Heads Up, Laboratories! Dengue Virus, Novel Influenza, and More
Increased Risk of Dengue Virus Brings Lab Capacity Expansion
On June 25, 2024, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a Health Alert Network (HAN) message about an increased risk of dengue virus (DENV) infections in the United States in 2024. The CDC is actively implementing several strategies to address the increase in cases of dengue, including expanding laboratory capacity to improve laboratory testing approaches.
Information about clinical testing guidance for dengue and instructions for submitting specimens for dengue virus tests is available.
Report dengue cases to the CDC via ArboNET, the national arboviral surveillance system managed by the CDC and state health departments.
Updates of Novel Influenza Biosafety Guidelines
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated its webpage for the laboratory biosafety guidelines for handling and processing specimens associated with novel influenza A viruses to include additional information about risk assessment and mitigation, diagnostic testing, and decontamination and waste management.
The risk posed by novel influenza A viruses to the public remains low.
Online Novel Influenza A Resources
- Avian Flu | CDC
- Laboratory Biosafety Guidelines for Handling and Processing Specimens Associated with Novel Influenza A Viruses, Including Potential A(H5N1) Virus
- Interim Guidance on Testing and Specimen Collection for Patients with Suspected Infection with Novel Influenza A Viruses with the Potential to Cause Severe Disease in Humans
- Select Agents and Toxins Exemption: H5 Avian Influenza Virus | USDA
- Lab Advisory: CDC Issues Health Alert for Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza A(H5N1) Virus | LOCS Message
Enhanced Summer Influenza Strategy
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in collaboration with state, tribal, local, and territorial (STLT) public health agencies, has developed a multi-faceted enhanced summer influenza surveillance strategy that will be modified as new information becomes available or the situation changes to warrant a revised approach.
Online Summer Influenza Surveillance Resources
Recall: Potassium Chloride Extended-Release Capsules
American Health Packaging, on behalf of BluePoint Laboratories, is recalling 21 batches of Potassium Chloride Extended-Release Capsules USP (750 mg) 10 mEq because of failed dissolution. The capsules were distributed nationwide to wholesalers, distributors, and retail outlets.
The failure of the capsules to dissolve may cause high potassium levels, also known as hyperkalemia, which can result in irregular heartbeat that can lead to cardiac arrest. For patients who require chronic use of potassium chloride extended-release oral capsules, especially in those patients with underlying comorbidities or other conditions, there is a reasonable probability of developing hyperkalemia that may lead to a range of severity of adverse events.
- Patients should contact their physician or healthcare provider. Sedgwick, a recall solution vendor, can be reached at (855) 695-8564 for return instructions and further information.
- Wholesalers, distributors, and retailers should discontinue distribution of the recalled product lots immediately and follow the instructions provided in the written recall letter. Wholesalers and distributors should conduct a sub-recall to retail or pharmacy customers.
Here for You
ACHC is your partner in accreditation. For information on ACHC Sleep Accreditation, email customerservice@achc.org or call (855) 937-2242.
Get Accredited
Ready to get started? Contact us to begin your ACHC Accreditation process today.