Resources with keywords: Zoonotic Diseases
State health notices documented fatal tick-borne infections across the Northeast. Rhode Island confirmed a fatal neuroinvasive Powassan virus case, marking the state’s third case in 2026. Simultaneously, Stony Brook Medicine confirmed the emergence of Bourbon virus on Long Island, transmitted by expanding Lone Star ticks (Amblyomma americanum). Bourbon virus causes acute leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, and organ failure with no commercial diagnostic assays. Laboratories performing tick identification or clinical blood analysis must operate under BSL-2 containment inside Class II Biosafety Cabinets, with tick dissection restricted to secondary containment.
On September 10, 2026, the CDC issued CDCHAN-00533 warning of rising human rabies exposures and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) delivery errors. Inquiries rose 17%, with a 76% surge in rabies immune globulin (HRIG) use. Key clinical errors include gluteal vaccination, failing to infiltrate wounds with HRIG, and co-administering HRIG and vaccine in the same syringe. Routine diagnostic work on animal neural tissues or patient specimens requires BSL-2 containment by pre-vaccinated personnel. High-concentration viral propagation strictly requires BSL-3 facilities.
Mooring EQ, Koval WT, Routledge I, et al.
Claudio Mafra, Paulo Brandão and Luis Ochoa
As of 18 May: 10 cases (8 lab-confirmed), 3 deaths. No confirmed U.S. Andes virus cases. Clinical laboratories advised to handle specimens from suspected HPS patients under BSL-2 enhanced precautions (Class II BSC, respirator). Andes virus is NOT a U.S. Select Agent, but laboratory directors should review biosafety risk assessments for specimen processing. Serology (IgM/IgG ELISA) and RT-PCR are diagnostic methods of choice; CDC DHCPP available for testing support.
As of 18 May: 10 cases (8 lab-confirmed), 3 deaths. No confirmed U.S. Andes virus cases. Clinical laboratories advised to handle specimens from suspected HPS patients under BSL-2 enhanced precautions (Class II BSC, respirator). Andes virus is NOT a U.S. Select Agent, but laboratory directors should review biosafety risk assessments for specimen processing. Serology (IgM/IgG ELISA) and RT-PCR are diagnostic methods of choice; CDC DHCPP available for testing support.
Includes basic information on rodent control and disposal
Kraus AA, Priemer C, Heider H, Kruger DH, Ulrich R.
