LATEST NEWS HIGHLIGHTS
NPHIC Members to Meet CDC Regional Press Officers – Rescheduled for October 16
NPHIC members are invited to a special session on Wednesday, October 16, from 2:30-3:30 PM EST, designed to enhance collaboration between NPHIC members and CDC Regional Press Officers. This session, originally scheduled for September 27 but canceled due to Hurricane Helene, aligns with our regular monthly call on the third Wednesday of each month.
This meeting is an excellent opportunity for public health communicators to learn about CDC's newly structured media team, including introductions to the new regional press officers. Strengthening media relationships within each HHS region is crucial for streamlining communication efforts and amplifying public health messages. To join, email Laura Espino at LEspino@NPHIC.org.
FDA Declares IV Fluid Shortage in the Wake of Helene
The FDA has declared a shortage of three critical intravenous drugs—Dextrose 70% IV Solution, Lactated Ringers IV Solution, and Peritoneal Dialysis Solution—following the shutdown of Baxter International's North Carolina manufacturing plant due to Hurricane Helene. These solutions are vital for patient rehydration and support in kidney failure treatment.
The FDA's declaration allows hospital pharmacies more flexibility to prepare alternative solutions while conserving existing supplies. Baxter is working to mitigate disruptions, with full production recovery expected by year-end. In the meantime, other manufacturers are increasing output, and temporary imports from Baxter’s overseas facilities have been authorized to alleviate the crisis. Read more in The Hill here.
Researchers Begin Developing Ovarian Cancer Vaccine
Researchers in the U.K. are working on the first vaccine to prevent ovarian cancer, a groundbreaking public health development. Ovarian cancer remains hard to treat, with a survival rate of only 50% five years post-diagnosis.
The vaccine, supported by Cancer Research UK, focuses on women with BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations, who face up to a 45% lifetime risk of developing ovarian cancer. Unlike current prevention methods, which involve invasive surgeries and early menopause, this vaccine aims to train the immune system to detect and attack cancerous cells early. If successful, it could transform cancer prevention strategies globally. Read more in Forbes here.
FEATURED TOPICS
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.
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.
New Report - State of Obesity 2024: Better Policies for a Healthier America
The State of Obesity 2024: Better Policies for a Healthier America report highlights rising U.S. obesity rates, with over 35% of adults affected in 23 states. The epidemic, particularly impacting communities of color and low-income areas, is driven by limited access to healthy foods and physical activity.
Obesity-related health conditions are increasing, affecting both physical and mental well-being. The report calls for comprehensive policy changes, including increased funding for prevention programs, expanding nutrition support like SNAP, promoting healthy food environments, and improving healthcare access. Addressing obesity requires systems-level solutions that go beyond individual behaviors to target structural barriers and inequities.
CDC: Youth E-Cigarette Use Drops to Lowest Level in a Decade
The 2024 National Youth Tobacco Survey reveals a positive trend in public health: e-cigarette use among U.S. middle and high school students dropped from 7.7% to 5.9% over the past year. However, nicotine pouch use remained stable at around 1.8%.
Despite the decline in e-cigarette use, comprehensive tobacco control strategies and vigilant enforcement are essential. Nicotine products, including e-cigarettes and pouches, pose significant risks to adolescent health, given their addictive nature and potential to harm brain development. Continued education and proactive measures from parents, educators, and community leaders are crucial in maintaining these gains and protecting youth health. Learn more from the CDC here.
