As vaccination rates decline, healthcare providers are facing increased risks from airborne diseases they may not be prepared to manage. In this webinar, Dr. Aisha Terry explores practical strategies for identifying potential airborne pathogens, protecting patients and staff, and communicating effectively about vaccination.
In early 2024, a rare and deadly case of Lassa Fever emerged in Eastern Iowa, triggering a multi-state bio-emergency response across Iowa, Nebraska, and Illinois. This webinar provides a comprehensive overview of Lassa Fever’s pathophysiology and epidemiology, followed by a detailed timeline of the Iowa case—from initial presentation to the patient’s terminal outcome. Attendees will gain insight into the clinical course and challenges faced by healthcare providers in managing this high-consequence infectious disease.
The session also highlights the coordinated response among regional healthcare systems, including the critical role of the Level 1 Regional Emerging Special Pathogen Treatment Center (RESPTC) in Omaha, NE, and the integration of EMS transport. Public health efforts across three states and the CDC’s involvement in monitoring and managing over 170 exposed individuals—primarily healthcare workers—will be discussed. The webinar concludes with key lessons learned and a call to action for strengthening U.S. bio-emergency preparedness at all levels.
Learning Objectives:
By the end of this webinar, participants will be able to:
- Describe the pathophysiology and epidemiology of Lassa Fever, including its relevance to U.S. healthcare systems.
- Analyze the clinical progression and outcome of the 2024 Iowa Lassa Fever case.
- Evaluate the multi-agency response, including the roles of Level 1 and Level 2 treatment centers, EMS, and public health entities.
- Discuss the challenges and strategies involved in managing large-scale exposure events among healthcare workers.
- Identify key lessons learned and opportunities to enhance bio-emergency preparedness and response infrastructure.
