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Passive Administration of Monoclonal Antibodies Against H. capsulatum and Others Fungal Pathogens
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Passive Administration of Monoclonal Antibodies Against H. capsulatum and Others Fungal Pathogens

Published on: February 14, 2011

Multistate fungal meningitis outbreak -- interim guidance for treatment

    MMWR. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report
    |October 19, 2012
    PubMed

    Insights

    Fungal meningitis outbreaks linked to contaminated steroid injections from New England Compounding Center (NECC) are under investigation by the CDC and FDA. Public health departments are involved in tracking these serious fungal infections.

    Area of Science:

    • Public Health
    • Infectious Diseases
    • Epidemiology

    Background:

    • A multistate outbreak of fungal infections, including meningitis, has been identified.
    • Cases are associated with patients receiving steroid injections, primarily into the spinal area.
    • The suspected source is a potentially contaminated steroid medication.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To investigate the cause and scope of the multistate fungal infection outbreak.
    • To identify the specific contaminated product and its source.
    • To coordinate public health response efforts.

    Main Methods:

    • Collaboration between the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
    • Close work with state and local public health departments.
    • Investigation into fungal infections linked to spinal and peripheral joint injections.

    Main Results:

    • Identification of a potentially contaminated steroid medication as the source.
    • The medication was prepared by New England Compounding Center (NECC).
    • The outbreak involves serious fungal infections, including meningitis.

    Conclusions:

    • The investigation highlights the risks associated with compounded medications.
    • Public health agencies are actively working to contain the outbreak.
    • Continued surveillance and response are crucial to prevent further infections.

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