Biosafety Practices When Working with Bats: A Guide to Field Research Considerations.

Introduction: Field work with bats is an important contribution to many areas of research in environmental biology and ecology, as well as microbiology. Work with bats poses hazards such as bites and scratches, and the potential for exposure to infectious pathogens such as rabies virus. It also exposes researchers to many other potential hazards inherent to field work, such as environmental conditions, delayed emergency responses, or challenging work conditions. Methods: This article discusses the considerations for a thorough risk assessment process around field work with bats, pre- and post-occupational health considerations, and delves into specific considerations for areas related to biosafety concerns-training, personal protective equipment, safety consideration in field methods, decontamination, and waste. It also touches on related legal and ethical issues that sit outside the realm of biosafety, but which must be addressed during the planning process. Discussion: Although the focal point of this article is bat field work located in northern and central America, the principles and practices discussed here are applicable to bat work elsewhere, as well as to field work with other animal species, and should promote careful considerations of how to safely conduct field work to protect both researchers and animals.

Epidemiologic Investigation of Two Welder's Anthrax Cases Caused by Bacillus Cereus Group Bacteria: Occupational Link Established by Environmental Detection.

Abstract Bacillus cereus group bacteria containing the anthrax toxin genes can cause fatal anthrax pneumonia in welders. Two welder's anthrax cases identified in 2020 were investigated to determine the source of each patient's exposure. Environmental sampling was performed at locations where each patient had recent exposure to soil and dust. Samples were tested for the anthrax toxin genes by real-time PCR, and culture was performed on positive samples to identify whether any environmental isolates matched the patient's clinical isolate. A total of 185 environmental samples were collected in investigation A for patient A and 108 samples in investigation B for patient B. All samples from investigation B were real-time PCR-negative, but 14 (8%) samples from investigation A were positive, including 10 from patient A's worksite and 4 from his work-related clothing and gear. An isolate genetically matching the one recovered from patient A was successfully cultured from a worksite soil sample. All welder's anthrax cases should be investigated to determine the source of exposure, which may be linked to their worksite. Welding and metalworking employers should consider conducting a workplace hazard assessment and implementing controls to reduce the risk of occupationally associated illnesses including welder's anthrax.

Epidemiology of animal rabies and its practical application to pre- and postexposure prophylaxis, louisiana, 1988 to 2007.

The incidence of human rabies in the United States has decreased significantly over the past century. This analysis examines the ecological status of rabies in Louisiana with the intent of identifying differences in risk of rabies transmission from exposures to different species of animals. Louisiana presently harbors one terrestrial variant of rabies, a skunk variant, and several bat variants. Surveillance data collected from 1988 through 2007 were examined, comparing areas of the state characterized by circulating terrestrial variants and areas free of terrestrial rabies. Nine state public health regions were also compared. The proportions of rabies-positive laboratory submissions from each species and/or species group were used as indicators of risk. In addition, differences in proportions positive were examined temporally. A significant proportion of positive bats (9.64%) and skunks (44.3%), examined after biting or otherwise exposing a human being, were identified by diagnostic laboratories. Samples from wild terrestrial animals originating in areas known to harbor circulating terrestrial rabies variants were more than 30 times more likely to be positive for rabies than samples originating from areas thought to be free of terrestrial rabies. Bats were also slightly more likely to be positive when submitted from areas known to be endemic for terrestrial rabies. Rabies in pets and agricultural animals were rarely reported. Seasonal variations in prevalence of positive tests were also identified. The results of this examination of rabies epidemiology in Louisiana can be used in determining recommendations for both pre- and postexposure rabies prophylaxis. Similar applications of surveillance data are encouraged in other jurisdictions.

The epidemiology of animal bite, scratch, and other potential rabies exposures, Louisiana.

The authors conducted a review of 318 investigative reports of animal exposures recorded from November 2004 through April 2008. These reports were gathered as components of the rabies surveillance program in Louisiana. The reports were recorded by employees of the Louisiana Office of Public Health. Results were summarized and analyzed using the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) EpiInfo statistical software. The most common victims were children, most often exposed to a pet that was familiar. In children victimized by pets, males were much more likely to be involved. Children most often suffered injuries to the head and upper torso. Exposures to bats and skunks characterized the greatest risks for rabies transmission, but potential for exposure to rabies from pet species remained a reality. Pit bull type dogs were most frequently involved in dog bite exposures. Requests for animal rabies testing peak in the summer months. The increased risk to children demonstrates a need for public education, animal control programs, and evaluation of risk from certain breeds. Promotion of rabies vaccine compliance is of utmost importance to public health.