NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF ALLERGY AND INFECTIOUS DISEASES

Doxycycline post-exposure prophylaxis (doxyPEP) significantly reduces chlamydia and syphilis in MSM and transgender women, with less impact on gonorrhea. Studies in San Francisco and Kaiser Permanente show real-world effectiveness, though questions about antibiotic resistance and gonorrhea efficacy remain.

A Louisiana individual over 65 with underlying health issues died from bird flu after contact with an ill backyard flock, marking the first U.S. human fatality. The CDC notes the public risk remains low, emphasizing genomic surveillance and prevention among those exposed to infected animals. No human-to-human transmission has been reported.

NIH researchers discovered a new class of antibodies targeting a unique part of the malaria parasite, Plasmodium falciparum, potentially leading to novel prevention methods. The antibody, MAD21-101, binds to a conserved epitope outside the central repeat region of the circumsporozoite protein, offering protection in mice and suggesting a new vaccine strategy without interfering with existing vaccines.

NIH study finds tecovirimat safe but ineffective in improving mpox resolution or pain among adults with mild to moderate clade II mpox. Study halted enrollment due to lack of efficacy.

A Louisiana resident, over 65 with preexisting conditions, died from H5N1 bird flu, marking the first U.S. fatality. The virus, capable of severe illness, has infected 66 in the U.S., mostly through exposure to infected animals. Experts stress vigilance and the need for updated risk assessments and vaccines.

NIH researchers discovered a new class of antibodies targeting an untapped region of the malaria parasite, offering potential for novel prevention methods. The most effective antibody, MAD21-101, protected against malaria in mice by binding to a conserved epitope on the sporozoite surface, not targeted by current vaccines, suggesting a new tool for combating malaria.

HPAI H5N1 poses low risk to the public, with treatments and vaccines deemed sufficient. NIH focuses on monitoring and evaluating the virus. Since 1996, it has spread globally, affecting birds, marine mammals, and recently U.S. dairy cows. Key strategies include collaboration, surveillance, medical countermeasures, and preventive measures to control the outbreak.

DoxyPEP implementation in San Francisco led to significant reductions in chlamydia and early syphilis among MSM and transgender women, with a 19.5% initiation rate. Despite less impact on gonorrhea, studies suggest doxyPEP's potential in combating STIs, amidst concerns over antimicrobial resistance and the need for further research.

NIH researchers discovered a new class of antibodies targeting a unique part of the malaria parasite, offering potential for novel prevention methods. The most effective antibody, MAD21-101, protected against malaria in mice, binding to a conserved epitope not targeted by current vaccines, suggesting a complementary approach to malaria prevention.