July 2014 - National Association Federal Veterinarians

Published in Washington, DC by The National Association of Federal Veterinarians
Federal Veterinarian
Volume 71, Numbers 7
Are you financially ready to retire?
Announcements
Attention!
NAFV
will be
hosting
PLEASE
JOIN
US! a
bi-annual membership
meeting
later this
What:
NAFV Annual
month
at
the
USAHA
Meeting in conjunction
Meeting.
withAnnual
the AVMA
Convention
What: NAFV membership meeting
Location:
The Hyatt
July 2014
By: Tammy Flanagan
good date to retire because it is the last day of the
National Institute of Transition Planning
month and it just happens to fall on a Saturday.
June 12, 2014
FERS: The Last Day of the Month
Are you financially ready to retire? Consider all
For those under the Federal Employees Retire-
your potential sources of retirement income: Will
ment System, optional voluntary retirements begin
they provide enough money to cover your expens-
the first day of the month after the retirement date.
es for the next 20 to 30 years or more?
It doesn’t matter if you retire on the 1st, 15th, or
Are you mentally prepared? Are you looking for-
ways begin on the first day of the following month.
ing the loss of your identity?
Your salary will be paid through your date of final
If you can say yes to being both financially and
separation.
Rency Denver at ColoraDate:
MondayCenter
October
do
Convention
psychologically ready for retirement sometime next
Room: Centennial
Time: 5:30pm
– 8:00pm
Ballroom
G
Retire 2015 calendar. (And if you’re really ready to
21, 2013
Where: San
Diego,
Address:
650 15th
St.CA
Salon 3CO
room
Denver,
80202, USA
We will be discussing
important topics
regarding the future of
Federal Veterinarians
PLEASE RSVP @
[email protected]
year, then it’s time to begin assessing your options,
which are highlighted in the new Best Dates to
go and are thinking about retiring this year, check
out the Best Dates to Retire 2014 column from last
year.)
Whether you are planning to retire now or in the
future, there are some general principles you
should take into account. For example, you should
EVP Column
2
Alecia Naugle Promotion
3
won’t receive salary or retirement benefits for the
accumulate the maximum leave accrual. That way,
remainder of that month. If you retire before the end
you’ll get a generous lump sum annual leave pay-
of a leave period, you will not accumulate your final
out. But don’t be in too big a hurry: You’ll accumu-
leave accrual. There is nothing wrong with retiring
late additional retirement benefits if you postpone
in the middle of a leave period, or even in the mid-
leaving for six months or a year.
dle of a week, but it is especially sweet when the
3-6
Randall Crom Retirement
7
USDA Funding
Announcement
8
Letter from Kevin Shea
9
Obituary
10
month ends at the end of a week and at the end of
contemplate the calendar.
a leave period.
The 30-Day Retirement Month
Here are end-of month potential dates for FERS
A retirement month is not exactly the same as a
employees in 2015, with notes about why some
work month or for that matter, a calendar month.
may be particularly attractive:
The Office of Personnel Management pays retire-


ment benefits based on a 30-day month, so that
MMWR
If you retire before the end of the month, you
consider retiring at the end of the leave year to
Here are some other things to remember as you
Inside this issue:
30th of the month, your FERS retirement will al-
ward to your life after retirement, rather than dread-
each month of retired pay equals 30/30 of your
benefit amount, whether it is January, June or even
February. If you decide to retire on Saturday, Feb.
28, 2015, you would receive credit for an additional
two days of service since February has 30 days just
like every other month -- at least according to OPM.
Saturday, Jan. 31: First week of a leave period
Saturday, Feb. 28: First week of a leave peri-
od


Tuesday, March 31
Thursday, April 30: End of a leave period if
you work a compressed schedule/flex time

Saturday, May 30: End of a leave period, so
Although Feb. 28 is the middle of a leave period for
most federal employees next year, it is a pretty
(continues on page 10, Retirement Planning)
Page 2
July 2014
Federal Veterinarian (ISSN 0164-6257)
1910 Sunderland Pl., N.W.
Executive Vice President’s Column
Washington, D.C. 20036-1608
Why NAFV Chapter Meetings are Important
is published monthly except bimonthly in Nov-Dec and
By M. J. Gilsdorf DVM sues though, a more formal setting is ideal.
May-June by, and in the interest of, the National Asso-
Regular Association Chapter meetings do
ciation of Federal Veterinarians to whom it is mailed
free. Periodicals postage paid at Washington, D.C.
Generally, meet-
Correspondence should be addressed to:
Executive Vice President
National Association of Federal Veterinarians
not just strengthen bonds and work relation-
ings are organized
ships among members, but it also keeps every-
and conducted in
one aware and on track regarding work mat-
almost every associa- ters. Regular meetings can be conducted
1910 Sunderland Pl., N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20036-1608
tion, government/
where members share each other’s issues and
The annual subscription rate is $50.00 for United
corporate office, and
resolutions. This allows each member to be
States and Canada and $70.00 for foreign mailing,
business establish-
constantly updated with what things need to be
ment to deliver new
worked on. For example, when there are
payable by January 1 each year. Subscriptions are not
available to those eligible for membership.
Any veterinarian employed full time by the federal
government may become an active member (non DoD
dues $234.00 annually, payable annually, semiannual-
knowledge and information, explain policy, or
changes in the governmental goals/policies/
discuss crucial issues and team projects. It is
procedures, participants can discuss the
a way to keep each other updated with work
changes so they are aware of any potential
ly, or by federal payroll deductions--eligibility limited matters and common issues through a healthy
solely to USDA veterinarians--of $9.00 authorized by discussion. It is also a way to socialize and
issues that may arise.
signing USDA Form AD 1054 (FSIS) or SF 1187 form relationships that allow for mentoring and
organization. Meetings go beyond achieving
(APHIS) and DoD dues $150.00 annually). Fifty dollars partnering.
of the annual dues is for the subscription to the Federal
goals; it fosters and strengthens good working
In the current work environment, profession-
Veterinarian.
als need regular personal interaction more than
Associate membership may be granted to active members when they retire from federal service. Associate
members pay no dues. Associate mailed subscriptions
are $25.00 per year.
The National Association of Federal Veterinarians is a
non-profit corporation and the purposes for which it is
Meetings are essential to the success of any
relationships.
With those reasons in mind, NAFV is sched-
ever. Although telephone and online communi-
uling more than a dozen Chapter meetings
cation allow for a convenient and quick means
around the nation in 2014 and encourages
of interaction with peers and stakeholders and
each member to seek out and hold your own
provide an avenue for quick sharing of ideas,
meetings. NAFV can help. Currently, we are
scheduling time for a meeting still creates a
focusing on locations where there are larger
formed are to promote the veterinary profession, to different effect on the performance within any
improve the professional efficiency and material inter- association membership, government agency,
concentrations of federal veterinarians. We
ests of the members, to acquaint the public with the or business group of employees. Through reg-
speakers presenting on topics of interest to
activities of veterinarians in the federal service, and to ular meetings, a group can increase its netcooperate with the American Veterinary Medical Asso-
that particular group. NAFV’s American Acad-
ciation, the United States Animal Health Association
and other similar groups with common interests.
Editor: William James, DVM, MPH
also intend to offer Continuing Education with
working and its awareness of ongoing and
emy of Veterinary Preventive Medicine
potential issues that could affect their work-
(AAVPM) Committee invites all members to
place or quality of life.
suggest topics and speakers. The AAVPM
[email protected]
As a tool in associations, government, or
Postmaster: Send address changes to:
business, meetings can be conducted through
interest to those who cannot attend larger
Federal Veterinarian
lunch or dinner meetings for a change of envi-
Chapter meetings. Please contact your NAFV
1910 Sunderland Pl., N.W.
ronment. But this is best done if the conversa-
Representative or the office for more infor-
tion is light such as that of presenting infor-
mation.
Washington, DC 20036-1608
Tel: (202) 223-4878 | Fax: (202) 223-4877
Email: [email protected] | Website: www.nafv.org
NAFV Board of Directors
President: Dr. Douglas Fulnechek
President-Elect: Dr. Ken Angel
Secretary/Treasurer: Dr. John Sanders
Exec Vice President: Dr. Michael Gilsdorf
General Counsel
William G. Hughes, Esq.
7511 Leadenham Cove Road
P.O. Box 340
Bozman, Maryland 21612
Tel: (410) 745-0045
also intends to provide webinars on topics of
mation and socializing. For more serious is-
2014 NAFV Elections
In 2012 the NAFV executive committee proposed changes to the constitution and by-laws that
will bring NAFV into the new technology age, allowing the organization to mail or electronically
submit a vote during the election period.
In Article IX, Section 1. of the constitution and by-laws now states, “The ballot… shall be sent
to the members by any means including… electronically….”
The ability for NAFV to proceed in the future with the option of electronic voting will save money,
time and resources with accurate results.
Federal Veterinarian
Page 3
Federal Veterinarian Receives Promotion to Director of the SCGE Health Center
Dr. Alecia Naugle has been selected for the
vine TB Program Manag-
national strategic policy on bovine
Sheep, Goat, Cervid and Equine Health Center
er. Most recently, Dr. Naugle
TB and antimicrobial resistance,
(SCGE) Director position from a field of out-
has been on a one-year
and her ability to collaborate with
standing candidates.
detail to the USDA Office of
internal and external stakeholders
Dr. Naugle began her career with a DVM
the Chief Scientist, where
(including the White House), will
degree from Ohio State University, followed by
she has served as Senior
help set a solid strategic relation-
a year of private practice (livestock) experi-
Advisor for Animal Health,
ship with the sheep, goat cervid
ence. She then obtained a PhD degree in Vet-
Production and Animal Prod-
and equine commodity sectors.
erinary Preventive Medicine, specializing in
ucts. In this role she has
Epidemiology, prior to joining USDA. She has
been a leader, both within
been with USDA for over 10 years, beginning
and outside of the Depart-
with FSIS before coming to APHIS-VS. Within
ment, for the USDA’s project
VS, she has served in both the Scrapie and the
to address antimicrobial resistance.
BSE programs, and then ultimately as the Bo-
Dr. Naugle will be located in
the Riverdale office, and will
Dr. Alecia Naugle
begin her new duties on July 14."
Source: Dr. TJ Meyer
Dr. Naugle’s proven leadership in shaping
Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report ( MMWR)
Vital Signs: Foodborne Norovirus Outbreaks — United States, 2009–2012
June 6, 2014 / 63(22);491-495
were reported by 43 states and occurred year
the United States . Each year, there are an
Aron J. Hall, DVM, Mary E. Wikswo, MPH,
round. Restaurants were the most common
estimated 19–21 million cases of norovirus
Kimberly Pringle, MD, L. Hannah Gould, PhD,
setting (64%) of food preparation reported in
disease, including 1.7–1.9 million outpatient
Umesh D. Parashar, MBBS
outbreaks. Of 520 outbreaks with factors con-
visits, 400,000 emergency department visits,
On June 3, 2014, this report was posted as an
tributing to contamination reported, food work-
56,000–71,000 hospitalizations, and 570–800
MMWR Early Release on the MMWR website
ers were implicated as the source in 70%. Of
deaths, which result in approximately $777
(http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr).
324 outbreaks with an implicated food, most
million in health-care costs. Rates of severe
resulted from food contaminated during prepa-
outcomes, such as hospitalization and death,
Abstract
ration (92%) and food consumed raw (75%).
are greatest in children aged <5 years and
Introduction: Norovirus is the leading cause of
Specific food categories were implicated in only older adults aged ≥65 years. Symptoms include
acute gastroenteritis and foodborne disease in
67 outbreaks; the most frequently named were
vomiting, diarrhea, and sometimes fever, alt-
the United States, causing an estimated one in
vegetable row crops (e.g., leafy vegetables)
hough norovirus infections also can be asymp-
15 U.S. residents to become ill each year as
(30%), fruits (21%), and mollusks (19%).
tomatic. This genetically-diverse group of virus-
well as 56,000–71,000 hospitalizations and 570 Conclusions: Noroviruses are the leading
es comprises six genogroups (GI–GVI), three of
–800 deaths, predominantly among young
cause of reported foodborne disease outbreaks which (GI, GII, and GIV) cause human disease.
children and the elderly. Whereas noroviruses
and most often associated with contamination
Genogroups are further subdivided into at least
often spread through person-to-person contact,
of food in restaurants during preparation by
38 known norovirus genotypes; GII.4 strains
foodborne transmission can cause widespread
infected food workers.
cause most outbreaks worldwide.
exposures and presents important prevention
Implications for Public Health Practice:
opportunities.
Improved adherence to appropriate hand
Transmission of norovirus occurs primarily via
the fecal-oral route, including direct person-to-
Methods: CDC analyzed 2009–2012 data on
hygiene, excluding ill staff members from work-
person contact, consumption of contaminated
suspected and confirmed norovirus outbreaks
ing until ≥48 hours after symptom resolution,
food or water, or contact with contaminated
reported by state, local, and territorial health
and supervision by certified kitchen managers
environmental surfaces. Noroviruses also might
departments through the National Outbreak
are all recommended to reduce the incidence of be spread through incidental ingestion of vomi-
Reporting System (NORS) to characterize the
foodborne norovirus disease.
epidemiology of foodborne norovirus out-
tus droplets, which can disperse via aerosolization. The varied means through which no-
breaks.
Article
roviruses spread coupled with their environ-
Results: During 2009–2012, a total of 1,008
Introduction
mental stability (remain infectious at freezing
foodborne norovirus outbreaks were reported to
Noroviruses are the leading cause of both
NORS, constituting 48% of all foodborne out-
sporadic cases and reported outbreaks of
breaks with a single known cause. Outbreaks
acute gastroenteritis (diarrhea or vomiting) in
temperatures or until heated above 140°F [60°
(continues on page 4, MMWR)
July 2014
Page 4
(Continued from page 2, MMWR)
were calculated. Demographic data were not
2,961 (69%) were laboratory-confirmed, and
C], and for 2 weeks on surfaces), resistance to
always reported; therefore, the relative propor-
1,357 (31%) were suspected to be caused by
common disinfectants, low infectious dose (18–
tions of illnesses by age group and sex among
norovirus based on clinical or epidemiologic
2,800 viral particles), and copious shedding (up those reports that included such data (47% and findings. Of confirmed norovirus outbreaks, a
to 1012 viral particles per gram of feces)
65%, respectively) were extrapolated to the
genogroup was identified in 2,729 (92%), in-
among persons with asymptomatic infections
total number of reported outbreak-associated
cluding 2,341 (86%) GII, 374 (14%) GI, 13
as well as before, during, and after the manifes- illnesses. Monthly counts of outbreaks stratified (0.5%) mixed GI/GII, and one (0.04%) GIV. A
tation of symptomatic infections make these
by primary transmission route were calculated
specific norovirus genotype was reported in
viruses challenging to control.
to assess differences in seasonality. Rates of
707 (24%) of the laboratory-confirmed out-
reported outbreaks were calculated by dividing
breaks, among which GII.4 (465 [66%]) was
lecular methods and are not in widespread
the average annual number by the average
predominant, followed by GII.1 (58 [8%]) and
clinical use for sporadic cases; however, data
U.S. intercensal population estimates from
GI.6 (56 [8%]). Foodborne outbreaks were
collected through outbreak investigations pro-
2009–2012. Proportions among categorical
more often caused by non-GII.4 genotypes
vide insights that can help guide prevention
variables were compared using chi-square
(48%) than were nonfoodborne outbreaks
efforts. Noroviruses often are associated with
tests, and median illnesses per outbreak were
(31%, p<0.001).
person-to-person spread in health-care set-
compared by Wilcoxon rank-sum tests.
Norovirus diagnostics generally rely on mo-
tings, for which specific prevention and control
Level of food preparation (i.e., raw with mini-
Foodborne norovirus outbreaks were reported by 43 states (Figure 2), with the number per
guidelines are available; however, noroviruses
mal or no processing, raw with some pro-
also are the leading cause of sporadic cases
cessing, or cooked) and specific factors contrib- The median number of outbreaks per
state ranging from one to 117 (median = nine).
and outbreaks of foodborne disease in the
uting to food contamination were analyzed
1,000,000 person-years reported among the
United States, and thus require specific atten-
using standardized categorization schemes.
states was 0.6 (range = 0.05–5.5). Of 1,008
tion to improve food safety. This report provides Foods implicated in norovirus outbreaks were
foodborne norovirus outbreaks, a setting of
an updated description of the epidemiology of
classified using a categorization scheme re-
food preparation was reported for 904 (90%),
U.S. norovirus outbreaks, focusing on those
cently developed by the Interagency Food
among which restaurants (574 [64%]) and ca-
resulting primarily from foodborne transmission, Safety Analytics Collaboration.
tering or banquet facilities (151 [17%]) were
to help target interventions.
most common (Table 1). In contrast, most
Methods
Since 2009, state, local, and territorial health
Results
During 2009–2012, a total of 4,318 norovirus
(80%) nonfoodborne outbreaks occurred in
outbreaks were reported to NORS, resulting in
long-term care facilities such as nursing homes.
departments have electronically reported data
161,253 illnesses, 2,512 hospitalizations, and
Demographic characteristics and outcomes of
to CDC on outbreaks of acute gastroenteritis
304 deaths. Foodborne transmission was the
outbreak-associated illnesses reflected the
transmitted through food, water, person-to-
primary mode reported in 1,008 (23%) no-
settings in which outbreaks occurred (Table 2).
person contact, animal contact, contaminated
rovirus outbreaks, representing 48% of the
Foodborne outbreaks more often affected men
environments, and unknown transmission
2,098 foodborne outbreaks reported with a
(44%) and persons aged <75 years (95%),
routes through the National Outbreak Reporting single suspected or confirmed cause during the compared with nonfoodborne outbreaks (30%
System (NORS). An outbreak was defined as
4-year study period. Other primary transmission men and 50% aged <75 years, both p<0.001).
two or more cases of a similar illness epidemio- modes reported among the 4,318 norovirus
Likewise, the reported case-hospitalization and
logically linked to a common exposure (e.g., a
case-fatality ratios in foodborne outbreaks (1%
outbreaks included person-to-person (2,976
setting or a food). Primary transmission route is [69%]), environmental (15 [0.35%]), waterborne and 0.01%, respectively) were lower than those
determined by each reporting site, based on
(11 [0.26%]), and unknown transmission mode
in nonfoodborne outbreaks (2% and 0.3%,
the local public health investigation and CDC
(308 [7%]). In 158 (16%) of foodborne no-
respectively, both p<0.001), However, a greater
guidance documents. Outbreaks with a first
rovirus outbreaks, secondary transmission
proportion of cases among foodborne out-
illness onset date of January 2009–December
through one of these other modes was report-
breaks resulted in emergency department visits
2012 that indicated norovirus as the only sus-
ed. Norovirus outbreaks were most common in
than among nonfoodborne outbreaks (4% ver-
pected or confirmed cause were included in this winter, with 2,394 (55%) occurring during Deanalysis.
sus 2%, p<0.001). Foodborne outbreaks also
cember–February (Figure 1). Among foodborne had significantly fewer reported cases (median:
Frequencies of norovirus outbreaks, outbreak norovirus outbreaks, 398 (39%) occurred dur-
12 per outbreak) compared with nonfoodborne
-related illnesses, and their associated out-
ing December–February, compared with 1,996
outbreaks (median: 30 per outbreak, p<0.001).
comes (i.e., outpatient visits, emergency de-
(60%) of nonfoodborne norovirus outbreaks.
Factors contributing to food contamination were
partment visits, hospitalizations, and deaths)
Of the 4,318 reported norovirus outbreaks,
(Continued from page 3, MMWR)
Federal Veterinarian
(Continued from page 4, MMWR)
Page 5
utensils), 2) compliance with policies to prevent
and environmental contributing factors. Addi-
ill staff members from working until ≥48 hours
tionally, the Norovirus Sentinel Testing and
reported in 520 (52%) of 1,008 foodborne no-
after symptom resolution, 3) and supervision by Tracking network can help improve data com-
rovirus outbreaks, among which infectious food
a certified kitchen manager, as recommended
pleteness and provide a real-time assessment
workers were implicated as the source of con-
by the Food and Drug Administration Food
of norovirus activity in the context of new strain
tamination in 364 (70%). Bare-hand contact
Code. However, an observational study of food
emergence. Finally, NORS does not capture
with ready-to-eat foods was explicitly identified
workers in restaurants found proper hand
outbreaks occurring on cruise ships with inter-
in 196 (54%) of these outbreaks.
washing in only 27% of activities for which it is
national and U.S. ports; those are reported
recommended and even less frequently (16%)
through an active surveillance collaboration
ed in 324 (32%) of 1,008 foodborne norovirus
At least one specific food item was implicat-
when gloves were used. Additionally, one in
between the cruise industry and the CDC Ves-
outbreaks; among those outbreaks with data,
five food workers in restaurants report having
sel Sanitation Program. Although the 44 no-
92% of implicated foods were contaminated
worked while ill with vomiting or diarrhea for at
rovirus outbreaks meeting Vessel Sanitation
during preparation, and 75% were foods eaten
least one shift in the previous year. Fear of job
Program posting criteria during 2009–2012
raw (i.e., not cooked). Of 324 outbreaks with an loss and concerns about leaving coworkers
would represent only 1% of those reported
implicated food, only 67 (21%) could be at-
short-staffed were identified as significant fac-
through NORS, these high-profile outbreaks
tributed to a single food category; those at-
tors in their decision to work while ill and thus
often result in large numbers of cases.
tributed most often were vegetable row crops
are important barriers to be addressed. One
(e.g., lettuce and other leafy vegetables) (20
specific intervention with demonstrated success roviruses is substantial. Although candidate
[30%]), fruits (15 [21%]), and mollusks (13
is the training and certification of kitchen man-
norovirus vaccines are in development and
[19%]).
agers in appropriate food safety practices;
show promise, behavioral interventions focused
Conclusions and Comment
supervision by such certified kitchen managers
on food workers continue to be primary means
This report highlights the predominant role of is associated with fewer norovirus outbreaks
The public health burden exacted by no-
to prevent foodborne norovirus disease. Provi-
noroviruses among foodborne disease out-
and absence of bare-hand contact with ready-
sions in the Food and Drug Administration
breaks and specific actions that might reduce
to-eat foods as a contributing factor when out-
Food Code outline how foodborne spread of
their impact on public health. While there is the
breaks do occur.
noroviruses can be curtailed and food safety
potential for norovirus contamination during
The findings in this report are subject to at
improved.
production or harvesting of foods commonly
least three limitations. First, the 100-fold differ-
Key Points
eaten raw, particularly molluscan shellfish and
ence in outbreak reporting rates between the

fresh produce, most norovirus contamination
highest and lowest reporting states and the fact cause severe disease. About 1 in 15 U.S. resi-
occurs during food preparation. As shown in a
that some states did not report any outbreaks
previous analysis of foodborne norovirus outbreaks occurring during 2001–2008, food workers continue to be the primary source of contamination and have the potential to significant-
Norovirus is highly contagious and can
dents become ill with it each year and up to 800
likely reflect differing sensitivities of surveillance die.
for ascertaining outbreaks, rather than variation 
Person-to-person contact and foodborne
in disease incidence alone. The actual inci-
dence likely is much higher, indicating a contin-
ly amplify community transmission of norovirus- ued need for capacity of state and local health
es through widespread exposure. The majority
departments to investigate and report out-
of reported foodborne norovirus outbreaks
breaks. Second, missing data in key NORS
result from foods prepared in restaurants and
report fields, such as "contributing factors" and
other food service settings, where bare-hand
"implicated foods," indicate the need for investi-
contact by infectious workers with ready-to-eat
gative resources to understand the causes of
foods frequently is identified. Thus, interven-
an outbreak. CDC efforts to address these
tions targeting food workers have substantial
issues include improved integration of NORS
potential for prevention of norovirus transmis-
with other surveillance systems, such as the
sion.
National Voluntary Environmental Assessment
Steps to curtail contamination of ready-to-eat
Information System and CaliciNet, the CDC-
foods by food workers include 1) adherence to
coordinated laboratory network for norovirus
appropriate recommendations for hand wash-
outbreaks. Data from these systems in conjunc-
ing and avoiding bare-hand contact with ready-
tion with NORS data might help improve attrib-
to-eat foods (e.g., through use of gloves or
ution of norovirus disease to specific strains
transmission are the main ways that norovirus
outbreaks occur.

Of those foodborne outbreaks in which a
single cause was identified, 48% were caused
by norovirus, making it the leading cause of
foodborne outbreaks in the U.S.

Restaurants are the most common setting
for foodborne norovirus outbreaks. Food handlers infected with norovirus are the largest
source of food contamination.

CDC recommends improved adherence to
hand hygiene, having ill workers stay home
until ≥48 hrs after their symptoms resolve, and
having kitchen managers become formally
certified in food safety.
(Continues on page 6, MMWR)
Page 6
July 2014
FIGURE 1. Number of reported norovirus outbreaks, by primary trans-
FIGURE 2. Number and rate of reported foodborne no-
mission mode and month of onset —
rovirus outbreaks (per 1 million person-years), by state —
National Outbreak Reporting System,
National Outbreak Reporting System, United States, 2009
United States, 2009–2012
TABLE 1. Number and percentage of reported foodborne
TABLE 2. Number and percentage of persons with illness associated with report-
and nonfoodborne norovirus outbreaks, by setting
ed foodborne and nonfoodborne norovirus outbreaks, by selected characteristics
National Outbreak Reporting System, United States,
and outcomes — National Outbreak Reporting System, United States, 2009–2012
2009–2012
Foodborne
Nonfoodborne
No.
No.
Setting
Restaurant
Catering or ban-
574
(64)
38
(%)
(1)
(0.3)
Private residence 37
(4)
32
(0.1)
School
13
(1)
148
(6)
12
(1)
2,060
(80)
Hospital
2
(0.2)
115
(4)
Day care
1
(0.1)
52
(2)
114
(13)
137
(5)
904
(100)
2,590
(100)
facility
Other/Multiple
settings
All settings
Nonfoodborne
No.
(%)
No.
(%)
Male
9,285
(44)
42,112
(30)
Female
11,780
(56)
98,076
(70)
0–4
481
(2)
2,178
(2)
5–19
2,959
(14)
18,621
(13)
20–49
9,558
(45)
24,619
(18)
50–74
7,002
(33)
24,910
(18)
≥75
1,064
(5)
69,860
(50)
1,102
(7)
3,848
(7)
Emergency department visit 520
(4)
1,109
(2)
Hospitalization
203
(1)
2,309
(2)
Death
2
(0.01)
302
(0.3)
Total illnesses
21,065
(100)
140,188
(100)
Age group (yrs)
8
Long-term care
Foodborne
Sex
(%)
(17)
quet facility
Characteristic/Outcome
151
Outcomes
Outpatient visit
Federal Veterinarian
Page 7
Veterinary Careers in Federal Service – Dr. Randy Crom
By Dr. Michael Gilsdorf, EVP June 16, 2014
Dr. Crom graduated from Iowa State Univer-
zerland. As part of the WHO Secretariat, he
coordinating over 1,000 investigations per year
developed recommendations and guidelines
of suspected cases of foreign animal disease
on: control and containment of medically‑rele-
in livestock in the United States.
sity’s College of Veterinary Medicine in
vant antimicrobial
In 2005, Dr. Crom
1980. After graduation Randy worked as a
resistance in food
was named a Director
small animal practitioner near Minneapolis,
animals; applied
for Biodefense Policy
MN.
research and data
for the White House
gathering to assist in
Homeland Security
Services (VS) in 1984 in Puerto Rico. He
Dr. Crom joined USDA-APHIS Veterinary
risk assessment on
Council in Washing-
worked on the eradication of brucellosis and
use of quinolones in
ton, DC. There he
tuberculosis. Between 1985 and 1986, Dr.
food animals; re-
was part of a national
Crom was assigned as a Field Station Director
search priorities on
team writing the Im-
for the PR Tick Eradication Program (TEP).
non‑O157 Shiga
plementation Plan for
In 1986, Dr. Crom was selected by VS for a
toxin‑producing E.
the National Strategy
detail to the Centers for Disease Control and
coli; and research
for Pandemic Influen-
Prevention to complete training as an Epidemic needs related to
za. He wrote the
Intelligence Service Officer. As part of the EIS
monkeypox and
chapter on animal
program, Randy was assigned to the Arizona
other orthopoxvirus-
health and worked
Department of Health Services in Phoenix, AZ
es.
until 1988. There he conducted epidemiologic
In 1999, Dr. Crom
Dr. Randall Crom
with other team members to address ani-
field investigations on a childhood cancer clus-
returned to VS in Riverdale, MD as a veterinary mal health issues related to all other parts of
ter, and outbreaks of Creutzfeldt‑Jakob Dis-
epidemiologist. There he provided national
the plan. In 2006, Randy returned as a veteri-
ease, hepatitis A, and shigellosis.
coordination and epidemiologic policy develop-
nary epidemiologist for VS. He continued to
In 1988, Dr. Crom returned to Puerto Rico as
ment in the responses to several major disease provide national coordination and epidemiolog-
the epidemiologist for the TEP where he
incidents in the United States including: West
ic policy development in the responses to sev-
worked with other VS and Commonwealth
Nile virus (WNV), exotic Newcastle disease
eral major disease incidents in the United
personnel to conduct epidemiologic analyses
(END), avian influenza, and bovine spongiform
States including: contagious equine metritis,
which determined that cattle were the only
encephalopathy (BSE). He led development of
malignant catarrhal fever, BSE, and vesicular
animals that presented a significant risk for
the surveillance plan used to demonstrate
stomatitis virus.
maintaining and transmitting Boophilus mi-
successful eradication of END from California
Dr. Crom retired in May 2014. He has been a
croplus (now Rhipicephalus microplus) infesta-
in 2003. After being named as the WNV Coor-
member of NAFV since 1984. He has received
tions.
dinator for USDA-APHIS in 2000, Randy facili-
numerous awards including several
In 1991, he transferred to the Centers for
tated interagency cooperation and coordination USDA Group Honor Awards for Excellence and
Epidemiology and Animal Health (CEAH) in
needed to develop a national surveillance sys-
Fort Collins, CO. There, as a member of the
tem for WNV, and coordinated a large epidemi- CEAH in 1992. He has also published numer-
Center for Emerging Issues, he developed and
ologic (case-control) study of WNV in horses in
ous peer reviewed articles and delivered multi-
implemented the initial stages of a national
the northeast United States. In 2001, Randy
ple presentations at national and international
emerging animal health issues identification
spent several weeks in the United Kingdom
meetings and symposiums.
and analysis system. Randy also was part of a
assisting in the response to an outbreak of
multidisciplinary team that assessed emerging
FMD.
issues related to highly pathogenic avian influ-
In 2004, Dr. Crom became the Director for
"Outstanding Employee" at USDA-APHIS-VS-
We wish Randy a prosperous and pleasant
retirement. He and his wife, Julie, will continue
to live in Washington, DC, at least until Julie
enza, E. coli O157:H7, bovine spongiform en-
Preparedness and Incident Coordination on the decides she is also ready to retire. They are
cephalopathy, and foot-and-mouth disease
Emergency Management staff for VS in
looking forward to spending more time with
(FMD).
Riverdale, MD. In that position, he led a staff
family and friends around the country and trav-
of six professionals in: coordinating the re-
eling to beaches and scuba diving sites around
In 1997, VS selected Dr. Crom for a secondment to the World Health Organization’s
sponse to a detection of BSE in Texas in 2005; the world.
(WHO) Department of Communicable Disease
assisting with the USDA response to an inter-
Surveillance and Response in Geneva, Swit-
national epizootic of avian influenza H5N1; and
Page 8
July 2014
USDA Announces Funding, Issues Federal Order to Combat PEDv
Washington, D.C., June 5, 2014
strengthen the response to PEDv and these
In response to the other viruses and help us lessen the impact to
report all cases of PEDv and other new swine
enteric coronavirus diseases to USDA and
significant impact
producers, which ultimately benefit the consum- State animal health officials. The industry is
porcine epidemic
ers who have seen store pork prices rise by
already seeing herds previously impacted by
diarrhea virus
almost 10 percent in the past year."
the virus become re-infected, and routine and
(PEDv) and porcine
The $26.2 million will be used for a variety of
standard disease reporting will help identify the
deltacoronavirus
activities to support producers and combat
magnitude of the disease in the United States
(PDCoV) are having
these diseases, including:
and can help determine whether additional
on U.S. pork producers, the United States De-

partment of Agriculture (USDA) today an-
$3.9 million to be used by USDA’s Agricul- actions are needed.
The Federal Order also requires that operatural Research Service (ARS) to support the
nounced $26.2 million in funding to combat
development of vaccines
tions reporting these viruses work with their
these diseases. Additionally, USDA issued a

veterinarian or USDA or State animal health
Federal Order requiring the reporting of new
detections of these viruses to its Animal and
Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) or
State animal health officials.
These viruses do not pose any risk to human
health or food safety, and they are commonly
detected in countries around the world.
"In the last year, industry has estimated
PEDv has killed some 7 million piglets and
caused tremendous hardship for many American pork producers," said Agriculture Secretary
Vilsack. "The number of market-ready hogs
this summer could fall by more than 10 percent
relative to 2013 because of PEDv. Together
with industry and our State partners, the steps
we will take through the Federal Order will
$2.4 million to cooperative agreement
funding for States to support management and
control activities

$500,000 to herd veterinarians to help
with development and monitoring of herd management plans and sample collection

$11.1 million in cost-share funding for
producers of infected herds to support biosecurity practices.

$2.4 million for diagnostic testing
$1.5 million to National Animal Health Laboratory Network diagnostic laboratories for genomic sequencing for newly positive herds
APHIS’ Federal Order requires producers,
veterinarians, and diagnostic laboratories to
officials to develop and implement a reasonable management plan to address the detected
virus and prevent its spread. Plans will be
based on industry-recommended best practices, and include disease monitoring through
testing and biosecurity measures. These steps
will help to reduce virus shed in affected animals, prevent further spread of the disease,
and enable continued movement of animals for
production and processing.
The international animal health governing
body, the OIE, believes that cases of PEDv and
these other swine enteric coronavirus diseases
shouldn’t be the basis for countries to restrict
exports of pork and pork products from the U.S.
European Union: Commission proposes temporary import requirements
on live pigs from North America
June 6, 2014
Temporary safeguard measures to allow for
the safe imports of live pigs from the US and
Canada have today been endorsed by Member
State experts.
Live pigs from these countries entering the
circulating in North America affecting pigs and
used for feeding piglets. The Commission has
causing major losses particularly to the US pig
also asked the European Food Safety Authority
industry.
to carry out a scientific opinion on emerging
The USA and Canada are authorised to
PED viruses that will enable a more thorough
export live pigs to the EU - 900 pigs with a high
review of the disease situation and risk mitiga-
genetic value were imported in 2013.
tion measures. Member States were also re-
EU will be tested for Porcine Epidemic Diar-
These measures follow discussions held last
minded of the need to strengthen biosecurity at
rhoea (PED) in order to protect a thriving Euro-
week during the World Assembly of the World
farm level.
pean pig industry (22 million tons of pig meat
Organization for Animal Health and comple-
Source: EC/ European Union. http://europa.eu/
produced each year, 13% of which are export-
ment temporary import requirements agreed
rapid
ed) from infection. Emerging PED viruses are
last month on pig blood products that may be
Management is doing things right; leadership is doing the right things.
- Peter Drucker
Federal Veterinarian
Page 9
Confirmed Variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (variant CJD) Case in Texas
June 2, 2014
Laboratory tests have confirmed a diagnosis
tients have been reported, with a majority of
details of the patient's history, including the
them in the United Kingdom (177 cases) and
potential source of infection.
of variant CJD (a fatal brain disorder) in a pa-
France (27 cases). This case is the fourth to be
tient who recently died in Texas. The confirma-
reported in the United States. In each of the
by the BSE agent, occurs worldwide, including
A classic form of CJD, which is not caused
tion was made when laboratory results from an
three previous cases, infection likely occurred
in the United States. Annually, for every 1 mil-
autopsy of the patient’s brain tested positive for outside the United States, including the United
lion people in the United States, 1 to 2 devel-
variant CJD.
ops classic CJD.
Kingdom (2 cases) and Saudi Arabia (1 case).
First described in 1996 in the United King-
The history of this fourth patient, including ex-
Content source: Centers for
dom, variant CJD is a rare, degenerative, fatal
tensive travel to Europe and the Middle East,
Disease Control and Preven-
brain disorder in humans. It is believed to be
supports the likelihood that infection occurred
tion, National Center for
caused by consumption of products from cows
outside the United States.
Emerging and Zoonotic Infec-
with the disease bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE, or "mad cow" disease).
Worldwide, more than 220 variant CJD pa-
CDC assisted the Texas Department of State tious Diseases (NCEZID) , Division of HighHealth Services (DSHS)'s investigation of this
Consequence Pathogens and Pathology
case and will continue to help confirm further
(DHCPP)
Letter to NAFV from Kevin Shea, Administrator APHIS
June 9, 2014
Dear Dr. Gilsdorf:
Thank you for your recent letter to me and Under Secretary Edward Avalos on behalf of the National Association of Federal Veterinarians
(NAFV) offering assistance in improving employee engagement methods at the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS).
APHIS values its longstanding relation ship with NAFV and your continuing efforts as part of the Talent Management Advisory Committee
and your discussions with our Veterinary Services (VS) program regarding local management consultations. I understand VS leadership is in
communication with you regarding your suggestions, and I look forward to our taking advantage of your expertise and perspectives as we
work to better engage our employees.
Last year, as you know, the Agency conducted a Pulse Survey of all employees to help us understand the root causes for low scores on
the Federal Employee Viewpoint Survey, especially in areas related to senior leadership. As a result, we have increased our commitment to
improving our direct communication with employees. This includes providing employees with a better understanding of our goals, priorities,
and decision making; recognizing their individual and team achievements; and soliciting their input. I have also visited field offices throughout
the country to talk with small groups of employees and have heard many of their ideas and concerns; more such visits are planned in the future.
I am confident that all of these initiatives-including your organization's efforts-in conjunction with the Agency's existing mentoring and
coaching programs, leadership development classes, and other activities will benefit our employees. APHIS is committed to providing employees with the tools to take charge of their own career development and growth, and we always welcome suggestions on specific measures
to improve morale and work experiences .
Again, I thank you for your interest in our employees and I look forward to continued collaboration on this and other issues of mutual importance .
Sincerely,
Kevin Shea, Administrator
Page 10
July 2014
Obituaries
Robert “Dale” Angus,was born in American Falls, Idaho, to Stephen Robert and Afton (Parker) Angus. Dale was
raised in Orland, CA on a dairy farm operated by his father and uncles. He attended University of California at Davis
where graduated with both a Bachelor’s of Science and Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine.
Following graduation, he moved to Fort Collins, Colorado, for the large animal residency program. In 1957, he moved
to Pocatello, Idaho, for the USDA as an area veterinarian. While in Pocatello, he met and married June Wheeler.
The couple then moved to Boise where Dale was the area epidemiologist for the USDA. Their first son, Stephen Wade,
was born while they were in Boise. A short time later they moved to Minneapolis, Minnesota for Dale to pursue his Master’s of Public Health at the University of Minnesota. It was in Minneapolis that their daughter, Jyll, joined the family. A
couple of years later, they moved to Ames, Iowa where Dale was employed at the USDA National Animal Disease Cen-
ter.
In 1964 Dale joined the National Association of Federal Veterinarians, he remained a member through his retirement. It was in Ames that they
spent the next 23 years and were blessed with three additional sons, Scot Alan, Ryan Dee, and Jeff Davis. Dale and June raised their family in
Ames. Upon Dale’s retirement, they moved to Bancroft, Idaho where they currently reside.
Survivors include his wife, Vivien June (Wheeler) Angus of Bancroft, Idaho; son, Stephen Wade (Heidi) Angus of Scarsdale, New York; daughter
Jyll (Gary) Kern of Soda Springs, Idaho; son, Jeff Davis (Ola) Angus of Kuwait City, Kuwait and daughter-in-law Dawn Angus of Ankeny, Iowa. He
is also survived by eleven grandchildren; Alexandra, Jake, Justin, Haley, Brandon, Reagan, Colton, Zack, Luke, Bodie, and Janna. He was preceded in death by his parents, and two sons, Scot Alan Angus and Ryan Dee Angus.
Funeral services occurred on Monday, May 5th, 2014, at 12:00 noon at the Bancroft LDS Church in Bancroft, Idaho. Interment was at Ames
Municipal Cemetery in Ames, Iowa on Wednesday, May 7, 2014 at Noon.
(continued from page 1, Retirement Planning)
schedule and you retire either on Thursday,
your life.
Jan. 1, Friday, Jan. 2 or Saturday, Jan. 3, 2015, End of the Leave Year
this is a better day than May 31 (unless you
your first CSRS retirement payment would be
need the extra day of service to increase your
due on Feb. 1 and would represent 29/30,
month of the year, but you’ve probably noticed
creditable service by another month)
28/30 or 27/30 of the January payment. Of
how many federal retirements occur at the end







Tuesday, June 30
these dates, the better date for retirement
of the year. The reason is that by retiring at the
Friday, July 31: First week of leave period
would be Friday, Jan. 2, because your final
end of the leave year, you can maximize your
salary would be paid through close of business
annual leave lump sum payment.
Monday, Aug. 31
Wed., Sept. 30
Saturday, Oct. 31: End of a leave period
Monday, Nov. 30
Thursday, Dec. 31
CSRS: Three Extra Days
on that day. If you retire on Saturday, Jan. 3,
The principles above can be applied to any
In most cases, carry-over annual leave is
you would not be paid any additional salary
limited to 240 hours. During the year, your
since it isn’t a regular work day.
balance of annual leave can exceed that limit,
The only exception to this rule would be if
as long as you don’t carry over more than 240
you needed an extra day or two to make anoth- hours into the next leave year. If you retire
er month of service. For example, if you have
For those under the Civil Service Retirement 35 years, 6 months and 29 days of service
before the new leave year begins and you don’t
use any of the leave you accrued during the
System, the last day of a month is a good day
(including your unused sick leave credit) on
final year of your employment, it’s possible to
to retire, just as it is for those under FERS. But
Jan. 2, then it would pay to retire on Jan. 3 to
have a leave balance of 448 hours (240 carried
those in CSRS (and CSRS Offset) have a little
earn another day of service credit which would
over plus 208 earned at the rate of eight hours
more flexibility, because they get a three-day
increase the service used to compute your
per leave period). This balance is then multi-
grace period every month.
retirement to 35 years, 7 months and 0 days.
plied by your hourly pay rate (your annual sala-
If you retire on the first, second, or third day of
Your retirement is computed on whole years
ry divided by 2,087) and sent to you in a lump
the month, your CSRS retirement benefit will
and months. Any leftover days (less than 30)
sum payment (minus tax withholding.) There
begin the next day and you will not forfeit that
are dropped off. One month of retired pay is
are no retirement contributions or insurance
month’s benefit. Your first retirement payment
worth 1/12 of 2 percent of your high-three aver-
premiums withheld from this payment.
for that month would be prorated to be 29/30,
age salary per year. So it might be worth losing
28/30 or 27/30 of the first month’s payment.
a day of retired pay to increase your retirement
For example, if you work a Monday-Friday
benefit by a few dollars a month for the rest of
Source: Government Executive
Federal Veterinarian
Page 11
FEDS Professional Liability Insurance covers the exposures that make
Federal Veterinarians vulnerable to:
· Administrative Investigations · Disciplinary Actions ·
· State Veterinary Medical Board Investigations and
Proceedings arising out of the performance of your federal duties ·
· Civil Lawsuits · Criminal Investigations ·
Our coverage is available for $290 per year,
some veterinarians (and all veterinarians
classified as managers & supervisors) are
eligible for reimbursement up to half the cost
for a net premium of $145 per year. See your
HR representative today!
Don't wait until it's too late!
You must be a current policy holder prior to
the claim, allegation, investigation or suit
filed against you in your federal job duties - in
order for coverage to apply.
There is a reason this coverage is available and affordable to all federal employees.
Obtaining counsel or representation experienced in federal matters - after a claim is made against you - will cost many multiples of our annual premium!
Whether you're eligible for reimbursement or not - get protected!
Call the NAFV or visit our website at www.fedsprotection.com for more information or to enroll today!
You can even enroll by phone at 866-955-FEDS with payroll deduction available.
Have you asked fellow veterinarians if they are members of NAFV?
Do you have an application to join?
These documents can also be found at our website www.nafv.org under membership. NAFV can send you an application and withholding form (if applicable) electronically by emailing [email protected].
FSIS Nonmembers-Appointments To Be Recruited
Dr. Craig Hummel, Decatur, AL
Dr. William Isle, Beardstown, IL
Dr. Kari Johnstone, Mount Pleasant, TX
Dr. Danielle Johnson, Tar Heel, NC
Dr. Maggie Boerner, Brush, CO
Dr. Thomas Flynn, Hillsdale, MI
Dr. Williams Heath, Canton, OH
Dr. Thomas Secor, Sioux Falls, SD
Dr. Craig Brininger, Altamont, NY
Dr. Tiffany Cable, Sumter, SC
Dr. Nicole Tyler, Harrisonburg, VA
Dr. Larrina Williams, Douglas, GA
Dr. Lorenzo Bandini, Gainesville, GA
Dr. Randal Daniels, Colorado Springs, CO
Dr. Kelly Mowell, Green Bay, WI
Dr. Tempora Fisher, Washington, DC Dr. Meryl Silverman, Washington, DC
APHIS Nonmembers-Appointments To Be Recruited
Dr. Debbie Cunningham, Arcadia, OK
Dr. Christina Der, Flowood, MS
Dr. John Hunt Jr., Washington, MO
Dr. Aaron Rhyner, Chandler, AZ
Dr. Amanda White, Hawthorne, CA
Dr. Mary Gessert, Fountain, FL
Dr. Kathleen Kral, Jacksonville, FL
Dr. Maura Gibson, Ontario, CA
Dr. Kathleen Turner, Miami, FL
Dr. Brent Cassady, Conyers, GA
Dr. Dyrk Schlingman, Oregon City, OR
Page 12
July 2014
members not listed in the “Veterinary Happenings” column so they may be included
in a future issue. The following information was received by NAFV.
USDA FSIS Members
(Information available next month)
USDA APHIS Members
Dr. Kathleen Akin, GS 14, Lincoln, NE, retirement, 5/31/14
Dr. Randall Crom, GS 14, Riverdale, MD, retirement, 5/31/14
National Association of Federal Veterinarians
Notify NAFV of Promotions, Reassignments, Transfers, Awards, Retirements, etc. for
1910 Sunderland Place
Washington, DC 20036
Veterinary Happenings
Dr. Judy Davis, GS 12, Ogden, UT, retirement, 5/31/14
at Washington, DC
Dr. Leslie Tull, FSIS, band 4, TUS, Philadelphia, PA
Dr. Katrina Fox, FSIS, band 4, KSU ‘08, Liberal, KS
Dr. Ron Baughman, FSIS, GS 12, CSU ‘88, Golden, CO
Periodicals postage paid
Welcome New Members
Email Changes of Address to:
[email protected]
Returned Checks
NAFV charges $10.00 for checks
returned for insufficient funds
REMINDER!
Please remember to send NAFV your updated mailing address and/or personal e-mail
address. We use this information to keep YOU informed, so please keep us in the know.
Also, send us any other updated information we might need in your membership profile.
You can do this by going to nafv.org and signing into the members-only section of the
website.
Then, simply fill out a membership application containing the updated information.
Updates can also be sent to :
[email protected]