LATEST NEWS HIGHLIGHTS
Spread the Word About Attending NCHCMM 2025!
Let your network know you’re attending the National Conference for Health Communication, Marketing, and Media (NCHCMM), July 28–30 in Atlanta! Share your event badge—available for attendees, presenters, sponsors, and contributors—on social media here. Just right-click, save, and post with #NCHCMM2025 to connect and build excitement.
This year’s conference highlights urgent topics like misinformation, mental health, climate justice, and vaccine communication. Sessions explore community-driven messaging, culturally tailored campaigns, and youth engagement. Hear from keynote Dr. Garth Graham, Head of YouTube Health, on the future of public health communication. Learn more at www.NCHCMM.org.
HHS Cancels Funding for Moderna Vaccines to Fight Pandemic Flu
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has canceled over $760 million in federal funding awarded to Moderna for developing mRNA-based pandemic flu vaccines, including those targeting bird flu in humans. Originally granted through BARDA to support rapid vaccine development during public health emergencies, the funding was withdrawn following a federal review.
HHS cited concerns about the safety and transparency of mRNA technology, stating it would not invest further in vaccines deemed scientifically or ethically unjustifiable. This decision underscores a major shift in federal public health strategy, raising important questions about the future use of mRNA in pandemic preparedness efforts. Read the full article from The Hill here.
PHCC Infographic Resource: Tips for a Happy and Healthy Summer
The Public Health Communication Collaborative (PHCC) offers an updated resource—Tips for a Happy and Healthy Summer—designed to help families make the most of the summer months. This guide encourages children to stay active, connect with friends and family, and build habits that support physical and mental well-being before the new school year.
It also includes a fun summer-themed bingo activity to engage kids in healthy behaviors. Available in both English and Spanish, this resource is a valuable tool for public health communicators aiming to promote wellness in their communities. Download the resource here.
FEATURED TOPICS
Don’t Miss Out: Early Bird Registration for NCHCMM 2025 Ends May 30
Public health communicators won’t want to miss NCHCMM 2025, taking place July 28–30 in Atlanta. This year’s conference will spotlight some of the most pressing issues in our field—misinformation, mental health, climate justice, and more—through bold conversations and real-world strategies. Sessions will delve into community-driven messaging, culturally tailored campaigns, youth engagement, and lessons from vaccine communication.
Attendees will also explore smarter ways to evaluate impact and drive behavior change. Keynote speaker Dr. Garth Graham, Head of YouTube Health, will share insights on the future of public health communication. Early bird registration ends May 30, and hotel discounts are available through July 18. Register here.
FDA Making Plans to End its Routine Food Safety Inspections
The FDA is reportedly exploring plans to shift most routine food safety inspections to state and local agencies—a move that could free up federal resources but raises concerns about oversight and consistency. While the FDA says inspections will continue during a reorganization period, internal sources and layoffs suggest significant changes are underway.
States already handle about one-third of routine inspections, often at lower costs, and supporters argue they meet federal standards. However, critics warn the transition could undermine national food safety, especially in states without inspection contracts. Public health leaders are watching closely, as this shift could reshape federal-state responsibilities in protecting the U.S. food supply. Read more from CBS here.
Deadliest Phase of Fentanyl Crisis Eases, As All States See Recovery
New research from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill reveals a dramatic and sustained decline in fentanyl-related overdose deaths, marking a potential turning point in the opioid crisis. According to CDC data, drug deaths have dropped by nearly 25%, with fentanyl-related fatalities decreasing by over 30% in just one year.
Experts, including Dr. Nabarun Dasgupta, suggest this trend may be long-term, with overdose deaths in some states falling to pre-pandemic levels. While the reasons remain unclear, improved access to Narcan and shifts in drug use behavior may be contributing factors. If sustained, the U.S. could return to pre-2016 overdose levels, signaling a major public health victory. Read the full story from NPR here.
New Ethical AI Guidelines: A Must-Read for Public Health Communicators
Artificial Intelligence is reshaping public health communication, and NPHIC has proudly contributed to a groundbreaking new resource: the Guidelines for the Ethical Use of AI in Public Health Communications. Developed by a diverse working group of public health and technology leaders, this initiative ensures AI is used responsibly while upholding accuracy, transparency, and equity.
Executive Director Robert Jennings and NPHIC supported this effort to provide communicators with practical, adaptable principles for integrating AI ethically. Access the short guide or full working paper here and read more about the guide here and be part of the conversation shaping the future of AI in public health!
