Veterinarians in Washington, D.C. are being alerted to monitor for unusual illnesses in their non-human patients due to concerns over potential zoonotic bioterror threats during the presidential inauguration. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has requested enhanced surveillance from local veterinarians.
The alert comes as a precautionary measure amid heightened security at the National Mall area on January 19-21. Veterinarians are asked to report any animals showing severe or unusual illnesses within 14 days of exposure to the area, whether they traveled there or live there.
According to Dr. Julia Murphy, State Public Health Veterinarian, this is not the first time the health department has requested enhanced surveillance from veterinarians before a large public event. The “One Health” approach recognizes the connection between animals, humans, and shared environments in preventing outbreaks and bioterror events.
Zoonotic diseases, which can transmit between animals and humans, pose a significant threat. Animal illnesses can act as sentinels, detecting early signs of disease and providing valuable information on outbreak scope and severity. For example, Francisella tularensis, the bacterium causing tularemia, is particularly dangerous for rabbits and rodents, with an incubation period shorter than in humans.
The alert serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance in monitoring animal health during times of high security and potential bioterror threats.
Source: https://arstechnica.com/health/2025/01/dc-area-veterinarians-on-heightened-alert-amid-potential-inauguration-risks