The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has awarded a contract to the Cangene Corporation of Winnipeg, Canada in the amount of $362 million for 200,000 doses of Heptavalent Botulism Antitoxin. The contract runs for five years with product delivery to the Strategic National Stockpile scheduled to begin next year.
Botulinum toxin is one of the most poisonous substances known to science, said Dr. Gerald Parker, HHS acting assistant secretary for public health emergency preparedness. Todays Project BioShield contract award is part of our effort to protect the American public from biological threats.
The number of doses being purchased under the new contract is based on the Department of Homeland Securitys determination that botulinum toxins pose a threat to the U.S. population and the interagency Weapons of Mass Destruction Medical Countermeasures Subcommittees recommendation that heptavalent botulism antitoxin be acquired to improve the nations biodefense preparedness and response capabilities and protect civilians from a potentially lethal exposure to botulinum toxin.
The botulinum neurotoxin disrupts nerve functions which may result in muscle paralysis within hours. Respiratory muscle paralysis can result in death unless assisted (mechanical) ventilation is provided; therefore, the need for rapid diagnosis, access to intensive medical care, and antitoxin is vital. Botulism antitoxin blocks the action of circulating neurotoxin in the bloodstream.
HHS' Office of Public Health Emergency Preparedness, which oversees procurement efforts under the Project BioShield program through its Office of Research and Development Coordination, will manage the contract with Cangene.
Source: HHS
Â
Â
Undermining Public Health: Nearly 1300 Cut From CDC With More to Come
February 14th 2025The Trump administration’s decision to terminate nearly 1,300 CDC employees weakens America’s public health defenses, jeopardizes critical research, and endangers the nation’s preparedness for future health crises.
Infection Intel: GermZapp Is the Innovative Hand Hygiene System IPC Needs
February 14th 2025GermZAPP is an affordable hand hygiene system designed to educate, monitor, and encourage adherence in schools, nursing homes, and health care settings, effectively addressing gaps in infection control.
Strengthening Infection Prevention: APIC Urges Support From HHS Secretary Kennedy
February 13th 2025APIC congratulates Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr on his appointment and urges support for infection prevention priorities, including NHSN funding, workforce development, nursing home IPC improvements, medical device cleaning standards, and global health collaboration.
Universities and States Sue NIH Over Funding Cuts, Federal Judge Temporarily Halts Policy
February 13th 2025Twelve universities and 3 education groups filed a lawsuit against the NIH and HHS, challenging a 15% cap on research grant funding. A federal judge issued a temporary restraining order, halting the cuts while litigation proceeds. A hearing is set for February 21, 2025, and states and institutions are pushing for permanent relief.