Since last October, thousands of fish and other seafood have become infected with red lesions and open sores that eventually results in death from the unknown disorder. This unique request comes at a time when workers have shown possible signs of some kind of exposure. Although a link has not been established between the fish illnesses and that suffered by humans, the possibility of a connection has not been ruled out. Studies of the fish,water quality testing and other marine disease research have been ongoing since the initial discovery, however the possibility of a human health risk prompted the senators to immediately enlist NIH's expertise and resources to find the source of the disorder. The mystery disorder seems to resemble Pfiesteria piscicida , a type of toxic algae that is attracted by fish secretions and targets certain kinds of freshwater creatures.
Some evidence suggests that such toxic algae blooms are on the increase worldwide.
Now in its 21st year, the special lecture series Medicine for the Public opens this fall on Tuesday, September 23rd. This year's lecture topics include Multiple Sclerosis, Vision and Aging, Genetics of Lung Disease, Hormones, Menopause and Heart Disease and new information on Bone Marrow Transplants. The lectures will be held in the Clinical Center's Masur Auditorium. Overflow seating will be upstairs on the 14th floor. There is ample parking in the evenings.