Care and Monitoring for Exposure or Infection from Biodefense, Bioterrorism, and Emerging Infectious Disease Agents

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are focusing on the evaluation and management of illnesses related to bioterrorism and emerging infectious diseases, such as anthrax, SARS, MERS, Ebola, and SARS-CoV-2. These diseases, whether naturally occurring or deliberate, present challenges due to limited human infection data. The study aims to better understand the clinical course, immune response, diagnostic tests, and care processes for these infections to improve therapy and reduce illness and death. Participants include those with confirmed or suspected infections or exposures to bioterrorism or emerging infectious agents, as well as healthcare workers involved in care or simulation drills. Evaluations occur at the NIH Clinical Centers outpatient clinics or a specialized hospital ward designed to prevent infection spread. Initial screening gathers exposure history and medical condition, followed by samples and tests related to the infectious agent. Treatment may involve standard care or experimental measures depending on illness nature, with additional consent required for experimental treatments. Participants remain in the study for at least one year after active evaluation and treatment. They may attend periodic outpatient visits for medical assessments and blood tests and may keep a diary to record symptoms. The study tracks symptoms and signs over a year to understand disease impact better. This ongoing monitoring helps researchers learn about infection progression and immune responses while ensuring participant safety and data collection over time.

Admission and Management of Occupational or Other Exposures to Biodefense/Bioterrorism Agents or to Epidemic/Emerging Infectious Diseases