Top 5 Infectious Disease News Stories Week of October 4-11

Outbreak of Burkholderia multivorans Infections Associated With Contaminated Ice Machines

An investigation in California hospitals over the past four years has linked the use of ice and tap water in clinical settings to potential infections. The CDC's MMWR reported 23 cases of infections caused by Burkholderia multivorans (ST659) at two Southern California hospitals, attributed to contaminated ice and water from machines. In response, health officials advised halting the use of ice and tap water for clinical care, while an investigation is ongoing to identify contamination sources. Additionally, 23 previously unreported cases of B multivorans ST659 were found in other hospitals, all using the same brand of ice machines and similar sanitizing products, with the bacterium isolated from samples in two locations. B multivorans is a resistant gram-negative bacillus that poses a risk, especially to immunocompromised patients.

Hepatitis Treatment Market Projected to Reach USD 30.2 Billion by 2032

The global hepatitis treatment market is not just a financial figure; it represents a crucial aspect of addressing a silent disease affecting millions. According to a report from Global Market Insights Inc, the market is projected to reach USD 30.2 billion by 2032, growing from USD 22.2 billion in 2023 at a CAGR of 3.5%. This growth is driven by the rising incidence of hepatitis B and C, increased awareness, and advancements in drug development, including antiviral therapies and immunotherapies, as well as improved diagnostic technologies like PCR testing that enhance early detection and patient care.

Optimizing Vancomycin Therapy: A Review of AUC Calculation Techniques

The 2020 consensus guidelines for vancomycin therapeutic monitoring recommend targeting an area under the curve (AUC) of 400-600 mg*h/L to enhance efficacy and reduce toxicity. Two methods for calculating AUC are suggested: a first-order pharmacokinetic (PK) equation and Bayesian software. The first-order PK method uses two post-infusion vancomycin levels to estimate patient-specific AUC and is validated for steady-state estimation. Its main advantages include simplicity and accessibility, but it requires new levels when a patient's hemodynamic status or renal function changes.

Continued Food Recalls and Safety Concerns from the First Week of October 2024

Recent food recalls due to contamination risks include chicken and duck eggs from Milo's Poultry Farms linked to Salmonella, prompting a Class I recall affecting 65 infections. The FDA also recalled all Diamond Shruumz-brand products after 175 illnesses were reported, and Youngstown Grape Distributors recalled Happy Moose Juice due to processing issues. Supreme Service Solutions recalled guacamole and vegetables for suspected Listeria contamination, while Blue Tape Sriracha recalled hot sauce for lack of proper licensing. The FDA elevated the risk classification for certain Supreme Produce vegetable products, urging consumer disposal.

Evaluating Safety and Efficacy of Vaxart's Oral Vaccine's Impact on COVID-19 Variants

In Part 2 of the discussion with James F. Cummings, MD, he emphasizes the need for a stronger response to emerging COVID-19 variants, focusing on protecting high-risk populations and addressing vaccine hesitancy through easier administration methods. He highlights the initial successes in vaccine development, attributing them to significant investments in capabilities and technologies, along with effective biosurveillance. He argues that while the initial response was commendable, a more durable and adaptable strategy is necessary to counter the virus's frequent mutations, advocating for vaccines that provide lasting protection, particularly through mucosal immunity.