HC3 Issues Venus Ransomware Warning; CDC Investigates Listeria Outbreak

November 15, 2022 - Last week, the Health Sector Cybersecurity Coordination Center (HC3) warned organizations to watch for a new ransomware variant that emerged in August and has already affected one healthcare organization. Meanwhile, a team at the CDC is investigating what has become a deadly nationwide listeria outbreak.

HC3 Identifies Venus Ransomware Variant

The HC3 shared new information concerning the Venus ransomware, which has been active since August 2022. In an analyst notification, HC3 announced that at least one entity had fallen victim to the ransomware. It recommended that organizations remain vigilant and implement recovery plans and multi-factor authentication on their devices.

“The ransomware uses a wide variety of contact email addresses and TOX IDs, indicating it is likely that multiple threat actors are distributing the ransomware,” the notification added. READ MORE.

CDC Investigates Nationwide Listeria Outbreak

The CDC is investigating a deadly listeria outbreak that has infected 16 individuals and left one dead. Infections spanning six states have been linked to deli meats and cheeses, with the earliest infection reported on September 29. CDC officials estimate that the actual number of cases is much higher than reported. Experts suggest that people heat deli meats and cheeses to 165 degrees Fahrenheit to avoid illness and report any suspected listeria infections.

“Among the seven sick people in New York, five bought sliced deli meat or cheese from at least one location of NetCost Market, a grocery store chain that sells international foods. Sick people from other states purchased deli meats or cheeses from other delis,” stated the CDC in its investigation. READ MORE.

Biden Admin Urged to Address Emergency Department Boarding

Industry groups, including the American Medical Association, American College of Emergency Physicians, and over 30 other organizations, urged the Biden Administration to address the growing problem of emergency department boarding. In a letter to President Biden, the coalition described the added stress created by emergency department boarding and suggested that the President assemble a summit of healthcare stakeholders to develop solutions. The organization responsible for the letter cited misaligned financial incentives and overcrowding as factors contributing to the crisis. READ MORE.

States Vote to Expand Medicaid in Midterms

A South Dakota ballot measure to expand Medicaid succeeded last Tuesday. The expansion will add 40,000 Medicaid-eligible people starting in 2023. Voters also chose to protect abortion rights in several states during this year’s midterm elections. READ MORE.

US to Renew COVID-19 Public Health Emergency

The Biden Administration will extend the COVID-19 public health emergency through January, preparing for the possibility of a winter surge in cases. Extending the emergency will allow Americans to receive free vaccines, tests, and treatments. Officials have promised to give states 60 days’ notice when they prepare to end the public health emergency.

"The biggest motivation from a policy perspective is ensuring a smooth transition to the commercial market and the challenge of unraveling the multiple protections that have been put in place," said Dr. Jen Kates, senior vice president at the Kaiser Family Foundation, according to Reuters. READ MORE.