We’re proud to share a recent article, “Nipah virus: a summary for clinicians,” published in the International Journal of Emergency Medicine by Dr. Susan McLellan and Dr. Corri Levine, in collaboration with Lauren M. Sauer, Jared D. Evans, and members of NETEC's Special Pathogens Research Network State of the Clinical Science Working Group. This timely review offers clinicians a clear, practical resource on the pathogenesis, clinical features, and potential countermeasures for Nipah virus, a WHO-designated pathogen of pandemic concern. As part of our mission at SPECTRE and UTMB, we remain committed to advancing clinical readiness and supporting frontline professionals in responding to high-consequence infectious threats.
Welcome to SPECTRE!
We are SPECTRE—the Special Pathogens Excellence in Clinical Treatment, Readiness, and Education Program—housed within the Division of Infectious Diseases at UTMB. Our mission is to strengthen local and regional readiness to respond to high-consequence infectious diseases, ensuring self-sufficiency and operational resilience.
SPECTRE supports the ongoing preparedness of UTMB’s Biocontainment Care Unit (BCU) by developing targeted training and education initiatives grounded in practical, frontline care. We focus on equipping healthcare professionals, across all of Region 6, with the skills, tools, and confidence needed to act swiftly and safely during special pathogen events.
We also foster collaboration with regional healthcare partners and public health entities, promoting a unified, state-driven response framework that ensures coordination without unnecessary duplication of federal efforts. In addition, we contribute to the infrastructure needed for clinically grounded research, ensuring that emerging knowledge translates directly into improved patient care and safety protocols.
Susan McLellan, MD, MPH
Director, SPECTRE
Medical Director, Biocontainment Care Unit
Medical Director, Biocontainment Care Unit
Email: sumclell@utmb.edu
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Who is SPECTRE
SPECTRE strengthens healthcare preparedness through training, education, research, and regional coordination. By equipping healthcare professionals with specialized skills, advancing infectious disease research, and leading regional preparedness efforts, SPECTRE enhances the ability to manage high-consequence infectious diseases. This video highlights SPECTRE’s mission and its role in providing healthcare professionals with the knowledge and resources needed to respond effectively. Through evidence-based education, research, and strategic partnerships, SPECTRE helps build stronger response capabilities at institutional, regional, and national levels.
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