Building the Future of Biodefense

Recommendation: Employers can support employees in obtaining mpox vaccinations by providing flexible work schedules. Information on the availability of mpox vaccines and treatment can also be included in employee wellness communication.

Situation: Argentina detected its 1st case of mpox clade 1b in the City of Buenos Aires. The individual had no travel history, suggesting undetected community transmission. Sporadic clade 1b cases were detected in multiple countries across the Americas this year, including the US, Canada, Brazil, and Mexico, while local transmission was reported in European countries, in addition to large-scale outbreaks in Central and East Africa. [Confidence: Very High]

Recommendation: Organizations in Kent, England, should inform employees about the potential meningococcal disease exposure at Club Chemistry, and should provide flexible work schedules to support employees in making vaccine appointments or seeking preventative antibiotic treatment for themselves or family members.

Situation: England reported 2 new invasive meningococcal disease cases in the outbreak in Kent, totaling 15 cases, of which 4 were confirmed, and 2 deaths. Cases were detected among students across at least 4 schools in the area, including 1 student who had returned to France after attending the University of Kent, according to media sources. Health officials announced a potential exposure location at Club Chemistry on 3/5-7, calling on all attendees at the club during those times to seek preventative antibiotic treatment. Most cases were linked to Club Chemistry, which is temporarily closed. Meningitis B was detected in 4 cases. The MenB vaccine was introduced to the routine childhood immunization schedule in England in 2015, but those who are older than 10 would not have received it as part of routine vaccination. A targeted vaccination campaign for students who live in the University of Kent halls will be initiated soon. Media sources reported localized shortages in vaccines due to a large increase in demand. See PHC alert on 3/16 for earlier info. [Confidence: Very High]

Recommendation: Organizations with employees traveling to or working in Kent, England, should provide flexible work schedules to allow for vaccination of themselves or family members if not already vaccinated.

Situation: The UK Health Security Agency confirmed a cluster of invasive meningococcal disease among students in Kent, England. 13 individuals with meningitis and septicemia symptoms were reported from the Canterbury area from 3/13 to 3/15. 2 deaths occurred. The specific strain has not been identified yet. Media sources identified at least 1 case each among students from Queen Elizabeth's Grammar School and the University of Kent. Antibiotics were distributed to close contacts, and investigations are ongoing, with health officials urging students and staff at affected schools to be alert to the early signs and symptoms of meningococcal meningitis and septicemia. [Confidence: Very High]