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Silent Measles Spread in US Threatens Elimination Status

Silent Measles Spread in US Threatens Elimination Status

Newer testing methods have revealed a significant silent spread of measles in the United States, particularly in Utah and Arizona, threatening the country's measles elimination status. Reports indicate that measles cases have topped 1,700 in the first four months of the year, with a major outbreak in a community spanning northern Arizona and southern Utah. The outbreak, which has grown to over 600 reported cases, is linked to low vaccination rates and distrust in vaccines within certain communities. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is using molecular evidence to trace the origins and true size of the outbreak, which may have started much earlier than initially reported.

U.S. Anti-HIV Efforts Face Criticism Amid New Data Release

U.S. Anti-HIV Efforts Face Criticism Amid New Data Release

The release of new data on the U.S. President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) has sparked differing interpretations regarding its effectiveness. PEPFAR, a program initiated by President George W. Bush in 2003, is credited with saving millions of lives through HIV diagnosis and treatment. The recent data, released after a delay, highlights an increase in the number of pregnant and breastfeeding women starting PrEP, a preventive medication, from 43,000 in late 2024 to 103,000 in late 2025. However, advocacy groups like Health GAP and amfAR have raised concerns about significant disruptions in HIV testing and support services, suggesting a decline in the program's effectiveness. The State Department, however, emphasizes the resilience of U.S. health programs, noting that over 20 million people received HIV treatment in 50 countries by September 2025.

CDC Reports Doubling of Norovirus Cases in the U.S. Since August

CDC Reports Doubling of Norovirus Cases in the U.S. Since August

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported a significant increase in norovirus cases across the United States, with the rate of positive tests doubling since August. As of the most recent data, nearly 14% of tests for norovirus have returned positive, compared to approximately 7% three months ago. Norovirus, often referred to as the 'stomach bug,' is a highly contagious virus and the leading cause of viral gastroenteritis in the U.S. It is responsible for 58% of foodborne illnesses annually. The virus causes symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, and diarrhea, and typically resolves within one to three days in healthy adults. The CDC emphasizes the importance of handwashing with soap and water to prevent the spread of the virus, as hand sanitizers are not effective against it.

US CDC will not publish report showing COVID vaccine effectiveness

US CDC will not publish report showing COVID vaccine effectiveness

By Christy Santhosh April 22 (Reuters) - A report showing the efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines has been blocked from being published in the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's flagship scientific journal, a spokesperson from the Department of Health and Human Services said on Wednesday.

New CDC director will be allowed to make her own decisions, Kennedy tells US Senate panel

New CDC director will be allowed to make her own decisions, Kennedy tells US Senate panel

By Ahmed Aboulenein WASHINGTON, April 22 (Reuters) - U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. told senators on Wednesday that if Erica Schwartz is confirmed as director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, she will have the ability to make decisions on vaccines independently.

RFK Jr. is facing the Senate. One lawmaker's competing loyalties are on display

RFK Jr. is facing the Senate. One lawmaker's competing loyalties are on display

A Republican senator juggling three roles — lawmaker, doctor and political candidate seeking reelection — has walked a fine line as he questioned Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Sen. Bill Cassidy supported Kennedy's confirmation as health secretary but is a strong vaccine advocate and has clashed with him over vaccine policies

Vaccines, budget cuts and affordability: Takeaways from RFK Jr’s gauntlet of congressional hearings

Vaccines, budget cuts and affordability: Takeaways from RFK Jr’s gauntlet of congressional hearings

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has concluded a marathon of budget hearings with federal lawmakers

US health officials nix publication of a study on COVID vaccine effectiveness

US health officials nix publication of a study on COVID vaccine effectiveness

U.S. health officials have stopped the publication of a study on the COVID-19 vaccine's effectiveness in preventing hospitalizations

U.S. Health Officials Halt Publication of COVID Vaccine Effectiveness Study Amid Methodology Dispute

U.S. Health Officials Halt Publication of COVID Vaccine Effectiveness Study Amid Methodology Dispute

U.S. health officials have stopped the publication of a study on the effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines in preventing hospitalizations. The study was set to be published in the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report. The decision was made due to concerns about the study's methodology, which involved comparing the odds of a positive COVID-19 test among vaccinated and unvaccinated patients admitted to hospitals or emergency rooms. This approach has been used in other reputable journals, but officials argue that factors like prior infection and patient behavior could affect results. The study had concluded that vaccines reduced ER visits and hospitalizations by about half among healthy adults during the past winter.

Moderna Begins Trial of mRNA Vaccine for H5N1 Bird Flu in US and UK

Moderna Begins Trial of mRNA Vaccine for H5N1 Bird Flu in US and UK

Moderna has initiated a pivotal trial for its mRNA-based vaccine targeting the H5N1 bird flu strain, with the trial taking place in both the United States and the United Kingdom. The vaccine, known as mRNA-1018, is designed to combat a new strain of the influenza virus that has significantly impacted bird populations and livestock globally, while also being responsible for hundreds of human fatalities. The trial aims to assess the vaccine's safety and immunogenicity in approximately 4,000 healthy adults aged 18 and older. This development highlights the potential of mRNA technology to revolutionize pandemic responses, building on the success of mRNA vaccines during the COVID-19 pandemic. The trial is particularly focused on recruiting participants from the poultry industry and individuals over 65, who are considered most at risk.

Senate Finance Committee Questions Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. on Health Budget

Senate Finance Committee Questions Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. on Health Budget

The Senate Finance Committee is currently reviewing President Trump's budget request for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. faced rigorous questioning during the initial part of the hearing, which took place on Tuesday. The discussions focused on various topics, including access to birth control pills. This review is part of the broader scrutiny of the administration's health policies and budget allocations, reflecting ongoing debates over healthcare priorities and funding in the U.S.

Pentagon Makes Flu Shots Optional for U.S. Troops as Season Ends

Pentagon Makes Flu Shots Optional for U.S. Troops as Season Ends

The Pentagon has announced that flu shots are now optional for U.S. troops, reversing a previous service-wide requirement. This decision comes as the flu season has largely ended, with cases declining according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The change is effective immediately, aligning with the broader availability of annual flu vaccines for individuals aged six months and older. The move reflects a shift in policy as the immediate threat of flu diminishes.