Tip Sheet

The global repercussions of failing to stop the measles outbreak now

Taylor Thomas — Wed, 16 Apr 2025 13:18:21 +0000

The global repercussions of failing to stop the measles outbreak now Taylor Thomas Wed, 04/16/2025 - 09:18

As of April 15, 2025, measles continues to spread across the nation and does not appear to be slowing down, according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) data. In addition to outbreaks in the U.S., international public health organizations are reporting rises in cases across the globe. The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has confirmed cases in Argentina, Canada, and Mexico. The highly contagious nature of the virus coupled with outbreaks in multiple countries raises concerns about measles spreading globally and becoming more difficult to contain.

In an updated interview, George Mason �鶹�� epidemiologist and infectious disease expert Amira Roess answers questions about the evolving measles situation. She outlines how the United States is at risk of losing its status as a country that had eliminated the measles virus. Read the interview with Roess, Measles elimination versus eradication: the difference and why it matters. Roess shares concerns about the strain outbreaks could have on global public health systems and warns of the danger of the virus mutating [developing in a manner that results in changes from the original strain].

What is unique about the current measles outbreak?

This outbreak emerged in a somewhat rural part of the U.S. and then quickly spread to neighboring states, then Mexico and to other countries. This is happening just as the U.S. is reshaping how we approach prevention, detection, and response to new and emerging diseases, and scaling back our infectious disease research and surveillance infrastructure. In addition, the U.S. health system is already strained following a large tuberculosis outbreak in Kansas, bird flu (H5N1) across the country, and the highest number of flu cases we've seen in 15 years. Health care providers and public health workers are reporting that their facilities are understaffed and that they are exhausted.

Does this affect the U.S. and Mexico’s efforts to maintain elimination status?

In 2000, measles was declared eliminated in the U.S. and it was considered unthinkable that we would see a measles outbreak of this magnitude here, in one of the wealthiest countries in the world. In 2016, measles was declared eliminated in the Western Hemisphere (from North to South America). This was largely due to countries combining efforts to improve vaccination and surveillance. It was an incredible multi-national accomplishment by governments and health care professionals. We are at risk of reversing that progress to eliminate measles from our hemisphere, because the presence of the virus in one region places the others at risk of it spreading there as well.

Why is it important to stop the spread now?

Preventable deaths

Hospitalizations and deaths from measles are preventable. There is no reason that in 2025 we should accept that measles is making a comeback in the U.S. We have a vaccine that has been shown to be effective in preventing measles infection and has been shown over and over again to be safe. The good news is that most people in the U.S. are already vaccinated, and most parents want to vaccinate their kids. There are small groups of individuals who oppose vaccination and they are fueling this outbreak, which is sickening and killing mainly unvaccinated individuals.

Immunocompromised individuals

One of the things we worry about is that there are a lot of immunocompromised individuals who are at risk of severe illness if they get measles. Think about how many people you know who are on immunosuppressive medications, who have heart disease, diabetes, or cancer. It represents a growing percentage of the U.S. population.

Possible strain mutations

We also have to consider what this growing outbreak means for the risk of mutations arising that can lead to an even more infectious virus. So far, no concerning mutations have been found. For decades, measles has been a relatively stable virus, so the same vaccine has been in use and has been very safe and effective. If measles is allowed to spread unchecked, we could be in serious trouble of risking the virus mutating, leading to the vaccine becoming less effective in protecting against the virus. Why risk it?

What can we expect now that the virus has crossed international borders?

We should expect to see more cases. Measles vaccination coverage is lower in Mexico than in the United States. That means that the virus will likely spread faster in Mexico unless a robust response is put into place immediately to stop transmission and improve vaccination. In addition, like in the U.S., there is a growing number of immunocompromised individuals in Mexico. A large-scale measles outbreak in Mexico can result in hundreds of severe cases that will be difficult to treat. If the outbreak grows, their health system will be under tremendous strain, which will mean a potentially higher death rate than what we have seen in the U.S.

Since the beginning of the current U.S. outbreak that started in 2024, we have seen how difficult it has been for clinics and hospitals to prevent and slow the spread of measles. I have the same concerns for Mexico. In the U.S., many of us are immunocompromised or are using medications that can weaken the immune system, which is partly why we have seen more than 10 percent of measles patients become hospitalized. Mexico also has a large number of immunocompromised individuals. If the outbreak grows, they will have to consider setting up separate measles units, because you don't want a highly infectious pathogen like measles in your hospitals where there are immunocompromised patients, especially if you have limited resources.

MEDIA INQUIRIES: For reporters who wish to speak to Amira Roess about measles or other emerging diseases, please email media contact Michelle Thompson at mthomp7@gmu.edu.

Amira Roess is a professor of global health and epidemiology at George Mason �鶹��'s College of Public Health, Department of Global and Community Health. She is an epidemiologist with expertise in infectious diseases epidemiology, multidisciplinary and multi-species field research and evaluating interventions to reduce the transmission and impact of infectious diseases. Roess currently oversees several longitudinal studies to understand emergence and transmission of zoonotic infectious diseases globally, including the emergence and transmission of Campylobacter (with support from The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation), MERS-CoV (with support from the U.S. National Science Foundation), and the development of the microbiome during the first year of life. She studies links between food animal production and emerging infectious and zoonotic diseases emergence globally, and mHealth (especially apps) technology integration and evaluations to reduce the impact of infectious disease outbreaks, promote health care, and help reduce disparities.

About George Mason �鶹��

George Mason �鶹�� is Virginia’s largest public research university. Located near Washington, D.C., Mason enrolls more than 40,000 students from 130 countries and all 50 states. Mason has grown rapidly over the past half-century and is recognized for its innovation and entrepreneurship, remarkable diversity, and commitment to accessibility. In 2023, the university launched Mason Now: Power the Possible, a one-billion-dollar comprehensive campaign to support student success, research, innovation, community, and stewardship. Learn more at gmu.edu.

About College of Public Health at George Mason �鶹��

The College of Public Health at George Mason �鶹�� is the first College of Public Health in Virginia and a national leader in inclusive, interprofessional, public health research, education, and practice. The college is comprised of public health disciplines, health administration and policy, informatics, nursing, nutrition, and social work. The college offers a distinct array of degrees to support research and training of professionals dedicated to ensuring health and well-being for all. The college’s transdisciplinary research seeks to understand the many factors that influence the public’s health and well-being throughout the lifespan.

In This Story

Amira Roess, PhD, MPH

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The Ozempic shortage is over. What now?

Mary Cunningham — Fri, 11 Apr 2025 20:00:56 +0000

The Ozempic shortage is over. What now? Mary Cunningham Fri, 04/11/2025 - 16:00

After nearly three years of backorders and pharmacy scrambles, the high-demand weight-loss drugs Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro are finally back in full supply.

Martin Binks. Photo by Mary Cunningham/CPH

The FDA recently declared an end to the nationwide shortage of their active ingredients, semaglutide and tirzepatide. During the shortage, pharmacies were temporarily allowed to sell “compounded” versions—custom-mixed alternatives made from raw ingredients. But now that the FDA-approved brands are widely available, patients are facing new questions about access, safety, and ongoing care.

Martin Binks, chair of the Department of Nutrition and Food Studies at George Mason �鶹�� and a researcher and clinician with expertise in obesity, explains what this moment means for patients, providers, and public health.

Can people still get compounded versions of these drugs?

In most cases, no. The FDA rule is very clear. Now that the shortage is resolved, prescribers are only allowed to prescribe the safe and effective FDA-approved versions of these medicines—meaning pharmacies are prohibited from creating off-label compounded versions, even so-called “exact copies.” 

There will be rare exceptions when compounded versions are allowed. For example, if a patient has a specific medical need, such as an allergy, which can be resolved through minor changes in the drug’s formulation. 

If the FDA were to declare another shortage of these drugs, pharmacies would be allowed to sell compounded versions again. But this is very unlikely to happen given the huge investments companies like Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk are making in these medications.

Why are the compounded versions no longer allowed? What are the risks for patients?

Compounded versions are not approved by the FDA, meaning they are not subject to testing for safety and efficacy. This creates a lot of risks when the products are used by large populations. Also, the FDA versions are subject to post-approval monitoring for any new safety issues, compounded versions are not.

While many compounding pharmacies did act ethically during the shortage, and within the scope of the FDA’s temporary rules, the public can’t always identify the difference between those and “bad actors” selling dangerous counterfeits.

Will “bad actors” continue to sell the non-FDA approved versions?

Given the nature of demand for these weight loss medications, it’s very likely dangerous entities will continue to sell unapproved compounded versions of these drugs, creating a risk to public health until or unless we can improve access to the FDA-approved medicines. A recent JAMA Network Open study showed that nearly half of all online pharmacies selling semaglutide were illegal operations, with some products containing dangerous impurities or excessive doses. Beyond the adverse effects a patient could directly suffer from this, it may also deter people from using the well-tested, well-controlled FDA versions of these drugs that could actually improve their health, essentially creating a double-edged threat to public health.

What’s the right way to use weight loss medications like semaglutide and tirzepatide?

These medications are intended to be used alongside overall healthy habits. Used appropriately, they can help manage appetite and metabolism for people with obesity, but they’re most effective when combined with lifestyle changes like healthy eating, physical activity, sleep, and stress management. It’s also essential that patients meet medical criteria for use.

How can patients protect themselves now?

Be cautious about where you get your medication. Don’t rely on online sources that promise cheap or no prescription access. Talk to a licensed health-care provider about safe, approved options. And keep in mind that bad actors may continue trying to sell counterfeit products even as legitimate compounding operations shut down.

Martin Binks, Ph.D., MBA, is professor and chair of the Department of Nutrition and Food Studies at George Mason �鶹��’s College of Public Health. A metabolic disease scientist and clinician who is recognized as an international expert on obesity science and practice. Binks has spent more than 25 years treating patients with obesity through behavioral, pharmacologic, and surgical approaches. His research spans brain health and cognition, 3-D food printing, and nutrition’s role in chronic disease. Binks previously held academic and leadership positions at Texas Tech �鶹��, Duke �鶹�� Medical Center, and he is a fellow of The Obesity Society, the European Society of Preventive Medicine, World Obesity and the New York Academy of Medicine.

Media inquiries: To schedule an interview with Martin Binks, contact Associate Director of Marketing and Communications Mary Cunningham at mcunni7@gmu.edu.

Disclosures:

Martin Binks has interacted with a wide range of pharmaceutical companies in his fundraising role as Secretary Treasurer at The Obesity Society

Martin Binks has also received research funding from Novo Nordisk related to earlier versions of the GLP-1 medicines (liraglutide) and served on the speaker’s bureau at Novo Nordisk during the launch of Saxenda®

Martin Binks holds common stock in Eli Lily, Novo Nordisk and Aardvark Therapeutics.

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Obesity

Nutrition and Weight Management

Helping policymakers assess the impact of potential cuts to safety net programs

mthomp7 — Tue, 11 Mar 2025 15:08:48 +0000

Helping policymakers assess the impact of potential cuts to safety net programs mthomp7 Tue, 03/11/2025 - 11:08

In This Story

Priyanka Anand, PhD

George Mason �鶹�� health economist Priyanka Anand coauthored piece for Washington Center for Equitable Growth to inform policymaker decision-making.

Priyanka Anand. Photo by Office of �鶹�� Branding

In a recent article published by the Washington Center for Equitable Growth, economists Priyanka Anand and Robert Moffitt highlight the potential consequences cuts to Medicaid, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), and housing assistance would have on millions of Americans. The article titled "The U.S. House of Representatives’ budget resolution threatens social infrastructure programs, putting families’ well-being at risk" helps policymakers understand the myriad benefits of safety net programs and the implications of cutting these programs for millions of Americans.

As lawmakers refine the budget, the authors encourage members of the House committees to carefully consider the benefits that these programs deliver to U.S. families before making decisions about where and how to make the required spending cuts.

Priyanka Anand, PhD, is a health economist and associate professor at the George Mason �鶹�� College of Public Health. Robert Moffitt, PhD is a professor of economics at Johns Hopkins �鶹��.

Anand is available for comment on the article and on the benefits of safety net programs. Media may contact Michelle Thompson, Director of Marketing and Communications at mthomp7@gmu.edu.

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Bird flu: What you need to know

Mary Cunningham — Fri, 07 Feb 2025 19:12:26 +0000

Bird flu: What you need to know Mary Cunningham Fri, 02/07/2025 - 14:12

February 7, 2025

The first death in a person infected with avian influenza (H5N1), commonly referred to as bird flu, was confirmed on January 6 by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Louisiana, following 66 confirmed infections in humans. Health officials have identified cases of bird flu in humans and livestock in multiple states across the United States.

Nine states have reported cases in both humans and livestock, while an additional eight states have reported outbreaks exclusively in livestock. In total, 17 states have confirmed the presence of bird flu, including poultry farms in Maryland and Virginia. Thus far, there have been no reports of bird flu in Washington, D.C.

Updated reports in February are warning that a newer strain of avian flu (D1.1), previously only found in humans and birds, has now been detected in dairy cattle in Nevada. This mutation is different from the 2024 outbreak of avian flu (B3.13) that has been circulating across the U.S. Keeping the public informed about bird flu and educating people about ways to reduce the risk of infection is a public health priority.

Amira Roess, professor of global health and epidemiology in the College of Public Health, offers updated insight and clarity about the disease. Roess is an epidemiologist who studies emerging zoonotic (animal to human) infectious diseases and their risk factors. She was a leading source of public information during the COVID-19 pandemic. Roess served as the science director of the Pew Policy Commission on Industrial Food Animal Production, an epidemic intelligence service officer at the CDC, and a consultant on preparedness and response to H5N1 bird flu in 2006.

Should humans be concerned about contracting bird flu?

The risk to the general public remains low. So far, health officials have not identified or confirmed reports of person-to-person transmission of avian influenza. Those who work in close proximity to animals are at the greatest risk for infection. This includes individuals who care for backyard, noncommercial poultry flocks.

Fortunately, most human cases have been mild. However, we are worried for those individuals with underlying conditions coming into contact with the virus because their risk of severe illness and death is high. In addition to the increased risk, the virus is more likely to mutate as it lingers in immunocompromised patients. We worry that mutations will arise that make the virus more easily transmissible between humans and more deadly.

The individual in Louisiana who died was immunocompromised, and the strain identified in that individual appears to have mutated in them. This individual was infected while caring for their domesticated backyard poultry.

Are eggs and chicken safe to eat right now?

Yes, as long as they have been properly prepared for consumption. There has been no evidence in the U.S. of bird flu infections from properly cooked eggs, chicken, beef, or pasteurized milk. Uncooked (raw) and undercooked eggs, poultry, beef and unpasteurized milk can cause illness. Heat from cooking food properly kills bacteria and viruses, including avian flu. The best precaution is to ensure all meat is cooked thoroughly (see the CDC's safer foods table), stick to milk products that have been pasteurized, and separate raw food items from cooked.

Why is there an egg shortage at my grocery store?

This strain of bird flu is deadly to poultry. When the virus is detected, poultry on that farm are removed from the flock to stop the virus from spreading rapidly between poultry, other animals, and humans. Egg farms across the country are suffering from the loss, which has dwindled the production of eggs. Quite simply, fewer birds mean fewer eggs that can make it into our grocery stores. The demand for eggs cannot be met and so prices rise.

How did the disease get from birds and livestock to people?

There are many ways diseases spread from animals to people, directly and indirectly. Touching a contaminated animal, including pets and domesticated livestock, or being exposed to bodily fluids or feces where the animal has been, can result in transmission.

What we’re primarily seeing in this current outbreak is that agriculture workers and those working with poultry are coming into contact with poultry and livestock that have been infected with bird flu. We are also seeing that cats drinking unpasteurized milk from infected cows are becoming infected and dying from H5N1. At the same time, the FDA has asked pet food companies to consider making sure that pet food contains no raw products since they recognize the general risk to pet health from the consumption of raw animal products.

What are the symptoms of bird flu in humans?

Symptoms of this outbreak are like those of other seasonal infections. Redness of the eyes, congestion, cough, sore throat, body and headaches, and slight fever are the most common. In some cases, redness of the eyes was the only symptom present. Severe cases, which are rare, may include higher fever, difficulty breathing, and even unconsciousness.

How is bird flu diagnosed? Is there a test for bird flu, like there is for the flu and COVID-19?

Infection is determined by testing a swab of the nose or throat using specific laboratory tests to detect the virus. Because outward signs are so similar to other influenza strains and respiratory illnesses, bird flu can be confused with other illnesses. If you think you have bird flu you should see your health care provider as soon as possible. They can diagnose you and determine the next steps and treatment.

How can we prevent bird flu from further spreading?

We know that those at the greatest risk of infection are agricultural workers and people in close proximity with infected animals. Be vigilant around animals, especially dairy cows and poultry. If you suspect an outbreak among animals, avoid contact with the animals and report it to your local health department immediately. Contact your health care provider or state and local health departments to request a test if you believe you may have already been exposed. Quarantine and be sure to avoid people as much as possible while waiting for results.

As the virus continues to spread, the risk of people coming into contact with it increases. Those who are immunocompromised, or in close quarters with those who are, should exercise extra caution. Get the flu shot, make sure to eat healthy foods, get adequate sleep and try to reduce your stress levels. All of this will reduce the risk of infection and if you are infected this can help lessen disease severity.

MEDIA INQUIRIES: For reporters who wish to speak to Amira Roess about bird flu or other emerging diseases, please email media contact Michelle Thompson at mthomp7@gmu.edu.

About George Mason �鶹��

About College of Public Health at George Mason �鶹��

The College of Public Health at George Mason �鶹�� is the first College of Public Health in Virginia and a national leader in inclusive, interprofessional, public health research, education, and practice. The college is comprises public health disciplines, health administration and policy, informatics, nursing, nutrition, and social work. The college offers a distinct array of degrees to support research and training of professionals dedicated to ensuring health and well-being for all. The college’s transdisciplinary research seeks to understand the many factors that influence the public’s health and well-being throughout the lifespan.

The college enrolls more than 1,900 undergraduate and 1,300 graduate students in our nationally recognized programs, including 5 undergraduate degrees, 7 master’s degrees, and 4 doctoral degrees, and 10 certificate programs. �鶹�� graduates are uniquely prepared to thrive in an increasingly multicultural, multidisciplinary, community-focused public health landscape.

In This Story

Amira Roess, PhD, MPH

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Hacking a tough labor market: Tips for recent grads

Colleen Rich — Mon, 17 Jun 2024 17:59:41 +0000

Hacking a tough labor market: Tips for recent grads Colleen Rich Mon, 06/17/2024 - 13:59

The Class of 2024 graduated into a relatively challenging labor market. Jackie Brown, assistant professor in the Business Foundations area at the Costello College of Business at George Mason �鶹��, said recent grads should be leaning a little harder into core professional skills, such as networking.

Jackie Brown. Photo provided

She says that even in a competitive market, networking in the right way will make you a leading candidate for that dream first job. More importantly, it can start you on a path toward long-term career fulfillment.

What would be your main piece of advice to a recent George Mason graduate who’s looking for their dream job?

The most effective way to pursue the career you want is through networking. That is especially the case for early-career individuals, who have little or no professional track record to point to. And the intense competition created by challenging labor markets makes networking even more important.

Notice I said “the career you want,” not “the job you want.” That’s a key distinction, because networking is an indispensable professional skill to learn and use over the length of a career, not just on the job hunt. Networking for the purposes of information gathering and relationship building, rather than solely to identify job leads, can help identify trends and other salient factors affecting your targeted industry. You want to become familiar with the goals, challenges, and culture of the industry you’re attempting to join. As you engage with potential employers, you can use that knowledge to frame informed questions that will reveal more about what that company is looking for and how you could contribute.

Can you say more about how early-career professionals can use the knowledge learned through networking?

Having a deep understanding, both at the industry and company level, will help you craft an effective “pitch” for use in cover letters and interviews. The idea is not just to prove you have done your homework, but to make a strong case for your “culture fit” and the benefits you would bring to that employer. As much as possible, you should customize your pitch to suit the industry, company, and individual(s) concerned.

Beyond being informed, how can early-careers get the greatest bang for their networking buck?

Building strong relationships through networking is, of course, first and foremost about communication. When interacting digitally, it’s easy to communicate without first thinking about the context, especially for young people who fire off texts as easily and naturally as breathing. But in any written communication, such as an introductory email or LinkedIn connect request, it is vital to exercise rhetorical awareness, i.e., adapting language based on the context, scope, and expectations or understanding of the recipient. Think about the probable state of mind of the intended recipient, the information they would need in order to decide to grant or deny your request, any help you could potentially offer, etc.

What about the question of online vs. in-person networking? Which is more likely to move the career needle?

I would encourage recent grads to work against the inherent impersonality of post-COVID online interactions. For example, when attending Zoom webinars for industry professionals, being one of the few to turn your camera on will make you more memorable. After all, a digital encounter is OK in and of itself, but is perhaps most valuable as a stepping stone to an in-person connection, which can yield higher-quality connections.

How wide a networking net should people be casting? Should they be solely focused on folks who can get them a job?

Networking communications are opportunities to show kindness and inclusivity—two increasingly sought-after leadership “essential skills,” as I refer to them, or more commonly known as “soft skills.” You’ve probably already heard that after an interview, you should send timely, thoughtful, and thankful follow-up emails to the hiring manager (and any other participants). But have you reached out to thank that LinkedIn connection who steered you to the job posting in the first place? What about your ex-professor who helped you with your resume and cover letter? Or the administrative associate who did the work to align everyone’s schedules for the interview? Kind and inclusive networking communications certainly take time, but should be viewed as a necessary investment that will pay handsome career and relational dividends that go far beyond any one job opportunity.

Jackie Brown has worked in nonprofit organizations, legal establishments (law firm and court house), digital consultancies, and universities. She has been with the Costello College of Business at George Mason �鶹�� since 2012.

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Should I be worried about bird flu? Everything you need to know

Mary Cunningham — Wed, 22 May 2024 15:13:12 +0000

Should I be worried about bird flu? Everything you need to know Mary Cunningham Wed, 05/22/2024 - 11:13

Professor Amira Roess

In April, the World Health Organization confirmed a case of Avian influenza A (H5N1), commonly known as bird flu, in a human in Texas. The individual contracted the disease while working on a commercial dairy cattle farm where the cows are believed to have been infected. The individual reported only minor symptoms and is the first confirmed human case in 2024. A second case of bird flu was reported in a human in May 2024. Cases of bird flu in cattle and other animals have now been found in Idaho, Kansas, Michigan, New Mexico, Ohio, Texas, and other states.

Reports have emerged that virus particles have been found in milk, but it is important to note that the virus particles are not infectious in pasteurized milk. Global organizations continue to monitor the situation as it evolves.

Amira Roess, professor of global health and epidemiology, offers insight and clarity on the uncertainties of this early disease outbreak. Roess is an epidemiologist who studies emerging zoonotic infectious diseases and their risk factors. Her research is interdisciplinary and includes complex longitudinal studies throughout the world. She served as the science director of the Pew policy commission on Industrial Food Animal Production and also served as a consultant on preparedness and response to H5N1 in 2007.

Should I be worried about bird flu right now?

Right now, most individuals do not need to be particularly worried about this strain of influenza because it is not affecting large numbers of people. There are many actions being taken to protect humans and to limit the impact of this virus on both our food supply and on people. For example, surveillance of animals has ramped up in response to the growing epidemic in animals. As infected animals are being identified, they are removed from the food supply before they can spread the virus.

Should we be worried that the current outbreak will spread?

Several agencies are closely monitoring the situation. So far this year, cows, birds, and one person in the U.S. have been infected with the virus. Influenza viruses are notorious for their ability to mutate. We have limited knowledge of cow viruses adapting to humans so the mutations must be monitored closely for any changes that may occur that make the virus more transmissible or more dangerous to humans. If changes occur, early interventions can be put in place, including the development of tailored, vaccines.

We have decades of experience monitoring influenza and H5N1 in particular. What we have seen time and time again is that surveillance of human, animal, and environmental samples is extremely important. Surveillance allows us to identify new viral strains that may have public health importance before they cause large numbers of severe illness and death in both people and animals.

Is milk safe to drink even though the virus has been found in milk?

Here I will emphasize the pasteurized milk is safe for consumption. There have been reports of cats being fatally infected with this strain of influenza after consuming contaminated raw milk.

Testing by the FDA and USDA has not detected any live viruses in retail pasteurized dairy products like cheese, sour cream, or milk powders. Essentially, this means that while viral particles have been detected in pasteurized dairy products, including milk, these are not infectious. The bottom line is that pasteurization is effective in inactivating potentially live strains of bird flu.

To speak to Amira Roess about bird flu or other emerging diseases, please contact Michelle Thompson at mthomp7@gmu.edu

About George Mason �鶹��

About College of Public Health at George Mason �鶹��

The College of Public Health at George Mason �鶹�� is the first and only College of Public Health in Virginia combining public health transdisciplinary research, education, and practice in the Commonwealth as a national exemplar. The College enrolls more than 1,900 undergraduate and 1,300 graduate students in our nationally recognized programs, including six undergraduate degrees, eight master’s degrees, five doctoral degrees, and six professional certificate programs. The College is comprised of the School of Nursing and the Departments of Global and Community Health, Health Administration and Policy, Nutrition and Food Studies, and Social Work.

In This Story

Amira Roess, PhD, MPH

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Mason Scientists Sound 'Wake-up Call' on Virginia’s Wildfires

Colleen Rich — Tue, 23 Apr 2024 15:17:57 +0000

Mason Scientists Sound 'Wake-up Call' on Virginia’s Wildfires Colleen Rich Tue, 04/23/2024 - 11:17

Page, Shenandoah County wildfires a warning to prepare for more frequent future disasters

A group of scientists from George Mason �鶹��’s College of Science are calling the Page and Shenandoah County wildfires a “wake-up call” for Virginia and the Eastern Seaboard that heralds the increasing threat of wildfire to the region as the climate continues to change.

Wildfires that are a regular occurrence in the western United States will become more frequent in the east in the decades to come, they warn.

“There have been few wildfires in Virginia over the last two decades, but the risk of wildfires has been increasing due to extreme weather and climate events caused by climate change,” said John Qu, director of Mason’s Environmental Science and Technology Center.

In the case of the Page and Shenandoah County wildfires, “swift actions from emergency managers and first responders, complemented by fortunate rainfall, helped dodge a dire outcome,” said Alireza Ermagun, director of the Mobility Observatory and Data Analytics Lab and an assistant professor in the Department of Geography and Geoinformation Science.

Nevertheless, “the fires brought severe air pollution to northwestern Virginia,” said Daniel Tong, associate professor of atmospheric chemistry and aerosols in the Department of Atmospheric, Oceanic and Earth Sciences.

The scientists said this alarm bell points to the need for building resilience, solidifying emergency preparedness, and planning for evacuation, particularly for vulnerable populations including those with disabilities or without private transportation. Early detection measures will help, as will making the population more aware of this increasing threat.

The Mason scientists who are available for comment on wildfire, including in Virginia, include:

Daniel Tong—air quality observations and predictions (wildfires, dust storms and aerosol effects)

Daniel Tong, an associate professor of atmospheric chemistry and aerosols in the Department of Atmospheric, Oceanic and Earth Sciences within Mason’s College of Science, works closely with NASA’s Health and Air Quality Applied Sciences Team, and leads a NASA-funded effort to improve the country’s dust forecasting capabilities. His atmospheric modeling tools were tapped to better understand the recent Canadian wildfires and their impact on air quality across the United States. By plugging real-time satellite data into a complex model of Earth’s atmosphere—one that accounts for site-specific variables like soil type, wind speed, and how Earth’s surface interacts with winds—the system churns out hourly forecasts that can even predict dust storms up to three days in advance.

Alireza Ermagun—vulnerable populations, emergency preparedness

Alireza Ermagun, the Director of the Mobility Observatory and Data Analytics Lab and an Assistant Professor in the Department of Geography and Geoinformation Science at George Mason �鶹��, is at the forefront of creating safer futures for wildfire-prone communities in California. By developing a practice-ready framework, he addresses the urgent evacuation and sheltering needs of disadvantaged communities when wildfires erupt. His NSF-sponsored project, “Snuff It Out: Extinguishing the Disparity of Access to Shelters for Disadvantaged Communities in Wildfire-Prone Areas,” marks a significant leap forward in his commitment. Collaborating closely with local emergency preparedness and law enforcement officials, Ermagun’s work is setting new standards in optimizing wildfire responses. This project is not just about immediate relief; it is about embedding equity into wildfire preparedness strategies, offering a model for resilience that communities across America facing similar threats can replicate.

John Qu—early warning systems, forestry–wildfire nexus

John Qu is a professor of Geography and Geoinformation Science at Mason and Mason Institute of Sustainable Earth Fellow. He serves as the director of the Environment Science and Technology Center (ESTC) (http://estc.gmu.edu) and served as the funding director of the EastFIRE Lab from 2005 to 2013. He focuses his research on wildland fires, land, water, and atmospheric environmental remote sensing, and also collaborates with international partners. His efforts to develop integrated early warning and decision-support systems for sustainable Water-Energy-Food-Health (WEFH) Nexus are already underway, including projects to support the NOAA Atmospheric Temperature Climate Data Record from POES Microwave Sounders to JPSS/ATMS, NOAA; the Africa Soil Moisture Monitoring and Applications with WMO, and assessing impacts of large wildland fires with USDA/FS.

About George Mason �鶹��

George Mason �鶹�� is Virginia’s largest public research university. Located near Washington, D.C., Mason enrolls more than 40,000 students from 130 countries and all 50 states. Mason has grown rapidly over the past half-century and is recognized for its innovation and entrepreneurship, remarkable diversity, and commitment to accessibility. In 2023, the �鶹�� launched Mason Now: Power the Possible, a one-billion-dollar comprehensive campaign to support student success, research, innovation, community, and stewardship. www.gmu.edu.

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Should you be worried about ‘zombie deer’?

Mary Cunningham — Wed, 20 Mar 2024 17:28:05 +0000

Should you be worried about ‘zombie deer’? Mary Cunningham Wed, 03/20/2024 - 13:28

Attention Media: To speak to Amira Roess about chronic wasting disease, please contact Director of Marketing and Communications, Michelle Thompson at mthomp7@gmu.edu

George Mason �鶹�� researcher Amira Roess discusses deer with chronic wasting disease, nicknamed "zombie deer," and what the risk to humans is.

Photo by Getty Images

Zombies have been found in a northern Maryland state park—zombie deer that is. The sick deer are not after human brains, but they could be harmful to humans who have contact with them.

We spoke with Amira Roess, professor of global health and epidemiology at George Mason �鶹��'s College of Public Health, to learn about zombie deer. Roess worked on deer-related illness while she was an epidemic intelligence service officer (i.e., an outbreak investigator) at the Centers for Disease Control. She is one of the principal investigators, along with Taylor M. Anderson of the College of Science on a study funded by the USDA examining the nature of human and deer contact in urban areas, specifically in the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area.

What are zombie deer?

What is referred to as "zombie deer" are actually deer infected with chronic wasting disease (CWD), which is a prion disease. Deer with CWD can appear very unsteady, stumbling a lot, and are often very thin. They may also show other symptoms related to neurological damage.

Prions are proteins that cause other proteins to unfold. Some describe them as virus-like proteins. When they infect a person or an animal they cause severe neurological damage. This leads to serious symptoms that get worse over time including unsteadiness, loss of the ability to speak or walk or swallow, and weight loss.

How worried should people be about getting prion disease?

Fortunately, the risk of prion disease from deer appears low if humans limit their contact with deer, especially their blood and nervous tissue. But this means that we must be very careful and vigilant.

Why haven’t we heard of prions before?

You may not remember hearing the word "prion,” but you might remember hearing about a prion called bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE), which was commonly called “mad cow disease” by many. That experience showed the world just how deadly prion diseases can be for humans.

During the BSE outbreak in England in the 1990s, humans became infected after eating beef products that had come from cattle infected with prions. Infected people lost their ability to walk, talk, and had very agonizing slow deaths that could only be diagnosed after death upon autopsy. That was the largest prion outbreak ever documented. What is very concerning is that in the U.S. when we test deer for chronic wasting disease, we increasingly find it.

Are you worried about outbreaks?

I am concerned that it is a matter of time before we find prion disease among people whose only exposure was through direct contact with deer. In the case of BSE, it was hypothesized that many infected individuals had first gotten exposed 10 or more years prior to their deaths. We believe that during those 10 or more years the prion slowly caused damage and went undetected until the damage got so extensive, that symptoms appeared.

How can we reduce our risk of contracting CWD?

Deer are wildlife, and as with all wildlife, we need to limit our contact with them. In many parts of the U.S., white-tailed deer are becoming habituated or accustomed to humans. They know that we generally don't hurt them, and increasingly we do things like feed them. But remember, deer are not pets—they have not evolved to be in such close contact with humans. They are still wildlife and deserve our respect and distance.

Do not approach deer and train your pets not to approach them either. If you have children or take care of children, make sure to teach them to be respectful of wildlife and to never approach deer or other wildlife. This is especially important if the animal appears hurt, sick, or disoriented. In that case, call 311 or your local wildlife office immediately to get a professional involved to help the animal.

Is there a group that is more at risk for chronic wasting disease?

Deer hunters are at an increased risk because of their close contact with the blood and nervous tissue of deer that they have hunted. Numerous educational resources about how to protect yourself from the risk of prions and other pathogens when hunting are now available. The best advice is to use personal protective equipment (PPE). If a deer appears sick, do not hunt it. Hunters can access information from their local games departments and in the USDA chronic wasting disease website.

Are there other animals that carry prions?

So far there have been reports of prion disease in humans, sheep, goats, cattle, mink, cats, and lemurs, among other mammals. �鶹�� knowledge about which other animals can be infected is limited by the fact that we don't have active surveillance for prion disease and most other diseases. What we know is very limited and confined to our experiences with cattle, deer, and other animals that have been found infected because of symptoms. Prions can remain in the environment for long periods of time, and they are very difficult to destroy.

What can we do to protect deer?

Remember that all wildlife deserve our respect and deserve to be left alone. Do not feed deer or other wildlife and remove all food sources (such as trash) to protect deer, raccoons, squirrels, birds and other animals.

When people approach an injured or sick animal, we often cause stress to the animal which then can make the animal sicker. If a deer looks sick, you should exercise extreme caution and not approach it. Instead, call 311 and report the deer so that it can be tested.

Studies have found that wildlife are losing their fear of humans, and this is linked to an increase in illness in these animals and also in people. Remember that wildlife carry numerous diseases that can harm people, including deer ticks that spread Lyme disease, and raccoons, coyotes, and foxes that spread rabies.

To speak to Amira Roess about chronic wasting disease, please contact Michelle Thompson at mthomp7@gmu.edu

Amira Roess is a professor of global health and epidemiology at George Mason �鶹��'s College of Public Health, Department of Global and Community Health. She is an epidemiologist with expertise in infectious diseases epidemiology, multidisciplinary and multi-species field research and evaluating interventions to reduce the transmission and impact of infectious diseases. Roess currently oversees several longitudinal studies to understand emergence and transmission of zoonotic infectious diseases globally, including the emergence and transmission of Campylobacter (with support from The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation), MERS-CoV (with support from the US National Science Foundation), and the development of the microbiome during the first year of life. She studies links between food animal production and emerging infectious and zoonotic disease emergence globally, and mHealth (especially apps) technology integration and evaluations to reduce the impact of infectious diseases outbreaks, promote health care and health reduce disparities.

Some of her deer-related work appears in these journal articles:

More resources about chronic wasting disease can be found here:

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Amira Roess, PhD, MPH

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10 Warning Signs of Teen Dating Violence

Mary Cunningham — Thu, 25 Jan 2024 23:42:53 +0000

10 Warning Signs of Teen Dating Violence Mary Cunningham Thu, 01/25/2024 - 18:42

In This Story

Daphne King, EdD, MSW, LCSW

Twenty-six percent of women and 15% of men who were victims of intimate partner violence reported that their first experience was before age 18, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Youth Risk Behavior Survey and the National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey.

George Mason �鶹�� researcher Daphne King, EdD, assistant professor in the Department of Social Work, wants to use Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month (February) to continue bringing awareness to intimate partner violence in young people.

“As with adult intimate partner violence, many teenagers who experience violence in their dating relationships do not tell anyone,” said King. “It is important to look out for warning signs and check in with anyone you know experiencing any of the signs.”

One in three teens in the United States will experience physical, sexual, or emotional abuse from someone they are in a relationship with before they become adults. Teen dating violence includes physical violence, sexual violence, psychological aggression, and stalking and can take place in person or electronically.

10 Warning Signs of Teen Dating Violence

Using insults, intimidation, or humiliation
Extreme jealousy, insecurity, or controlling behavior
Isolation from friends and family
Unwanted sexual contact of any kind
Explosive temper or unusual moodiness
Constantly monitoring social media activities or location
Invasions of privacy; showing up unannounced
Leaving unwanted items, gifts, or flowers
Abusing alcohol or drugs
Threatening or causing physical violence; scratches, bruises

“Even just one of these warning signs indicates a risk of teen dating violence and that you or the person experiencing this needs help. While some of these signs can be associated with issues other than teen dating violence, it’s important to act on red flags like these,” said King.

Parent involvement is a protective factor to safeguard teens against engaging in risky behaviors. Here are a few tips especially for parents:

Talk honestly and openly with your teen about what healthy relationships look like and that violence (verbal, physical, or sexual) has no place in a healthy relationship.
Know and recognize the signs of abuse, as well as the facts of dating violence.
Look for changes in your teen's mood, appearance, or activities; which could be an indication that something is wrong or abuse is happening. This could be things, such as a drop in grades, unexplained bruises, or a change in friends or peer group.

Teen dating violence has a lifelong impact on a person’s health and can be detrimental to a person’s physical and emotional well-being. Violence can lead to antisocial behaviors and symptoms of depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and future unhealthy relationships.

There are many resources available if you or someone you know is being abused. Talk to a trusted adult or visit loveisrespect.org or www.thatsnotcool.com for support and help. Additional resource: National Domestic Violence Hotline 800-799-7233 or text START to 88788

Dr. Daphne King is an assistant professor and Master of Social Work online program director in the Social Work Department of George Mason �鶹��’s College of Public Health. King’s research interests are self-esteem issues in teens and adolescents, mental health concerns and treatment modalities for women of color, specifically African-American women, and the impact engagement in Christianity or spiritual practices have on self-esteem. King is an expert in treating teens and adolescents with self-esteem issues and depression and has facilitated numerous clinical and psychoeducational groups on self-esteem issues for teens.

To speak to Dr. King, contact Michelle Thompson at 703-993-3485 or mthomp7@gmu.edu.

About George Mason
George Mason �鶹��, Virginia’s largest public research university, enrolls 39,000 students from 130 countries and all 50 states. Located near Washington, D.C., Mason has grown rapidly over the last half-century and is recognized for its innovation and entrepreneurship, remarkable diversity and commitment to accessibility. In 2022, Mason celebrates 50 years as an independent institution. Learn more on our homepage.

About the College of Public Health
The College of Public Health at George Mason �鶹�� is the first and only College of Public Health in Virginia and a national leader in inclusive, interprofessional, public health research, education, and practice. The College is comprised of public health disciplines, health administration and policy, informatics, nursing, nutrition, and social work. The College offers a distinct array of degrees to support research and training of professionals dedicated to ensuring health and well-being for all. The College’s transdisciplinary research seeks to understand the many factors that influence the public’s health and well-being throughout the lifespan. Areas of focus include prevention and treatment of infectious and chronic diseases, inequalities and marginalized communities, environmental health and climate change, nutrition, violence, mental and behavioral health, informatics, and health technologies. With more than 500 partners, the College serves the community through research, practice, and clinical care with a focus on the social determinants of health and health equity.

The College enrolls more than 1,900 undergraduate and 1,300 graduate students in our nationally-recognized programs, including 6 undergraduate degrees, 8 master’s degrees, and 5 doctoral degrees, and 6 certificate programs. �鶹�� graduates are uniquely prepared to thrive in an increasingly multicultural, multidisciplinary, community-focused public health landscape.

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Mason athletic experts: All schools will need to adapt to a fast-changing college sports landscape

Colleen Rich — Thu, 12 Oct 2023 16:22:07 +0000

Mason athletic experts: All schools will need to adapt to a fast-changing college sports landscape Colleen Rich Thu, 10/12/2023 - 12:22

Mason Provost Mark Ginsberg sits down with former college basketball coach Craig Esherick and Mason AD Marvin Lewis for Mason Vision Series. Photo by GMU TV

The advent of name, image and likeness (NIL) deals has been a game-changer, but George Mason �鶹�� officials like their chances of successfully navigating a fast-changing collegiate sports landscape.

“At a place like George Mason that might not have the same resources as a Power 5 school, there are other variables like coaching, culture, etc.,” said Marvin Lewis, Mason’s assistant vice president and director of Intercollegiate Athletics. “We have to focus on that because there’s always another school with a little bit more money in the NIL space, a little bit more resources. But, if you can develop that personal relationship, get a kid to really buy into our value proposition, hopefully, they won’t make that change.”

Lewis appeared with former college basketball coach Craig Esherick on the Mason Vision Series to discuss “The New Business of College Sports: Changes Shaking the Foundation of Intercollegiate Athletics.” Go here to watch the discussion.

Outgoing Mason Provost Mark Ginsberg hosted the hour-long discussion on GMU-TV that also delved into the transfer portal, soaring coaching salaries, the growing importance of television revenues in conference realignment, and the ongoing facilities arms race in major college sports.

NIL deals weren’t intended as a recruiting tool, but that’s been the unintended consequence, Lewis said. Wealthier schools have begun forming powerful collectives—groups of wealthy donors and boosters who come together to provide more NIL opportunities—to make their preferred school more attractive to potential student-athletes, Lewis said.

As a result, the chasm between the haves and the have-nots is increasing daily.

“That’s the challenge,” said Lewis, a former four-year basketball starter and team captain at Georgia Tech who helped lead the Yellow Jackets to the 2004 national championship game.

Esherick, now an associate professor of sport management within the College of Education and Human Development, spent more than 17 years as an assistant basketball coach at Georgetown before leading the Hoyas for five years. He also served as an assistant coach on the USA Olympic Team that competed in the 1988 Seoul Olympics.

He and Lewis agreed that a coach’s relationship with their players, a positive culture within the locker room, and a positive educational and social experience are draws for student-athletes.

“If you have a personal relationship with all your players and if the experience you can control is a healthy one with your players,” Esherick said, “most of them are not going to want to leave.”

Marvin Lewis can be reached at admason@gmu.edu.

Craig Esherick can be reached at cesheric@gmu.edu.

For more information, contact John Hollis at jhollis2@gmu.edu.

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Should you be worried about ‘zombie deer’?

What are zombie deer?

How worried should people be about getting prion disease?

Why haven’t we heard of prions before?

Are you worried about outbreaks?

How can we reduce our risk of contracting CWD?

Is there a group that is more at risk for chronic wasting disease?

Are there other animals that carry prions?

What can we do to protect deer?

In This Story

Study Public Health at Mason

Join the Mason Nation

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10 Warning Signs of Teen Dating Violence

In This Story

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Mason athletic experts: All schools will need to adapt to a fast-changing college sports landscape

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