LATEST NEWS HIGHLIGHTS
Measles Cases are Rising in U.S. as Texas Outbreak Grows
A growing measles outbreak in Texas has reached 48 cases, all among unvaccinated individuals, marking the state’s largest outbreak in over 30 years. With cases now appearing in neighboring states, public health experts warn of further spread, especially among undervaccinated populations. Vaccine hesitancy and rising exemption rates contribute to increased susceptibility, echoing national trends of declining childhood immunization.
Experts stress that measles, one of the most contagious diseases, remains preventable through the highly effective MMR vaccine. Addressing misinformation and fostering open conversations about vaccine safety are key to protecting public health and preventing future outbreaks. Read more from ABC here.
AIM Toolkit: Shingles Awareness Week
Shingles Awareness Week 2025 (Feb. 24–March 2) aims to correct misconceptions about shingles risk and encourage vaccination. While over 90% of adults 50+ carry the virus, only 7% recognize their high risk, despite one in three developing shingles in their lifetime.
Public health communicators can use this opportunity to educate communities on prevention. AIM has developed customizable, unbranded social media messages for organizations to share, helping to amplify awareness. By leveraging these resources, public health professionals can drive informed decision-making and promote vaccination as a key strategy in reducing shingles-related complications. Learn more and access materials to support this initiative. Find social media toolkits from AIM here.
Navigating Funding Challenges: Adapting Public Health Research in a Changing Landscape
Federal restrictions on diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) language are creating challenges for public health researchers seeking funding. Agencies like the NSF are flagging terms such as “inequality” and “disparities,” forcing scholars to reframe proposals while maintaining scientific integrity. Strategies include focusing on geographic and economic factors instead of identity groups, emphasizing health system performance, and using neutral, technical language.
Shifting from advocacy-driven wording to data-focused research ensures compliance while preserving critical public health work. Aligning studies with economic growth, workforce development, and healthcare efficiency can further safeguard funding. Adapting language strategically allows researchers to continue advancing health equity without compromising impact. Read more from This Week in Public Health here.
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U.S. Pays $590 Million to Moderna to Speed up Development of Bird Flu Vaccine
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has committed $590 million to Moderna to accelerate the development of a bird flu vaccine. This effort builds on $176 million awarded last year and aims to advance late-stage development, clinical studies, and licensure of a "pandemic influenza vaccine" targeting H5N1 and other influenza subtypes.
With bird flu rapidly spreading among livestock and mammals, and 67 confirmed human cases—including one death—public health officials emphasize the unpredictability of the virus. The CDC recently issued an alert urging hospitals to prioritize testing for suspected infections, reinforcing the urgency of proactive measures to mitigate potential public health emergencies. Read more from NPR here.
Raging California Wildfires May Spread Toxic Asbestos
As wildfires ravage Southern California, thousands are at risk of exposure to toxic asbestos. Older buildings, particularly those built before 1980, often contain asbestos, which can be released into the air as fires destroy structures. The dry conditions and high winds exacerbate the spread of these dangerous fibers, potentially affecting people far from the flames.
Asbestos exposure can lead to severe respiratory issues and cancers, including mesothelioma. Public health experts stress the importance of protective measures like wearing respirators and using air purifiers to reduce exposure. Cleaning up fire-damaged areas also requires caution to prevent inhalation of asbestos-contaminated debris. Read more from Asbestos.com here.
CDC Monitors Rising HMPV Cases in China, U.S. Cases Remain Stable
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is monitoring rising cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) in northern China, though U.S. cases remain stable at pre-pandemic levels. HMPV, a respiratory virus first discovered in 2001, typically circulates during flu season, causing symptoms similar to the common cold, such as coughing, wheezing, and congestion. It can lead to severe illness in young children, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems.
While no vaccines or treatments exist, the CDC emphasizes preventive measures, including handwashing and avoiding close contact with infected individuals. The CDC continues to monitor U.S. HMPV trends and will update the public if necessary. Read more from The Hill here.
Louisiana Forbids Public Health Workers from Promoting COVID, Flu and Mpox Shots
Louisiana's Department of Health has implemented a policy prohibiting public health workers from promoting COVID-19, flu, and mpox vaccines. Staff were instructed to stop advertising vaccines, hosting events, or sharing information about them, even within clinics. The policy, not put in writing, contradicts the core mission of public health: preventing illness and saving lives through evidence-based interventions.
Experts warn this decision could erode trust in public health and increase preventable illnesses and deaths. With Louisiana already experiencing high flu rates and significant COVID-19 fatalities, this shift highlights the critical importance of advocacy and clear communication in protecting public health outcomes. Read more from NPR here.
