LATEST NEWS HIGHLIGHTS
CDC Confirms New Human Cases of H5 Bird Flu in California
The CDC has confirmed two human cases of H5 bird flu in California farmworkers exposed to infected dairy cows, marking the state’s first human cases. Both individuals experienced mild symptoms, including conjunctivitis, and the cases are unrelated. This brings the total number of H5 cases in the U.S. to 17 since 2022.
While the risk to the general public remains low, farmworkers are at higher risk, and the CDC recommends wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) when in contact with infected animals. Public health officials continue to monitor the virus closely due to concerns about its potential to adapt and spread further among humans. Read more from the CDC here.
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.
October is Liver Cancer Awareness Month | Toolkit
The Global Liver Institute’s #OctoberIs4Livers campaign, launched in 2018, is the first global initiative to raise awareness about liver cancer during Liver Cancer Awareness Month. It aims to enhance public knowledge, improve clinical practices, and shape policies around prevention, early detection, and treatment. This year's theme, Addressing Disparities in Liver Cancer Care, focuses on promoting health equity by connecting with diverse communities worldwide.
Public health communicators are encouraged to join the campaign by utilizing the toolkit, which includes ready-to-use graphics and messaging to spread awareness and drive change in liver health care. Let’s push for equitable care and improved liver health outcomes globally.
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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.
CDC’s Initiative to Address COVID-19 Health Disparities: Lessons Learned
The American Journal of Public Health has released a significant new collection titled "CDC’s Initiative to Address COVID-19 Health Disparities: Lessons Learned." This collection features a range of promising practices from state, local, and territorial organizations that were funded through the COVID-19 Health Disparities Grant.
The grant aimed to address health disparities exacerbated by the pandemic, particularly among racial and ethnic minority groups and people in rural areas. By providing a crucial funding boost to 108 health departments, the grant enhanced their capacity to tackle systemic inequities and build lasting infrastructure. As the fall respiratory virus season approaches, these lessons offer valuable guidance for future public health efforts. Read more from AJPH here.
