Most Common Pathogens in Exposure Incidents

Under the Human Pathogens and Toxins Act and Human Pathogens and Toxins Regulations, the Centre for Biosecurity’s Laboratory Incident Notification Canada gathers required information from licensed facilities on exposure incidents and the human pathogens or toxins involved.

Between January 1, 2016 and December 31, 2024, a total of 570 pathogens (representing 170 unique species) were reported in mandatory exposure incidents.

While the types of pathogens involved varied slightly over time, bacteria remained the most common (n=323; 56.9%), followed by viruses (n=127; 22.4%).

Most of the pathogens were classified as:

• Risk Group 2 (n=344; 61.0%)
• Risk Group 3 (n=206; 36.5%)
• Security sensitive biological agents (n=113; 20%)

From 2016 to 2024, the top three pathogens were:

• Neisseria meningitidis (n=41; 7.2%)
• 73 individuals were potentially exposed, mostly through inhalation (n=60; 82.2%)
• Brucella melitensis (n=37; 6.5%) (n=37; 6.5%)
• 357 individuals were potentially exposed, mostly through inhalation (n=288; 80.7%)
• Staphylococcus aureus (n=32; 5.6%)
• 27 individuals were potentially exposed, mostly through absorption via contact with skin (n=15; 55.5%)

Given that a large proportion of reported exposures involve pathogens transmissible via inhalation, it’s essential to reinforce preventive measures in facility settings. Key strategies include:

• conducting thorough risk assessments
• ensuring proper use of certified biological safety cabinets
• maintaining up-to-date training on safe microbiological practices
• consistently wearing appropriate personal protective equipment, such as N95 respirators when warranted

In cases where pathogens may be transmitted through damaged skin, additional appropriate precautions are critical. Examples of these precautions may include wearing impermeable gloves, lab coats with tight-fitting cuffs, and promptly addressing any skin abrasions or cuts with waterproof dressing before beginning lab work. By staying vigilant and proactive, personnel can reduce the risk of exposure to airborne and contact-transmissible pathogens.

Licence holders must report  any incident involving a human pathogen or toxin in their facility, without delay, if there is reason to believe that an incident has or may have caused disease in an individual. Failure to report is an offence under the Human Pathogens and Toxins Act and may result in enforcement actions, including notices of non-compliance, changes to the conditions of a licence, or prosecution, depending on the severity of the infraction.

You can explore additional biosafety and biosecurity resources on the PHAC Training Portal or review the 2023 annual report for more insight about exposure incidents.