LATEST NEWS HIGHLIGHTS
Finding Health Advice on Social Media is Easier Than Knowing Which Claims to Trust
Misinformation about health and wellness is rampant on social media, with influencers promoting everything from “nature’s Ozempic” to IV drip bars—often with little scientific backing. A recent study in JAMA found that many social media posts about popular medical tests were misleading and financially motivated. Experts warn that influencers prioritize engagement over accuracy, leading to the spread of unverified health claims.
Public health communicators play a critical role in countering misinformation by promoting evidence-based guidance, encouraging media literacy, and emphasizing trusted sources. As social media continues to shape health narratives, strengthening public trust in credible health information is more important than ever. Read more from AP here.
Proposed Foreign Aid Cuts Could Lead to Millions of HIV Deaths
Proposed cuts to U.S. foreign aid could reverse decades of progress in the fight against HIV/AIDS, a new Lancet HIV study warns. Researchers estimate that by 2030, up to 10.8 million new HIV infections and 2.9 million related deaths could occur in low- and middle-income countries if funding reductions proceed. The U.S. currently provides 73% of international HIV aid, primarily through PEPFAR, but recent cuts have already disrupted life-saving services.
Experts stress that without sustainable financing, the global HIV epidemic could resurge, highlighting the urgent need for continued public health investment to prevent a devastating setback in HIV prevention and treatment. Read more from CBS News here.
Health Affairs Podcast: Food, Nutrition, & Health: Water Insecurity
Water insecurity is a growing public health crisis, impacting access to safe drinking water and worsening health disparities. In the first episode of Health Affairs' special podcast series on food, nutrition, and health, Ellen Bayer speaks with Na'Taki Osborne Jelks of Spelman College about the connections between water insecurity and public health.
The conversation highlights how systemic inequities, climate change, and infrastructure challenges contribute to unsafe or insufficient water access, disproportionately affecting marginalized communities. Public health communicators play a vital role in raising awareness, advocating for policy changes, and promoting solutions to ensure equitable access to clean water. Listen to the podcast here.
FEATURED TOPICS
NPHIC’s Robert Jennings Featured on Public Health Review Morning Edition Podcast
Robert Jennings, Executive Director of the National Public Health Information Coalition (NPHIC), is shaping the future of public health communication by developing guidelines for AI use in the field. In a recent Public Health Review Morning Edition episode, Jennings highlighted the need for responsible AI integration to enhance messaging and outreach. He also provided an outlook on evolving communication strategies for pressing public health challenges, including firearm injury prevention. Meanwhile, ASTHO President Dr. Scott Harris reflected on the success of the HPAI symposium.
Public health leaders can stay engaged through ASTHO’s Public Health Weekly newsletter, featuring expert insights, policy updates, and leadership opportunities. Listen to the podcasts here.
Stay Connected with NPHIC on Social Media
NPHIC members, stay informed and engaged by following us on Facebook (@NPHICpublic), Twitter (X) (@NPHIC), and Instagram (@NPHIC_). We’re excited to highlight our new LinkedIn page, where you can find important updates on the National Conference on Health Communication, Marketing, and Media (NCHCMM). Follow us at NPHIC on LinkedIn.
We also invite you to join our exclusive closed Facebook group for members, a space for collaboration and sharing valuable information. Strengthen our community and amplify the impact of public health communications by joining today: NPHIC Member-Only Facebook Group.
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.
