whether you're a seasoned pro or gearing up for the first time, PPE is your armor against germs — gloves, masks, gowns, and eyewear—all working together to keep you safe and others around you protected. PPE isn't just gear; it's a shield against infection. It's the barrier that stops germs from getting to you and prevents your germs from venturing out. Let's ensure that when it comes to wearing PPE, you're not just good—you're exceptional! Personal Protective Equipment Video (English) Personal Protective Equipment Video (Arabic)
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
Archives
March 2024
Categories |