September 04, 2009

Chapare virus

On August 19, 2009, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) published in the Federal Register a notice proposing to add Chapare virus to the list of HHS select agents and toxins found at 42 CFR 73.3. We are proposing this action because Chapare virus has been phylogenetically identified as a Clade B arenavirus that is closely related to other currently regulated South American arenaviruses that cause haemorrhagic fever, particularly Sabia virus. Risk assessments conducted by arenavirus experts at CDC have resulted in the determination that the manipulation of Chapare virus should be performed only under maximum containment conditions in BSL4 laboratories. Based on these assessments, and the corresponding need to protect public health and safety, CDC has published a proposal to add this agent to the HHS list of select agents and toxins.

Written comments on the proposed addition of Chapare virus to the list of HHS select agents and toxins will be accepted until October 19, 2009. The comments should be marked "Comments on Chapare virus" and mailed to: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Division of Select Agents and Toxins, 1600 Clifton Road, MS A-46, Atlanta, GA 30333. Comments may also be e-mailed to: SAPcomments@cdc.gov.

Chapare FRN (PDF Format)