LATEST NEWS HIGHLIGHTS
Listen Up” Podcast: Harnessing AI for the Future of Public Health Communication
Explore how AI is set to revolutionize health communication in the latest episode of CDC’s podcast, Listen Up!, featuring Robert Jennings, Executive Director of the National Public Health Information Coalition. This episode dives into the transformative potential of AI for public health professionals, from delivering rapid solutions to improving communication strategies.
Experts discuss how to navigate the complexities of AI, including potential risks and the need for digital fluency in an evolving landscape. Tune in to learn which AI applications hold the most promise for public health communicators and how to prepare for this shift. Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pandora, or through your RSS feed reader. See more information here.
November: Raising Awareness for Alzheimer’s Disease and Supporting Family Caregivers
November marks both National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month and National Family Caregivers Month, highlighting crucial public health topics. Public health professionals are encouraged to leverage partner toolkits to educate communities about Alzheimer's—focusing on early detection and adopting healthy habits that can reduce risks. Additionally, resources are available to support family caregivers, raising awareness about caregiving challenges and promoting caregiver well-being.
These toolkits provide content for social media, newsletters, presentations, and websites, making it easy to spread awareness. Engaging with these resources can amplify understanding and foster a supportive environment for those affected by Alzheimer’s and their caregivers. For more information, access the toolkits here and here.
More Cases Reported in E. coli Outbreak Linked to McDonald’s Quarter Pounders
An outbreak of E. coli linked to McDonald’s Quarter Pounders has escalated, with the CDC reporting 75 total illnesses across 13 states, including three newly affected states: Michigan, New Mexico, and Washington. Twelve additional hospitalizations have raised the total to 22, which includes a death in Colorado and serious complications in some patients.
Investigators are focusing on fresh slivered onions and beef patties as potential sources, prompting Taylor Farms to recall onions supplied to impacted locations. While the CDC currently assesses the public risk as low, individuals experiencing severe E. coli symptoms are advised to seek medical attention. Read more from the CDC here.
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Apple Cider Warning: Health Officials Urge Consumers to be Careful
Health officials are urging caution when consuming unpasteurized apple cider, a popular fall beverage, as it poses health risks, especially for vulnerable populations. Unpasteurized cider may contain harmful bacteria that can cause serious illness or even death, particularly in children, older adults, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems.
The FDA reports that while most juice in the U.S. is pasteurized, unpasteurized versions sold at orchards, farmers’ markets, and roadside stands may lack warning labels. Consumers are advised to check for pasteurization or ask vendors if unsure, to reduce the risk of foodborne illness from untreated juice or cider. Read more from USA Today here.
What Happened to All the Health Inspectors in New York City?
The New York City Department of Health (DOH) faces staffing shortages, leading to delayed health inspections, which worries many restaurant owners. Currently, only about 66 percent of the city's 27,000 food establishments were inspected between July 2023 and June 2024, down from 83 percent the previous year.
The DOH attributes this to a 20 percent drop in public health inspectors since COVID-19. Restaurant owners describe long waits and increased uncertainty surrounding inspections, with some waiting nearly two years. The staffing challenges leave both new and long-established businesses in a state of limbo, heightening anxiety around food safety compliance and public health. Read more from Grub Street here.
FDA Approves First Self-Administered Flu Vaccine
The FDA has approved the first self-administered flu vaccine, offering a new option to increase flu vaccination accessibility. Adults can now administer FluMist, a nasal spray vaccine, at home without a healthcare provider present. This option may help address the decline in flu vaccination rates, which fell below 50% during the 2022-2023 season.
Available for those aged 2 to 49, FluMist provides a convenient alternative to traditional flu shots. However, individuals must still obtain a prescription, and vaccines will be delivered directly to homes. This innovation could enhance public health efforts by improving access to seasonal flu prevention. Read more from The Hill here.
CDC Recommends The 2024-2025 COVID-19 Vaccine for Everyone Aged 6 Months and Older
The CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommends the 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccine for everyone aged 6 months and older. This updated vaccine targets the evolving virus, addressing the waning protection from prior vaccination and infection.
COVID-19 continues to cause significant hospitalizations and deaths weekly in the U.S., and the vaccine remains crucial, particularly for those at higher risk, including individuals 65 and older, those in long-term care facilities, people with underlying conditions, and pregnant individuals. ACIP’s recommendations, grounded in evidence on vaccine safety, effectiveness, and equity, will be reassessed as new data emerges, ensuring ongoing protection for all. Read more from the CDC here.
