LATEST NEWS HIGHLIGHTS
2025 CDC/NPHIC Monthly Communications Calls
The 2025 CDC/NPHIC Monthly Communications Calls kick off on January 15 and will occur on the third Wednesday of each month at 2:30 pm ET. These calls offer key updates from CDC communication staff and now include a platform for NPHIC members to share innovative strategies, successful campaigns, and best practices to benefit peers nationwide.
The January call features Dr. Elizabeth Green, Communications Director for the Big Cities Health Coalition, who will provide insights into public perceptions on drug use, homelessness, community safety, and structural racism, along with strategies for effective messaging. Join us to share, learn, and strengthen public health communication efforts. If you did not receive the calendar invite, please reach out to LEspino@NPHIC.org.
America’s First Bird Flu Death Reported in Louisiana
The first U.S. death from H5N1 bird flu has been reported in Louisiana, underscoring the need for vigilance in public health. The case involved an individual over 65 with underlying conditions who was exposed to wild and backyard birds. Despite the tragic outcome, the CDC emphasizes that the overall risk to the public remains low, with no evidence of person-to-person transmission or alarming changes in the virus spreading among animals.
Public health experts stress prevention, urging backyard poultry keepers and animal workers to practice hygiene, monitor symptoms, and report sick or dead animals. Preventive measures like thorough cooking and seasonal flu vaccinations are key to mitigating risks. Read more from CNN here.
Snow Shoveling: A Risk to Heart Health
The American Heart Association warns that snow shoveling can significantly increase the risk of heart attack or cardiac arrest, particularly for those unaccustomed to intense physical activity. Research shows that even two minutes of shoveling can push heart rates beyond 85% of their maximum. Cold temperatures exacerbate risks by raising blood pressure and constricting coronary arteries.
Those with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions or risk factors, such as obesity, high blood pressure, or a sedentary lifestyle, should avoid this strenuous activity. For safer snow removal, take breaks, push rather than lift snow, and recognize signs of heart trouble. In emergencies, call 911 and perform CPR if needed. Read more from AHA here.
FEATURED TOPICS
U.S. Life Expectancy Rose Last Year to Highest Levels Since Pandemic
U.S. life expectancy rose to 78.4 years in 2023, the highest since the pandemic, with nearly a full year of recovery from 2022. However, it remains below pre-pandemic levels. Men’s life expectancy increased to 76, while women’s rose to just over 81. Death rates also dropped, with 189,000 fewer deaths in 2023 compared to the previous year.
The top causes of death—heart disease, cancer, unintentional injuries, stroke, and chronic respiratory diseases—saw reduced mortality rates, with significant decreases among Hispanic and Native American populations. COVID-19 deaths fell dramatically, dropping from the fourth leading cause in 2022 to the tenth in 2023. Read more from The Hill here.
2025 Recommended Immunization Schedules Now Online
The 2025 Recommended Immunization Schedules are now available, offering vital updates for healthcare providers and the public. Approved by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) and endorsed by the CDC Director, these schedules include detailed vaccination guidelines for children, teens, and adults.
Key updates feature age-based routine vaccinations, catch-up schedules for those behind on immunizations, and simplified, patient-friendly formats to enhance understanding. With recommendations tailored to medical conditions and comprehensive safety precautions, these resources aim to promote timely, effective, and safe immunization practices. Access the schedules from the CDC here to ensure your immunization efforts align with the latest public health guidance.
New At-Home Test Identifies Flu or COVID
This flu season brings a breakthrough in managing respiratory illnesses with new at-home tests that detect both flu and COVID-19 simultaneously. Available without a prescription, these tests provide accurate results within 15-30 minutes, empowering individuals to determine the cause of their symptoms without visiting a clinic.
Early diagnosis aids in preventing transmission, starting treatments like Paxlovid or Tamiflu promptly, and protecting vulnerable populations. These tests, costing about $15, are a game-changer for public health, allowing faster, informed decisions about isolation, care, and treatment. Experts hail them as a milestone in respiratory illness management, offering peace of mind and safeguarding communities. Read more from NPR here.
Save the Date | NCHCMM
Planning for the 2025 National Conference on Health Communication, Marketing, and Media (NCHCMM) is underway, with exciting updates for public health communication professionals. Mark your calendars for the updated dates: July 28–30, 2025, in Atlanta. This new Monday-Wednesday schedule enhances convenience for attendees.
Additionally, the conference welcomes the Public Health Communications Collaborative (PHCC) as a full partner, joining NPHIC and the CDC to advance strategies and innovations in public health communication. The call for abstracts will open soon, providing an opportunity to share impactful work. Stay tuned for updates, including hotel reservation details, and prepare to engage with leaders shaping the future of public health communication. Learn more at NCHCMM.org.
