SPECTRE Regional Newsletter

This week's news!

Stay updated with the latest news, events, and resources on special pathogen preparedness and response in HHS Region VI. Our newsletter covers infection control standards, training events, public health initiatives, and outbreak updates.

Mozambique Reports its First MPOX Cases of the Year as Infections Rise in Parts of Africa

July 28, 2025 • 8:00 a.m.

Current Outbreaks Special Pathogens / HCID’s

Mpox outbreaks now affect 24 African countries, with new cases in Mozambique and rising infections in several regions, all amid severe vaccine supply challenges.

WHO Disease Outbreak News: Avian Influenza A (H5N1)- Cambodia

July 28, 2025 • 8:00 a.m.

Current Outbreaks Special Pathogens / HCID’s

Read more for details on response efforts and guidance, so far in 2025, Cambodia has confirmed 11 human cases of avian influenza A(H5N1) related to backyard poultry exposure, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring.

NETEC News & Blog "Home-Based Strategies for Managing High-Consequence Infectious Diseases"

July 28, 2025 • 8:00 a.m.

Regional Coordination & News Special Pathogens / HCID’s

Read more about how remote care strategies like home testing and monitoring are helping manage low-risk HCID patients while reducing hospital strain and exposure risks.

Upcoming Events

FEMA Webinar: Leveraging EMAC for Stronger Emergency Management

July 29, 2025 - 12pm-1pm

Learn how the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC) helps states, territories, and D.C. share resources during disasters and how it works with the National Response Coordination Center.

The Institute for Homeland Security at Sam Houston State University Presents: IHS 2025 Summer Research Symposium

July 30, 2025 - 8:30am-4:30pm 3380 College Park Drive, The Woodlands, TX 77384

The IHS 2025 Summer Research Symposium at SHSU The Woodlands, TX, offers a focused day of insight into Critical Infrastructure Protection, featuring advanced research and engagement with national security experts.

CDC Zoonoses and One Health Updates (ZOHU) Call Webinar Series

August 5-6, 2025

The CDC’s monthly ZOHU Calls provide timely updates on zoonotic diseases and One Health issues, offering strategies to tackle public health threats and enhance collaboration across sectors.

TEPHI Infection Prevention & Control Module 307: Sterilization

August 7, 2025 - 2pm-3pm

Learn about sterilization, its processes, and monitoring techniques to ensure safety in healthcare settings register now to enhance your knowledge and skills.

Achieving Data Quality and Integrity in Clinical Trials Involving High Consequence Pathogens Clinical Course FDA-UTMB Collaborative Education Program

August 13-14, 2025 - 8am-4:30pm

This two-day interactive course offers essential training on FDA Good Clinical Practice regulations, equipping you with practical skills to ensure compliance and data integrity in complex research settings.

Measles 101 Town Hall

Stay informed and protect your community! Watch this important town hall from the Houston Health Department on recent measles cases, symptoms, and prevention. Dr. Susan McLellan, MD, MPH, Director of SPECTRE at UTMB, joins as a presenter to share expert insights on measles preparedness and response.

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Expert Q&A

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Expert Q&A

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