MMWR

Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report

1.Progress Toward Interruption of Wild Poliovirus Transmission—Worldwide, 2009

CDC
Division of News and Electronic Media
(404) 639-3286

This article provides an annual update on the global status of polio eradication efforts. During 2009, a total of 1,606 cases of wild poliovirus (WPV) were reported worldwide, a number within the range of cases reported annually since 2005 (1,315 to 1,997 cases). Of these, 1,256 (78 percent) were from the four polio-endemic countries (Afghanistan, India, Nigeria and Pakistan), 207(13 percent) were from 15 previously polio-free countries after WPV importation, and 143 (9 percent) were from four countries (Angola, Chad, Democratic Republic of Congo and Sudan) with WPV transmission reestablished for >12 months after virus importation. Wild poliovirus type 1 (WPV1) cases decreased from 976 in 2008 to 482 in 2009, whereas wild poliovirus type 3 (WPV3) cases increased from 675 in 2008 to 1,124 in 2009. In response to continued WPV1 and WPV3 transmission in all endemic countries and reestablished transmission in some previously polio-free countries, a new Global Polio Eradication Initiative strategic plan for 2010–2012 has been developed and is being implemented, incorporating lessons learned and introducing specific new strategies, milestones for monitoring progress, enhanced oversight and defined mechanisms for taking corrective actions, with the objective of interrupting poliovirus transmission by the end of 2012. Globally, careful monitoring of indicators during 2010–2012 and implementing corrective actions will be essential for polio eradication efforts to succeed.

2. Acute Antimicrobial Pesticide-Related Illnesses Among Workers in Health-Care Facilities — California, Louisiana, Michigan, and Texas, 2002–2007

CDC
Division of News and Electronic Media
(404) 639-3286

During 2002-2007, 401 acute illnesses from antimicrobial pesticide exposures among workers in healthcare facilities were identified in four states.   Illnesses were most commonly reported by janitors/housekeepers, nursing/medical assistants, and technicians. Ocular symptoms were the most common and splashes/spills were the major mechanism of injury while eye protection was rarely used. Reported symptoms were mostly mild and temporary. Use of antimicrobial pesticides is an important component of infection control practices in healthcare facilities. However, occupational exposures to these pesticides can cause adverse health effects. Hazardous exposure to antimicrobial pesticides and subsequent illnesses can be further minimized through safe handling of antimicrobial pesticides and the use of personal protective equipment as instructed by the product label.  Workers should be: informed about the health hazards of antimicrobials used in their facilities; provided training on the safe handling of antimicrobial pesticides in accordance with label instructions; and, furnished with appropriate PPE that it is conveniently located.  In addition, effective communication is encouraged to prevent bystander exposure, such as posting signs where antimicrobial pesticides are used.

3. Two Multistate Outbreaks of Shiga Toxin–Producing Escherichia coli Infections Linked to Ground Beef from a Slaughterhouse — United States, 2008

CDC National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention
News Media Line
(404) 639-8895

During Summer 2008, state and local health and agriculture departments, the U.S. Department of Agriculture Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS), and CDC investigated two multistate outbreaks of Shiga toxin–producing Escherichia coli O157 (STEC O157) which caused illness in nearly 100 persons in multiple US states.  The investigation implicated ground beef purchased from several retail grocery chains, and ultimately a single slaughter facility, resulting in multiple nationwide recalls of ground beef, intact beef, and beef products used to produce ground beef. Continued advances in the ability to detect and identify STEC O157 outbreaks and their sources of contamination have provided opportunities to improve food safety. Nonetheless, consumers must take proper measures when handling and consuming ground beef.

 

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U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES