Global & Disaster Medicine

Archive for the ‘Botulism’ Category

The Ukraine’s Ministry of Health has said “as of July 18, 2017, 81 cases of botulism were reported in Ukraine, 90 people fell ill, nine of them fatally”.

Daily Express

“…..It is so far unclear how the Ukrainians contracted botulism ….”

 


Ukrainians receive first antitoxin against botulism since 2014

ReliefWeb

“….Over the last months, Ukraine faced an outbreak of botulism – 76 cases recorded since the beginning of the year, 8 of them fatal. Ministry of Health of Ukraine faced a serious challenge fighting the current outbreak, as there are no botulism antitoxins registered in Ukraine since 2014. Moreover, there was no budget funding allocated for procurement of this kind.

International organizations were asked to help resolve the issue. United Nations Development Program reacted and expressed readiness to provide humanitarian response.

The antitoxin, which is produced only by a few manufacturers around the world, was sourced by UNDP within the shortest possible period. High-quality medicine manufactured in Canada arrived to airport in Kyiv today, from where it is being transferred to the specialized warehouse of the Ministry of Health.

Current shipment will allow to form the essential stock, which will be used to immediately cover new cases that might occur. Serums will be urgently provided in case of need…..”


In 2014, 123 cases of botulism were reported by 16 EU/EEA countries, including 91 cases reported as confirmed.

ECDC

Botulism -Europe_ Annual epidemiological report-2016:  Document

Key facts

  • In 2014, 123 cases of botulism were reported by 16 EU/EEA countries, including 91 cases reported as confirmed. Thirteen countries notified zero cases.
  • The notification rate was 0.02 cases per 100 000 population.
  • Romania notified the highest number of cases (N=31) and presented the highest rate (0.15 cases per 100 000 population
  • Methods

Click here for a detailed description of the methods used to produce this annual report

  • In 2014, 29 countries reported data, including 13 countries that reported zero cases.
  • Nine countries reported in accordance with the 2012 EU case definition, 13 countries used the 2008 EU case definition, and the remaining seven countries used other case definitions.
  • Botulism is a mandatorily notifiable disease in all reporting countries.

Epidemiology

In 2014, 123 cases were reported, including 91 confirmed cases, by a total of 16 EU/EEA countries. Thirteen countries had no cases. Italy and Liechtenstein had not reported data for 2014 at the time of the data extraction. The EU/EEA notification rate was 0.02 cases per 100 000 population (Table 1).

Romania (31 confirmed cases), Poland (17) and Hungary (12) were the countries accounting for most of the confirmed cases. Twelve countries reported between one and six confirmed cases each.

Romania (0.15 cases per 100 000), Hungary (0.12 cases per 100 000) and Lithuania (0.10 cases per 100 000) reported the highest rates in 2014 (Table 1).

Threats description for 2014

An outbreak of botulism among injecting drug users in Norway and Scotland started in December 2014. By February 2015, 23 cases of botulism had been reported [1]. The source of the infection was assumed to be contaminated heroin.

Discussion

Figure 3 shows an ascending trend in the rate of botulism notifications in the EU/EEA after July 2012. This observation is based on a small number of cases and does not necessarily represent a real increase in incidence.

The randomly occurring peaks may be explained by small-scale outbreaks due to locally produced food. Botulism cases are often detected as sporadic cases which may belong to household clusters. Case reports and retrospective analyses of cases are useful and complement the mandatory surveillance systems [2,3].

Public health conclusions

While the case definition for surveillance at the EU level focuses on C. botulinum as the etiological agent, sporadic clusters and cases due to type F toxin produced by C. baratii have been reported in recent years [4,5]. These botulism cases due to F toxin type are a cause of concern because the antitoxin is not readily available in Europe, and the commonly used antitoxins may not effectively neutralise toxin F. Preparedness plans may need to consider the timely access to antitoxins in order to cover a broad range of different toxin types, including toxin F [4,5]. In addition, subtyping of botulism neurotoxins is important to monitor the evolution of strains and its implications for public health as exemplified by the recent characterisation of a novel botulism neurotoxin subtype (BoNT/A8) in Germany [6].

References

  1. European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control. Wound botulism in people who inject heroin, Norway and the United Kingdom – 14 February 2015. Stockholm: ECDC; 2015. Available from: http://www.emcdda.europa.eu/system/files/publications/856/09-02-2015-RRA-Botulism-Norway%2C%20United%20Kingdom.pdf .
  2. Ambrožová H, Džupová O, Smíšková D, Roháčová H. Familial occurrence of botulism – A case report. Klinicka Mikrobiologie a Infekcni Lekarstvi. 2014;20(2):40-2.
  3. Lonati D, Flore L, Vecchio S, Giampreti A, Petrolini VM, Anniballi F, et al. Clinical management of foodborne botulism poisoning in emergency setting: An Italian case series. Clinical Toxicology. 2015;53(4):338.
  4. Castor C, Mazuet C, Saint-Leger M, Vygen S, Coutureau J, Durand M, et al. Cluster of two cases of botulism due to Clostridium baratii type F in France, November 2014. Euro Surveill. 2015;20(6):pii=21031.
  5. European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control. Scientific advice on type F botulism. Stockholm: ECDC; 2015. Available from: http://ecdc.europa.eu/en/publications/Publications/botulism-scientific-advice-type-F-botulism.pdf.
  6. Kull S, Schulz KM, Weisemann J, Kirchner S, Schreiber T, Bollenbach A, et al. Isolation and functional characterization of the novel Clostridium botulinum neurotoxin A8 subtype. PLoS One. 2015;10(2):e0116381.

 


The number of botulism cases reported in Ukraine during the past three months has risen to 62

Outbreak News

  • 9 have died.
  • Dried fish, both home prepared and commercially prepared has been linked to most of the botulism cases
  • Officials say some cases have been linked to home prepared stew.
  • There is a lack of  anti-botulinum serum in Ukraine

 


CDC’s Emergency Drugs for US Clinicians and Hospitals

CDC

Our Formulary

The following information is provided as an informational resource for guidance only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional judgment. These highlights and any hyperlinks may not include all the information needed to use each respective drug or biologic safely and effectively. See full prescribing information (package insert) or IND protocol for each respective drug or biologic, which accompany the product when it is delivered to the treating physician and/or pharmacist.

The Drug Service formulary is subject to change based on current public health needs, updates to treatment guidelines, and/or drug availability. For historical reference, we have included products no longer supplied by the Drug Service.

Product & Supplier Indication & Eligibility How Supplied
Anthrax Vaccine Absorbed

(Also known as “AVA”; BioThrax®, Emergent BioSolutions)

For the active immunization for the prevention of disease caused by Bacillus anthracis, in persons 18 through 65 years of age at high risk for exposure

Because the risk for anthrax infection in the general population is low, routine immunization is not recommended

The safety and efficacy of BioThrax® in a post-exposure setting have not been established.

Suspension for injection in 5 mL multidose vials, each containing 10 doses
Artesunate, intravenous

(Supplied to CDC by the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research)

For the treatment of severe malaria in patients who require parenteral (IV) therapy

Patient must meet the eligibility criteria in the IND protocol

110 mg; sterile dry-filled powder with phosphate buffer diluent for reconstitution
Benznidazole

(Benznidazol, Manufactured by LAFEPE)

For the treatment of American trypanosomiasis (Chagas disease)

Patient must meet the eligibility criteria in the IND protocol

100 mg double-scored tablet

12.5 mg dispersible tablet for pediatric use

Botulism Antitoxin Heptavalent (Equine), Types A-G

(Also known as “HBAT”; Manufactured by Cangene Corp. – BAT™)

For the treatment of symptomatic botulism following documented or suspected exposure to botulinum neurotoxin 20 mL or 50 mL single-use glass vial

May be received frozen or thawed

Diethylcarbamazine

(Also known as “DEC”; Supplied to CDC by the World Health Organization; Manufactured by E.I.P.I.C.O.)

For the treatment of certain filarial diseases, including lymphatic filariasis caused by infection with Wuchereria bancrofti, Brugia malayi, or Brugia timori; tropical pulmonary eosinophilia; and loiasis

For prophylactic use in persons determined to be at increased risk for Loa loa infection

Patient must meet the eligibility criteria in the IND protocol

100 mg tablet
Diphtheria Antitoxin (Equine)

(Also known as “DAT”; Manufactured by Instituto Butantan)

For prevention or treatment of actual or suspected cases of diphtheria

Patient must meet the eligibility criteria in the IND protocol

1 mL single-use ampule containing 10,000 units
Eflornithine

(Also known as “DFMO”; Supplied to CDC by the World Health Organization; Manufactured by Sanofi Aventis – Ornidyl®)

For the treatment of second-stage African trypanosomiasis (sleeping sickness) caused by Trypanosoma brucei gambiense, with involvement of the central nervous system 20 g/100 mL hypertonic solution for IV infusion

Must be diluted with Sterile Water for Injection before use

Melarsoprol

(Supplied to CDC by the World Health Organization; Manufactured by Sanofi Aventis – Arsobal®)

For the treatment of second-stage African trypanosomiasis (sleeping sickness), with involvement of the central nervous system

Patient must meet the eligibility criteria in the IND protocol

5 mL glass ampule containing 180 mg/5 mL (36 mg/mL)
Nifurtimox

(Supplied to CDC by the World Health Organization; Manufactured by Bayer – Lampit®)

For the treatment of American trypanosomiasis (Chagas disease)

Patient must meet the eligibility criteria in the IND protocol

120 mg double-scored tablet
Sodium Stibogluconate

(Manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline, UK – Pentostam®)

For the treatment of leishmaniasis

Patient must meet the eligibility criteria in the IND protocol

Solution for injection in 100 mL multidose bottle

100 mg pentavalent antimony (Sb) per mL

Suramin

(Supplied to CDC by the World Health Organization; Manufactured by Bayer – Germanin)

For the treatment of first-stage African trypanosomiasis (sleeping sickness) caused by Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense, without involvement of the central nervous system

Patient must meet the eligibility criteria in the IND protocol

1 gram of suramin for injection in a 10 mL vial (100 mg/mL solution of suramin sodium)

Must be reconstituted with 10 mL Sterile Water for Injection before use

Vaccinia Vaccine

(Also known as the “Smallpox Vaccine”; Manufactured by Sanofi Aventis – ACAM2000®)

For active immunization against smallpox disease for persons determined to be at high risk for smallpox infection Lyophilized powder reconstituted with diluent (provided)

Contains 100 doses per vial

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Anthrax Vaccine Adsorbed

Anthrax Vaccine Adsorbed (AVA) is indicated for the active immunization for the prevention of disease caused by Bacillus anthracis, in persons 18 through 65 years of age at high risk for exposure. The safety and efficacy of AVA in a post-exposure setting have not been established.

CDC provides anthrax vaccine for laboratory workers conducting research under federally funded projects who require preexposure vaccination based on their occupational risk.

Preexposure vaccination is recommended for laboratorians at risk for repeated exposure to fully virulent B. anthracis spores, such as those who 1) work with high concentrations of spores with potential for aerosol production; 2) handle environmental samples that might contain powders and are associated with anthrax investigations; 3) routinely work with pure cultures of B. anthracis; 4) frequently work in spore-contaminated areas after a bioterrorism attack; or 5) work in other settings where repeated exposures to B. anthracis aerosols may occur. Read more[PDF – 36 pages](https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/pdf/rr/rr5906.pdf).

More Information for Clinicians

CDC’s Anthrax Vaccination Website

Educational Toolkit for Clinicians (from Department of Defense Anthrax Immunization Program)

Vaccine Information Statement (VIS) for Anthrax Vaccine[PDF – 2 pages](https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/hcp/vis/vis-statements/anthrax.pdf)

Full Prescribing Information for BioThrax®

How to Request

Anthrax vaccine must be administered by or under the supervision of the physician who registers with CDC.

Contact the CDC Drug Service for more information.

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Artesunate, Intravenous

Artesunate is in the class of medications known as artemesinins, which are derivatives from the “qinghaosu” or sweet wormwood plant (Artemisia annua). Artesunate is not currently licensed by FDA but is made available in the United States under a CDC-sponsored IND protocol for treatment of documented cases of severe malaria(https://www.cdc.gov/malaria/about/index.html) that require parenteral therapy. Read more(https://www.cdc.gov/malaria/diagnosis_treatment/artesunate.html).

More Information for Clinicians

Diagnostic assistance for malaria is available through DPDx.

How to Request

Clinicians who wish to obtain artesunate for severe malaria should contact the CDC Malaria Hotline at 770-488-7788 (M-F, 8am-4:30pm, Eastern time) or, after hours, the CDC Emergency Operations Center (EOC) at 770-488-7100, and request to speak with a CDC Malaria Branch clinician. A Malaria Branch clinician will provide clinical consultation by telephone and, if indicated, authorize the emergency release of artesunate from one of the CDC Quarantine Stations located in major airports around the nation, ensuring delivery to any location in the United States within hours.

Requests for unapproved uses cannot be granted.

For non-emergency questions related to artesunate IV, contact the CDC Drug Service.

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Benznidazole

Benznidazole is a 2-nitroimidazole trypanocidal agent that was introduced in 1971 for the treatment of Trypanosoma cruzi infection—i.e., Chagas disease, also known as American trypanosomiasis(https://www.cdc.gov/parasites/chagas/). Benznidazole is one of two drugs available from CDC for the treatment of Chagas disease (the other is nifurtimox). In the United States, the need to have drugs available for treating Chagas disease has been increasing, largely because of implementation of T. cruzi blood-donor screening in 2007, which has identified chronically infected persons (mainly Latin American immigrants) who might benefit from treatment and has heightened awareness of Chagas disease.

More Information for Clinicians

Evaluation and Treatment of Chagas Disease in the United States: A Systematic Review (JAMA 2007: 298:2171-81)

Screening and Treatment of Chagas Disease in Organ Transplant Recipients in the United States: Recommendations from the Chagas in Transplant Working Group (American Journal of Transplantation, 2011: 672–680)

Diagnostic assistance for American trypanosomiasis is available through DPDx.

How to Request

Contact the CDC Drug Service for more information.

Questions regarding treatment of Chagas disease should be directed to CDC Parasitic Diseases Inquiries (404-718-4745; email chagas@cdc.gov) M-F 7:30am-4pm EST.

For emergencies (for example, acute Chagas disease with severe manifestations, Chagas disease in a newborn, or Chagas disease in an immunocompromised person) outside of regular business hours, call the CDC Emergency Operations Center (770-488-7100) and ask for the person on call for Parasitic Diseases.

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Botulism Antitoxin Heptavalent (Equine), Types A-G

Botulism Antitoxin Heptavalent (HBAT) contains equine-derived antibody to the seven known botulinum toxin types (A-G). HBAT is composed of <2% intact immunoglobulin G (IgG) and ≥90% Fab and F(ab’)2 immunoglobulin fragments. These fragments are created by the enzymatic cleavage and removal of Fc immunoglobulin components in a process sometimes referred to as despeciation. HBAT is supplied on an emergency basis for the treatment of persons thought to be suffering from botulism and works by neutralizing unbound toxin molecules. In 2010, HBAT became the only botulism antitoxin available in the United States for naturally occurring non-infant botulism.

It is available only from CDC because of its limited use and its relatively short expiration date. The antitoxin is stored at CDC Quarantine Stations located in major airports around the nation, ensuring delivery to any location in the United States within hours.

BabyBIG® (botulism immune globulin) remains available for infant botulism through the California Infant Botulism Treatment and Prevention Program.

More Information for Clinicians

Clinical Guidance

How to Request

Clinicians who suspect a diagnosis of botulism in a patient should immediately call their state health department’s 24-hour telephone number(https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/international/relres.html) to maintain effective botulism surveillance and to facilitate rapid detection of outbreaks. The state health department will contact CDC to arrange for a clinical consultation by telephone and, if indicated, release of botulism antitoxin. State health departments requesting botulism antitoxin should contact the CDC Emergency Operations Center (EOC) at 770-488-7100. Read more(https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm5232a8.htm).

For non-emergency questions concerning botulism antitoxin, contact the CDC Drug Service.

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Diethylcarbamazine (DEC)

DEC is an antihelminthic agent used for treatment of lymphatic filariasis (caused by infection with Wuchereria bancrofti, Brugia malayi, or Brugia timori), tropical pulmonary eosinophilia, and loiasis(https://www.cdc.gov/parasites/loiasis/); DEC also has prophylactic benefit for Loa loa infection. DEC has been used worldwide for more than 50 years. In the past, Wyeth-Ayerst Laboratories made DEC available as a licensed drug; in the late 1990s, because of unavailability of a bulk chemical supplier, Wyeth-Ayerst discontinued distribution of DEC in the United States.

More Information for Clinicians

Diagnostic assistance for filarial diseases is available through DPDx.

How to Request

Contact the CDC Drug Service for more information.

Questions regarding treatment of filarial diseases should be directed to CDC Parasitic Diseases Inquiries (404-718-4745; email parasites@cdc.gov) M-F 7:30am-4pm EST.

After-hours emergencies: 1-770-488-7100

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Diphtheria Antitoxin (Equine)

Diphtheria antitoxin (DAT) is used to prevent or treat diphtheria by neutralizing the toxins produced by Corynebacterium diphtheriae. DAT is a sterile, aqueous solution of the refined and concentrated proteins, chiefly globulins, containing antibodies obtained from the serum of horses that have been immunized against diphtheria toxin. DAT is available under an IND protocol sponsored by CDC and is released only for actual or suspected cases of diphtheria(https://www.cdc.gov/diphtheria/about/index.html). The antitoxin is stored at CDC Quarantine Stations located in major airports around the nation, ensuring delivery to any location in the United States within hours.

More Information for Clinicians

CDC’s Vaccine-Related Topics: Diphtheria Antitoxin(https://www.cdc.gov/diphtheria/dat.html)

How to Request

Clinicians who suspect a diagnosis of respiratory diphtheria can obtain DAT by contacting the Emergency Operations Center at 770-488-7100. They will be connected with the diphtheria duty officer, who will provide clinical consultation and, if indicated, initiate the release of diphtheria antitoxin.

For non-emergency questions concerning diphtheria antitoxin, contact the CDC Drug Service.

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Eflornithine

Eflornithine is an antitrypanosomal agent that inhibits the enzyme ornithine decarboxylase. Antitrypanosomal treatment is indicated for all persons diagnosed with African trypanosomiasis (sleeping sickness)(https://www.cdc.gov/parasites/sleepingsickness/); the choice of therapy depends on the infecting subspecies of the parasite and on the stage of the infection. Eflornithine is considered the drug of choice for the treatment of second-stage Trypanosoma brucei gambiense (West African) infection, with involvement of the central nervous system. It is not effective against T. b. rhodesiense (East African) infection (see melarsoprol). Although the manufacturer, Aventis, maintains its US licensure, eflornithine is not commercially available in the United States.

More Information for Clinicians

Human African trypanosomiasis, WHO

Diagnostic assistance for African trypanosomiasis is available through DPDx.

How to Request

Contact the CDC Drug Service for more information.

Questions regarding treatment of African trypanosomiasis should be directed to CDC Parasitic Diseases Inquiries (404-718-4745; email parasites@cdc.gov) M-F 7:30am-4pm EST.

For emergencies outside of regular business hours, call the CDC Emergency Operations Center (770-488-7100) and ask for the person on call for Parasitic Diseases.

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Melarsoprol

Melarsoprol is an organoarsenic compound with trypanocidal effects that has been used outside the United States since 1949. Antitrypanosomal treatment is indicated for all persons diagnosed with African trypanosomiasis (sleeping sickness)(https://www.cdc.gov/parasites/sleepingsickness/); the choice of therapy depends on the infecting subspecies of the parasite and on the stage of the infection. Melarsoprol is used for the treatment of second-stage infection (involving the central nervous system). It is the only available therapy for second-stage Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense (East African) infection, whereas eflornithine typically is used for second-stage T. b. gambiense (West African) infection.

More Information for Clinicians

Human African trypanosomiasis, WHO

Diagnostic assistance for African trypanosomiasis is available through DPDx.

How to Request

Contact the CDC Drug Service for more information.

Questions regarding treatment of African trypanosomiasis should be directed to CDC Parasitic Diseases Inquiries (404-718-4745; email parasites@cdc.gov) M-F 7:30am-4pm EST.

For emergencies outside of regular business hours, call the CDC Emergency Operations Center (770-488-7100) and ask for the person on call for Parasitic Diseases.

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Nifurtimox

Nifurtimox is a nitrofuran analog that was introduced in 1965 for the treatment of Trypanosoma cruzi infection—i.e., Chagas disease, also known as American trypanosomiasis(https://www.cdc.gov/parasites/chagas/). Nifurtimox is one of two drugs available from CDC for the treatment of Chagas disease (the other is benznidazole). In the United States, the need to have drugs available for treating Chagas disease has been increasing, largely because of implementation of T. cruzi blood-donor screening in 2007, which has identified chronically infected persons (mainly Latin American immigrants) who might benefit from treatment and has heightened awareness of Chagas disease.

More Information for Clinicians

Evaluation and Treatment of Chagas Disease in the United States: A Systematic Review (JAMA 2007: 298:2171-81)

Screening and Treatment of Chagas Disease in Organ Transplant Recipients in the United States: Recommendations from the Chagas in Transplant Working Group (American Journal of Transplantation, 2011: 672–680)

Diagnostic assistance for American trypanosomiasis is available through DPDx.

How to Request

Contact the CDC Drug Service for more information.

Questions regarding treatment of Chagas disease should be directed to CDC Parasitic Diseases Inquiries (404-718-4745; email chagas@cdc.gov) M-F 7:30am-4pm EST.

For emergencies (for example, acute Chagas disease with severe manifestations, Chagas disease in a newborn, or Chagas disease in an immunocompromised person) outside of regular business hours, call the CDC Emergency Operations Center (770-488-7100) and ask for the person on call for Parasitic Diseases.

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Sodium Stibogluconate

Sodium stibogluconate (Pentostam®) is a pentavalent antimony compound used for treatment of leishmaniasis(https://www.cdc.gov/parasites/leishmaniasis). The three main clinical syndromes in humans are visceral, cutaneous, and mucosal leishmaniasis. Pentostam is a well-established antileishmanial agent that has been used in many countries of the world for more than half a century.

More Information for Clinicians

Recommendations for Treating Leishmaniasis with Sodium Stibogluconate (Pentostam) and Review of Pertinent Clinical Studies (Am J Trop Med 1992:46(3):296-306)[PDF, 11 pages]

Diagnostic assistance for leishmaniasis is available through DPDx.

Practical Guide for Laboratory Diagnosis of Leishmaniasis[PDF, 4 pages](https://www.cdc.gov/parasites/leishmaniasis/resources/pdf/cdc_diagnosis_guide_leishmaniasis.pdf)

How to Request

Contact the CDC Drug Service for more information.

Questions regarding treatment of leishmaniasis should be directed to CDC Parasitic Diseases Inquiries (404-718-4745; email parasites@cdc.gov) M-F 7:30am-4pm EST.

After-hours emergencies: 1-770-488-7100

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Suramin

Suramin is a negatively charged, high-molecular-weight sulfated naphthylamine. It was introduced in the 1920s for the treatment of African trypanosomiasis (sleeping sickness)(https://www.cdc.gov/parasites/sleepingsickness/). Suramin generally is considered the drug of choice for first-stage Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense (East African) infection, without involvement of the central nervous system. Pentamidine typically is used for first-stage T. b. gambiense (West African) infection.

More Information for Clinicians

Human African trypanosomiasis, WHO

Diagnostic assistance for African trypanosomiasis is available through DPDx.

How to Request

Contact the CDC Drug Service for more information.

Questions regarding treatment of African trypanosomiasis should be directed to CDC Parasitic Diseases Inquiries (404-718-4745; email parasites@cdc.gov) M-F 7:30am-4pm EST.

For emergencies outside of regular business hours, call the CDC Emergency Operations Center (770-488-7100) and ask for the person on call for Parasitic Diseases.

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Vaccinia Vaccine, “Smallpox Vaccine”

Smallpox vaccine is made of live vaccinia virus derived from plaque purification cloning of Dryvax® (calf lymph vaccine, New York City Board of Health Strain) and grown in African Green Monkey kidney (Vero) cells and tested to be free of adventitious agents. It contains approximately 2.5 – 12.5 x 105 plaque-forming units per dose.

Smallpox was declared globally eradicated in 1980. In 1982, Wyeth Laboratories, the only active manufacturer of licensed vaccinia vaccine in the United States, discontinued production; and, in 1983, distribution to the civilian population was discontinued. Since January 1982, smallpox vaccination has not been required for international travelers, and International Certificates of Vaccination no longer include smallpox vaccination. ACAM2000® is a new-generation smallpox vaccine that was licensed in 2010 for use as a medical countermeasure held by the Strategic National Stockpile.

CDC recommends vaccinia vaccine for laboratory workers who directly handle a) cultures or b) animals contaminated or infected with nonhighly attenuated vaccinia virus, recombinant vaccinia viruses derived from nonhighly attenuated vaccinia strains, or other orthopoxviruses that infect humans (e.g., monkeypox, cowpox, vaccinia, and variola). Other health-care workers (e.g., physicians and nurses) whose contact with nonhighly attenuated vaccinia viruses is limited to contaminated materials (e.g., dressings) and who adhere to appropriate infection control measures are at lower risk for inadvertent infection than laboratory workers. However, because a theoretical risk for infection exists, vaccination can be offered to this group. Read more[PDF – 930KB](https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/pdf/rr/rr5010.pdf).

More Information for Clinicians

Full Prescribing Information for ACAM2000®[PDF – 11 pages]

ACAM2000® Medication Guide[PDF – 6 pages]

MMWR Notice to Readers: Newly Licensed Smallpox Vaccine to Replace Old Smallpox Vaccine(https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm5708a6.htm)

CDC’s Vaccine-Related Topics: Smallpox Vaccine

How to Request

Smallpox vaccine must be administered by or under the supervision of the physician who registers with CDC.

Ancillary supplies, such as bifurcated needles (for administration) and 1 mL tuberculin syringes with 25 gauge x 5/8″ needles (for reconstitution), are supplied with the vaccine.

Contact the CDC Drug Service for more information.

Requests for unapproved uses cannot be granted.

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Products No Longer Supplied by Drug Service*

Botulinum Toxoid

Pentavalent (ABCDE) botulinum toxoid is a combination of aluminum phosphate-adsorbed toxoid derived from formalin-inactivated types A, B, C, D, and E botulinum toxins, with formaldehyde and thimerosal used as preservatives. Botulinum toxoid was distributed by CDC under an IND protocol for at-risk persons who were actively working or expected to be working with cultures of Clostridium botulinum or the toxins; in 2011, CDC discontinued its program to supply this vaccine. Read more(https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm6042a3.htm).

Botulinum Antitoxin Types AB & E

In March 2010, CDC announced the availability of a new heptavalent botulinum antitoxin (HBAT, Cangene Corporation). HBAT replaced the licensed bivalent botulinum antitoxin AB and an investigational monovalent botulinum antitoxin E (BAT-AB and BAT-E, Sanofi Pasteur), becoming the only botulinum antitoxin available in the United States for naturally occurring non-infant botulism. Read more(https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm5910a4.htm).

Vaccinia Immune Globulin (VIG)

Vaccinia immune globulin (VIG) is released from the CDC Strategic National Stockpile, if indicated, for the treatment of complications associated with vaccinia vaccination. Clinicians wishing to obtain VIG should contact the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) at 770-488-7100. They will be connected with CDC medical staff who can assist them in the diagnosis and management of patients with suspected complications of vaccinia vaccination.

*this list is not all-inclusive

Use of trade names is for identification only and does not imply endorsement by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.


Compounds containing copper and other metal salts were tested in mice, which like humans are vulnerable to the toxin’s blockage of nerve signals to muscles. They penetrated to the site of the neurotoxin’s action, extending the lives of the mice that were given lethal doses.

San Diego Union Tribune

JACS

Metal Ions Effectively Ablate the Action of Botulinum Neurotoxin A

Paul T. Bremer, Sabine Pellett, James Patrick Carolan, William H. Tepp, Lisa M Eubanks, Karen N Allen, Eric A. Johnson,  and Kim D Janda
J. Am. Chem. Soc.,
DOI: 10.1021/jacs.7b01084
Publication Date (Web): May 5, 2017
Copyright © 2017 American Chemical Society

Abstract:  “Botulinum neurotoxin serotype A (BoNT/A) causes a debilitating and potentially fatal illness known as botulism. The toxin is also a known bioterror threat, yet no pharmacological antagonists to counteract its effects has reached clinical approval. Existing strategies to negate BoNT/A intoxication have looked to antibodies, peptides or organic small molecules as potential therapeutics. In this work, a departure from the traditional drug discovery mindset was pursued, in which the enzyme’s susceptibility to metal ions was exploited. A screen of a series of metal salts showed marked inhibitory activity of group 11 and 12 metals against the BoNT/A light chain (LC) protease. Enzyme kinetics revealed that copper (I) and (II) cations displayed noncompetitive inhibition of the LC (Ki ≈ 1 µM), while mercury (II) cations were 10-fold more potent. Crystallographic and mutagenesis studies elucidated a key binding interaction between Cys165 on BoNT/A LC and the inhibitory metals. As potential copper prodrugs, ligand-copper complexes were examined in a cell-based model and were found to prevent BoNT/A cleavage of the endogenous protein substrate, SNAP-25, even at low µM concentrations of complexes. Further investigation of the complexes suggested a bioreductive mechanism causing intracellular release of copper, which directly inhibited the BoNT/A protease. In vivo experiments demonstrated that dithiocarbamate and bis(thiosemicarbazone) copper (II) complexes could delay BoNT/A-mediated lethality in a rodent model, indicating their potential for treating the harmful effects of BoNT/A intoxication. Our studies illustrate that metals can be therapeutically viable enzyme inhibitors; moreover, enzymes that share homology with BoNT LCs may be similarly targeted with metals.”


Five cases of botulism caused by botulinum neurotoxin type E (BoNT E) have been diagnosed in November 2016 in two countries: 3 cases in males in Germany and 2 cases in partners (one male and one female) in Spain.

European Food Safety Association

“…..On 22 November 2016, Germany reported two laboratory-confirmed cases of foodborne botulism BoNT -type E in adult males from two neighbouring states with onset dates in early November to the Epidemic Intelligence Information System for Food- and Waterborne Diseases and Zoonoses (EPIS-FWD). Both patients had clinical symptoms compatible with botulism and their stool samples were confirmed positive for gene-encoding BoNT E in the German Consultant Laboratory for botulism. Both patients had eaten ‘dried and salted roach’ (Rutilus rutilus). On 28 November 2016, Germany posted an alert in the Early Warning and Response System (EWRS). On 7 December, Germany updated EWRS with information on an additional case, later confirmed, from a third German state with clinical symptoms of botulism and disease onset 24 November 2016. The patient had eaten dried and salted roach (Rutilus rutilus). Analyses of faecal samples were initiated in order to verify the botulism. The three German patients have a Russian background. On 19 December 2016, Germany reported a fourth confirmed case of foodborne botulism in a female with a Kazakh background through EWRS. She had consumed dried and salted roach and fell ill on 11 December 2016.  On 25 November 2016, Spain reported two probable cases of botulism in partners (one male and one female). The cases were Russian nationals with residence in Spain who consumed dried and salted fish ’Plötze Salz’ (Rutilus rutilus) and developed symptoms on 5 and 6 November 2016. The results of the clinical samples tested were negative…….”

 


The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health warns against consuming local deer- antler tea due to botulism risk.

LA Public Health

For Immediate Release:
April 28, 2017
For more information contact:
Public Health Communications
(213) 240-8144
media@ph.lacounty.gov

Public Health Warns Residents Not to Consume Local Deer – Antler Tea
LOS ANGELES – The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (Public Health) warns against consuming local deer- antler tea due to botulism risk. Public Health has recently identified one confirmed and one suspected case of botulism occurring in adults. Preliminary investigation suggests that these cases may be associated with the consumption of a deer-antler tea product (photos attached) that was acquired during the month of March. Pending further investigation, Public Health recommends that all persons who purchased product similar to this (i.e., deer-antler tea provided in a sealed pouch similar to the attached photographs) during the month of March, immediately dispose of it.Public Health will provide more information as it becomes available.

Botulism is a rare but serious illness caused by a nerve toxin that is produced by the bacterium Clostridium. Classic symptoms of botulism include double vision, blurred vision, drooping eyelids, slurred speech, difficulty swallowing and weakness. These are all symptoms of muscle paralysis caused by the bacterial toxin. If untreated, these symptoms may progress to cause paralysis of the respiratory muscles, arms, legs, and trunk. In foodborne botulism, symptoms generally begin 18 to 36 hours after eating a contaminated food, but they can occur as early as 6 hours or as late as 10 days. The respiratory failure and paralysis that occur with severe botulism may require a patient to be on a breathing machine (ventilator) for weeks or months, plus intensive medical and nursing care. The paralysis slowly improves.

People experiencing symptoms of botulism, who have recently drunk the tea, should seek immediate medical attention.

For more information on botulism visit: https://www.cdc.gov/botulism/index.html

Product pictures: https://t.co/e2TkWTWQpR

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health is committed to protecting and improving the health of over 10 million residents of Los Angeles County. Through a variety of programs, community partnerships and services, Public Health oversees environmental health, disease control, and community and family health. Nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health comprises nearly 4,000 employees and has an annual budget exceeding $900 million. To learn more about Los Angeles County Public Health, visit PublicHealth.LACounty.gov, and follow LA County Public Health on social media at twitter.com/LAPublicHealth, facebook.com/LAPublicHealth, and youtube.com/LAPublicHealth.

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Emergent Biosolutions gets Health Canada approval for Botulism antitoxin

Emergent

Emergent BioSolutions Inc.  today announced that Health Canada has approved the company’s New Drug Submission (NDS) for its botulism antitoxin, BAT® [Botulism Antitoxin Heptavalent (A, B, C, D, E, F, G) – (Equine)]. BAT is indicated for the treatment of symptomatic botulism following documented or suspected exposure to botulinum neurotoxin serotypes A, B, C, D, E, F, or G in adults and pediatric patients…….

Emergent has an existing ten-year contract, executed in 2012, to supply BAT to the Canadian Department of National Defense as well as the Public Health Agency of Canada and individual provincial health authorities. In addition, Emergent has been supplying BAT to the U.S. Strategic National Stockpile as part of a $450 million contract with the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA), within the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. BAT, which was licensed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 2013, is the only botulism antitoxin available in the U.S. for treating naturally occurring, non-infant botulism, and for administering to patients under emergency conditions…..”

fish


Mangia olive al botulino e finisce in coma, poi viene dimessa in anticipo dall’ospedale e muore per complicanze.

Il Messagero

Translation

 clostridium botulinum

 


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