A study in The Lancet Infectious Diseases by Stijn Raven, PhD, Marloes Heijne, PhD, Jeroen Koomen, PhD, and colleagues reports an outbreak of avian Chlamydia abortus causing severe respiratory illness. Three family members were hospitalized with pneumonia, one requiring intensive care. Wild bird exposure was identified as a probable source, with human-to-human transmission also considered. Retrospective analysis found ten similar historical cases, including one fatality. Findings highlight the need for surveillance of this emerging zoonotic threat.
Dr. Raven’s commitment to scientific excellence and public health underscores the invaluable contributions of researchers working at the intersection of microbiology, epidemiology, and disease prevention. His work is a reminder of how research can directly impact global health security.
