Norovirus—often called the perfect pathogen—is one of the leading causes of acute gastroenteritis outbreaks worldwide. Responsible for widespread illness across all age groups, it remains a major cause of childhood and endemic infections. Originally described as winter vomiting disease due to its seasonal surges, norovirus is infamous for its rapid spread, low infectious dose, and resistance to disinfection. In this episode of Transmissible: A Public Health Podcast, host and scientist Jessica Stahl breaks down what makes norovirus so uniquely contagious, how it wreaks havoc on cruise ships, in schools, and in prisons, and why it continues to be a persistent public health challenge.Citations and additional reading:Norovirus | Norovirus | CDCNorovirus (vomiting bug) - NHShttps://academic.oup.com/jid/article-abstract/205/11/1622/844989?redirectedFrom=fulltext Norovirus Disease in the United States - PMCEID_9-13_NorovirusInTheUnitedStates.pdfNorovirus: Facts and Reflections from Past, Present, and Future - PMC
Legal Disclaimer: The information provided in Transmissible: A Public Health Podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. While host Jessica Stahl is a scientist with public health expertise, she is not a medical doctor, and the content of this podcast should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions regarding a medical condition.
Furthermore, the views and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the positions, policies, or opinions of any employer, past or present. The podcast is an independent production and is not affiliated with or endorsed by any organization.
In 2023, measles claimed an estimated 107,000 lives, yet vaccination has prevented a staggering 60 million deaths since 2000. Despite this, measles remains a pressing issue in many developing countries, particularly in parts of Africa and Asia. On this episode of Transmissible: A Public Health Podcast, we dive deep into the science behind this highly contagious disease. From its pathogenesis and epidemiology to the life-saving MMR vaccine and the fascinating history of measles—including its 10th-century description as being "more dreaded than smallpox"—host Jessica unpacks it all.
Drawing on her career as a contractor with CDC, her experience with rare pathogens, and her passion for public health, Jessica sheds light on why measles remains a global challenge. Whether you're a public health enthusiast or just curious about infectious diseases, this episode promises to be both informative and engaging. Tune in to learn something new about a virus that's been plaguing humanity for 5,000 years.
Citations:
https://www.cdc.gov/pinkbook/hcp/table-of-contents/chapter-13-measles.html (vaccine safety info)
https://archive.cdc.gov/www_cdc_gov/csels/dsepd/ss1978/lesson3/section2.html
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1045187001000589
https://www.fda.gov/vaccines-blood-biologics/vaccines/measles-mumps-and-rubella-virus-vaccine-live
https://www.fda.gov/vaccines-blood-biologics/priorix
https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vpd/mmr/hcp/about.html#vaccine-safety
https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/article-abstract/308400#google_vignette
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0755498222000422
https://scielo.org.za/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S0256-95742010000400013
https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1358&context=thebridge Measles, Mumps, Rubella Vaccination and Autism: A Nationwide Cohort Study: Annals of Internal Medicine: Vol 170, No 8 A Population-Based Study of Measles, Mumps, and Rubella Vaccination and Autism | New England Journal of Medicine Measles cases surge worldwide, infecting 10.3 million people in 2023
Legal: The information provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical, legal, or professional advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider, public health expert, or relevant professional for guidance specific to your individual circumstances.
The views expressed in this podcast are those of the host and do not necessarily reflect the opinions, policies, or positions of any current or former employers, educational institutions, or affiliations. While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information presented, the host and podcast assume no responsibility for errors, omissions, or any consequences arising from the use of this information.
In this mini episode of Transmissible: A Public Health Podcast, host Jessica Stahl dives into the latest updates on the H5 bird flu (avian influenza) situation as of December 9, 2024. With her promise to keep listeners informed on global health issues, Jessica breaks down the current status of bird flu in North America, focusing on its impact on wild birds, poultry, and dairy cattle.
Jessica reviews key data from CDC and USDA, including new federal orders for national milk testing and the broader implications for public health. She explains the science behind H5's transmission potential and its low current risk to humans while highlighting the extensive surveillance and testing efforts underway. Jessica also discusses the historical context of the 1997 H5N1 outbreak in Hong Kong.
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Legal Disclaimer: This episode does not constitute medical advice and reflects Jessica's personal opinions, not those of any current or former employers or institutions.
Citation: Bird Flu | Bird Flu | CDC HPAI Detections in Wild Birds H5 Bird Flu: Current Situation | Bird Flu | CDC Scripps Research scientists identify mutation that could facilitate H5N1 “bird flu” virus infection and potential transmission in humans | Scripps Research H5N1-QAs.pdf
In this mini-episode of Transmissible, Jessica provides an urgent global health update on a mysterious illness emerging in a remote region of the Democratic Republic of Congo. With symptoms like fever, cough, and anemia, and a widely varying death toll, health officials are racing to identify the cause of this outbreak. Jessica explains the challenges of disease surveillance in such remote areas, the impact of malnutrition on affected communities, and the global response, including updates from WHO and CDC. Stay tuned for more updates as this story unfolds, and don’t miss next week’s deep dive into measles!
Citations: WHO supports Democratic Republic of the Congo reinforce efforts to diagnose disease in remote area | WHO | Regional Office for Africa https://acp.cd/sante/kwango-67-deces-dus-a-une-epidemie-dorigine-inconnue-enregistres-a-panzi/
Legal Disclaimer:
The content provided in this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information presented, this podcast should not be used as a substitute for professional medical consultation, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.
The host and contributors are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided in this podcast. Reliance on any information shared is solely at your own risk.
This podcast may discuss historical events, medical research, and treatment options; however, these discussions are not endorsements of any particular therapy, medication, or approach. Additionally, the content may not reflect the most up-to-date research or medical guidelines at the time of listening.
The host, contributors, and associated parties are not liable for any adverse outcomes, complications, or damages resulting from the use or misuse of the information provided. Please consult a licensed healthcare provider for advice tailored to your specific situation.
By listening to this podcast, you agree to these terms.
Correction! Frances Oldham Kelsey was a woman. I accidentally assumed she was a man based on “Frances”.
This week on Transmissible: A Public Health Podcast, Jessica shares a deeply personal and scientific exploration of morning sickness AKA nausea and vomiting during pregnancy—a condition she's navigating firsthand while managing type 1 diabetes. Drawing on her professional experience as a scientist and her academic background, she unpacks the science, epidemiology and ancient history of this challenging aspect of pregnancy. She also explores the data on available treatment options and recounts the harrowing story of one of modern history's most devastating medical disasters—centered around a morning sickness drug from the 1950s.
Questions or comments? Send an email to transmissiblepodcast@gmail.comCitations:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21507989/
https://www.acs.org/molecule-of-the-week/archive/t/thalidomide.html
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/8458855.stm
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-023-06921-9
https://www.thalidomide.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/article-miller-stromland-teratogen-update.pdf
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7357866/
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3676933/
https://books.google.com/books/about/Soranus_Gynecology.html?id=YsKWfh31gxwC
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10625999/
https://www.ajog.org/article/S0002-9378(00)70349-8/abstract
https://youtu.be/M1G6cdgonlE?si=kcTiGFO1UlBkOnHZ
Legal disclaimer: The content provided in this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information presented, this podcast should not be used as a substitute for professional medical consultation, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.
The host and contributors are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided in this podcast. Reliance on any information shared is solely at your own risk.
This podcast may discuss historical events, medical research, and treatment options; however, these discussions are not endorsements of any particular therapy, medication, or approach. Additionally, the content may not reflect the most up-to-date research or medical guidelines at the time of listening.
The host, contributors, and associated parties are not liable for any adverse outcomes, complications, or damages resulting from the use or misuse of the information provided. Please consult a licensed healthcare provider for advice tailored to your specific situation.
By listening to this podcast, you agree to these terms.
In this episode of Transmissible, we dive into the public health challenges posed by hurricanes, cyclones, and typhoons. These powerful storms go beyond their immediate destruction, sparking a cascade of health crises in their aftermath. From waterborne diseases and injury risks to disruptions in healthcare services and long-term mental health impacts, the effects of these natural disasters are far-reaching and often underestimated. Join us as we explore the science behind these storms, their impact on communities, and the strategies needed to build resilient public health systems in the face ofthese violent storm systems.
Citations: National Hurricane Center (noaa.gov) Hurricanes | National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (noaa.gov) Hurricanes: Science and Society: 1970- The Great Bhola Cyclone (hurricanescience.org) National Environmental Satellite, Data, and Information Service (noaa.gov) (I can't find my environmental disaster textbook online anymore-sad!)
Legal: The content of this episode of Transmissible is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical, legal, or professional advice. The views and opinions expressed by the guests and host are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of any affiliated organizations. Always seek the guidance of qualified professionals regarding health-related decisions or legal matters. In case of an emergency or if you need medical assistance, please contact a healthcare provider or your local emergency services immediately.
In this episode of Transmissible: A Public Health Podcast, we dive into the intersection of public health and professional sports. With the NFL's 2024 kickoff rule changes aimed at reducing head injuries, we explore the latest data on CTE (Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy) and its impact on athletes. Join us as we break down what these rule changes mean from a public health perspective, examining whether they truly address the growing concerns around concussions and long-term brain injuries in football.
Citation:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30482357/
https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaneurology/fullarticle/2808952
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37340004/
https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0268583
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4554955/
https://news.gallup.com/poll/189206/former-student-athletes-winners.aspx
Legal: The information provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for medical advice and treatment. The views expressed in this episode are those of the host and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any affiliated organizations or institutions.
In this episode of Transmissible, we explore the lasting impact of the September 11th, 2001, terrorist attacks, focusing on the thousands still affected by 9/11-related illnesses. With deaths from these illnesses now believed to have surpassed those from the initial attacks, we dive into the ongoing challenges faced by survivors and first responders. Join us as we discuss the efforts of public health professionals to provide care and support to those who continue to suffer from the long-term health consequences of that tragic day.
Citation:
https://www.nyc.gov/site/911health/researchers/what-we-know.page
https://www.911memorial.org/911-faqs
https://www.cdc.gov/wtc/pdfs/research/Development_of_the_Inventory_of_9-11_Agents_20180717.pdf
Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) is a rare but severe viral infection that causes inflammation of the brain, often leading to death or long-term neurological issues. Transmitted by mosquitoes, EEE has a fatality rate of around 30% among those who develop symptoms. While the disease predominantly affects horses, humans can also be infected, though they are considered "dead-end" hosts, meaning they don't transmit the virus further. Recent news highlights concerns in Plymouth, Massachusetts, where new measures have been implemented after mosquitoes tested positive for EEE, marking the first human case in the state since 2020. In this episode, Jessica, dives into the virus's biology, transmission, symptoms, and the recent outbreak's context.
Citations:
https://www.cdc.gov/eastern-equine-encephalitis/php/transmission/index.html
https://cwhl.vet.cornell.edu/disease/eastern-equine-encephalitis
https://www.cdc.gov/eastern-equine-encephalitis/data-maps/index.html
https://www.cdc.gov/eastern-equine-encephalitis/data-maps/current-year-data.html
Legal: The information provided in this episode of Transmissible is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or legal advice. While we strive for accuracy, the content discussed should not be used as a substitute for professional guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any medical concerns or questions. The views expressed in this podcast are those of the host and guests and do not represent the opinions of any affiliated institutions or organizations
Welcome to this mini episode of Transmissible. Jessica Stahl, MPH, covers the latest updates on the unfolding mpox outbreak. CDC has issued a Health Alert Network (HAN) Health Update about the monkeypox virus (MPXV) outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared mpox a public health emergency of international concern. Tune in to learn more about what this means and its potential impact.
Citations: Mpox – Africa CDC WHO declares mpox virus a public health emergency of international concern | UN News Health Alert Network (HAN) - 00513 | Mpox Caused by Human-to-Human Transmission of Monkeypox Virus in the Democratic Republic of the Congo with Spread to Neighboring Countries (cdc.gov)
Legal: The information provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for medical advice and treatment. The views expressed in this episode are those of the host and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any affiliated organizations or institutions.
In this episode, Jessica Stahl, MPH explores the groundbreaking work of Edward Jenner, the physician who developed the first successful smallpox vaccine. Learn about Jenner's observations, his experiments with cowpox, and how his discoveries changed public health forever. Despite facing skepticism, Jenner's work laid the foundation for modern immunology and continues to save lives today. Citations: History of smallpox vaccination (who.int)About Edward Jenner — The Jenner InstituteEdward Jenner and the history of smallpox and vaccination - PMC (nih.gov)The Milkmaid Who Supposedly Inspired The Smallpox Vaccine Was A Myth : Goats and Soda : NPRHistory of Smallpox | Smallpox | CDCThe origins of vaccination: myths and reality - Arthur Boylston, 2013 (sagepub.com)
Legal: The content of this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any employer or affiliated organization. Listeners are encouraged to consult a qualified healthcare professional for any medical concerns or questions.
☀️💦🦠In this episode, Jessica (who is also a toddler mom) dives into the pathogen hazards of splash pads when the water is not treated properly. She discusses the dangers posed by Naegleria fowleri, a brain-eating amoeba, and Cryptosporidium, a parasite causing severe gastrointestinal illness. Learn about the risks, symptoms, and essential safety measures to protect your family while enjoying splash pads this summer. Citation: What You Can Do to Stay Healthy at Splash Pads | Healthy Swimming | CDC About Cryptosporidiosis | Cryptosporidium ("Crypto") | CDC
Legal: The information provided in this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a qualified professional regarding health and safety concerns. The podcast and its creators are not liable for any actions taken based on the content discussed.
🐄🦠In this episode, Jessica provides the latest updates on H5N1 bird flu, discussing recent developments, and the third case of cow-to-human transmission. She also discusses what the "H" and "N" mean in H5N1. Come hangout!
Citations: H5N1 Bird Flu: Current Situation Summary | Avian Influenza (Flu) (cdc.gov) Influenza Type A Viruses | Avian Influenza (Flu) (cdc.gov) How CDC is monitoring influenza data to better understand the current avian influenza A (H5N1) situation in people | Avian Influenza (Flu) Influenza Type A Viruses | Avian Influenza (Flu) (cdc.gov)
In this episode, we review CDC's May 24, 2024, MMWR (Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report) on the outbreak of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza A(H5N1) viruses in U.S. dairy cattle and the detection of two human cases in 2024. We'll explore the implications for public health and the measures taken to control the outbreak. Outbreak of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza A(H5N1) Viruses in U.S. Dairy Cattle and Detection of Two Human Cases — United States, 2024 | MMWR (cdc.gov)
For this episode of Transmissible: A Public Health Podcast, discuss the biology of Lyme disease, the vector responsible for transmission, and the bacteria that cause it. We'll break down the symptoms in humans, the latest treatments available, and the testing methods used for diagnosis.
Our journey doesn't stop there; we'll take a look back at the history of Lyme disease and bring you up to speed with the modern epidemiology and current groundbreaking research. Whether you're a medical professional, a researcher, or someone affected by Lyme disease, this episode is for you. Tune in to stay informed and understand the intricate world of Lyme disease. Also, try listening on 1.25x speed if it feels too slow for you :)
Citations: Guidelines for Lyme Disease Are Updated - The American Journal of Medicine (amjmed.com) Clinical Care of Lyme Disease | Lyme Disease | CDC Study Shows Evidence of Severe and Lingering Symptoms in Some after Treatment for Lyme Disease | Johns Hopkins Medicine History of Lyme Disease - Bay Area Lyme Foundation Lyme Disease: A Tick-Associated Disease Originally Described in Europe, but Named After a Town in Connecticut | American Entomologist | Oxford Academic (oup.com) How Lyme Disease Spreads | Lyme Disease | CDC
Legal disclaimer: This podcast provides general information and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider regarding any medical condition. Reliance on any information provided by this podcast is solely at your own risk. This podcast does not reflect the views of former or current employers.
In this episode we cover the fascinating history of Nathan Straus, the co-founder of Macy's department store, and how he saved thousands of lives through his milk pasteurization philanthropy.
Citations: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0362028X22087610 (graph!)
https://postcardhistory.net/2021/12/the-crusade-for-pure-milk/
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0362028X22087610#bb0120
https://www.americanheritage.com/saint-straus
https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-new-york-times-straus-tells-of-pure/9755277/
https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/article-abstract/429124
https://www.nyhistory.org/blogs/milk-life-death-and-womens-work
Legal:
This podcast provides general information and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider regarding any medical condition. Reliance on any information provided by this podcast is solely at your own risk. This podcast does not reflect the views of former or current employers.
This week Jessica dives into the fascinating and emerging world of Alaskapox virus, now renamed Borealpox virus. She discusses the name change and what we currently know about this "new" virus.
Citations:
https://health.alaska.gov/dph/Epi/id/Pages/Borealpox.aspx
https://www.adfg.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=northernredbackedvole.main (cute vole alert!)
https://alaskapublic.org/2024/04/01/alaskapox-no-more-newly-discovered-disease-and-virus-is-to-be-called-borealpox/
Legal:
This podcast provides general information and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider regarding any medical condition. Reliance on any information provided by this podcast is solely at your own risk. This podcast does not reflect the views of former or current employers.
🍋⚓️💀This week Jessica is covering the fascinating and odd history and science of scurvy! She also says "um" too much due to being sick :( enjoy!
Disclamer: This podcast provides general information and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider regarding any medical condition. Reliance on any information provided by this podcast is solely at your own risk.
Citations:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29539504/
https://www.seanet.com/~alexs/ascorbate/196x/stone-i-acta_genet_med_et_gemell-1966-v15-p345.htm
https://books.google.com/books?id=2Dzl-cIIjxYC
https://en.wikisource.org/wiki/1911_Encyclop%C3%A6dia_Britannica/Scurvy
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3232233/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10729832