Changing Seasons, Changing Risks: The Dynamic Rhythms of Special Pathogens

This episode of Transmission Interrupted dives deep into the fascinating world of seasonal special pathogens, exploring the reasons why certain infectious diseases emerge and surge at specific times of year. Host Jill Morgan is joined by Dr. Susan McLellan and Dr. Lindsay Busch, two experts in infectious diseases and biocontainment, for a captivating discussion on Nipah virus and Lassa fever. From emergency rooms filled during flu season to the quirky, unexpected ways that bats and rodents drive outbreaks in far-off regions, our guests break down what makes these pathogens so unique. Learn how cultural practices, environmental changes, and climate can influence the risk of transmission, and why understanding "One Health" and anthropology is vital for outbreak control. Perfect for clinicians, public health enthusiasts, and anyone curious about how diseases move through populations, this episode offers practical insight into recognizing risk factors, travel histories, and how global disease surveillance impacts communities everywhere. Packed with real-world stories, unexpected facts, and expert advice for spotting and responding to these high-consequence infections, this episode is not to be missed. Subscribe to Transmission Interrupted for more episodes and resources: netec.org/podcast Questions or ideas for future shows? Email us at [email protected]. Guests Lindsay Busch, MD Assistant Professor, Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine Associate Medical Director, Emory University Serious Communicable Diseases Unit Critical Care Liaison, Emory Serious Communicable Diseases Program Susan McLellan MD, MPH Director, Special Pathogens Excellence in Clinical Treatment, Readiness, and Education (SPECTRE) University of Texas Medical Branch Host Jill Morgan, RN Emory Healthcare, Atlanta, GA Jill Morgan is a registered nurse and a subject matter expert in personal protective equipment (PPE) for NETEC. For 35 years, Jill has been an emergency department and critical care nurse, and now splits her time between education for NETEC and clinical research, most of it centering around infection prevention and personal protective equipment. She is a member of the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC), ASTM International, and the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI). Resources Lassa Fever resources at NETEC Nipah resources at NETEC Transmission Interrupted Podcast NETEC YouTube Sign up for NETEC's Email Newsletter About NETEC A Partnership for Preparedness The National Emerging Special Pathogens Training and Education Center’s mission is to set the gold standard for special pathogen preparedness and response across health systems in the U.S. with the goals of driving best practices, closing knowledge gaps, and developing innovative resources. Our vision is a sustainable infrastructure and culture of readiness for managing suspected and confirmed special pathogen incidents across the United States public health and health care delivery systems. For more information visit NETEC on the web at www.netec.org. NETEC Consultation Services Assess and Advance Your Readiness for Special Pathogens with Free, Expert Consulting. NETEC offers free virtual and onsite readiness consulting to help health care facilities and EMS agencies prepare for special pathogen events. Our targeted support services are delivered by experts selected and assigned to each inquiry based on the unique needs of your organization. Have a question? Ask a NETEC expert. For more information visit: netec.org/consulting-services.