On this episode of Transmission Interrupted, host Jill Morgan is joined by Dr. Steven Bradfute from the University of New Mexico and Dr. Gabby Frank from Johns Hopkins University to shine a light on hantavirus—a pathogen that often lurks on the edges of our collective radar. From mice in cacti to Four Corners outbreaks and the mystery of why some exposures become critical illnesses while others go unnoticed, our guests unpack the science, history, and uncertainties surrounding hantavirus. You’ll learn how these viruses are spread, why symptoms can escalate so quickly, and what clinicians should be on the lookout for (hint: it’s all about a great medical history!). Dr. Gabby Frank and Dr. Steven Bradfute also share practical advice for healthcare providers and anyone with a garage or cabin to clean out, explain why “suiting up” with PPE matters, and explore why preventing exposure is still our best defense—since, unfortunately, there’s no cure yet. If you’ve ever wondered about rodent-borne diseases, what really happened in Patagonia, or the science behind cleaning up mouse droppings, tune in for an eye-opening discussion packed with real-life clinical pearls, expert insights, and a few unexpected laughs.

Guests

Steven Bradfute, Ph.D.

Associate Professor Department of Internal Medicine Center for Global Health University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center

Gaby Frank, MD, FACP, SFHM

Professor of Medicine, PAR, Johns Hopkins University Director, Johns Hopkins Special Pathogens Center

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

1. UNM Researchers Find Live Hantavirus is Carried in More Than 30 New Mexico Small Mammal Species
2. NETEC Viral Hemorrhagic Fever Resources
3. Transmission Interrupted Podcast
4. NETEC YouTube
5. 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.