Franklin County Public Health in Ohio recently launched The Guardians of Good Health campaign to reshape the public’s perception of public health beyond COVID-19. With $155,000 in federal and state funds, they worked with a Columbus-based branding company to create retro-inspired cartoon characters representing different public health roles: Vicki Vaccine for immunizations, Millie the Microscope for infectious diseases, and others.   Designed to resonate across age groups, the campaign spans digital ads, streaming PSAs, and medical office materials. Early feedback shows strong engagement,...

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...

A recent study by Forbes Advisor highlights significant disparities in healthcare accessibility across the U.S., where affordable healthcare remains a challenge for many Americans. Notably, only 55% of U.S. adults can access quality healthcare when needed. The analysis ranked states based on various health metrics, revealing that Utah, Nevada, and Texas are among the ten states with the least accessible healthcare.   Key barriers include high costs, inadequate insurance coverage, and a shortage of healthcare providers. Solutions such as telehealth and improved health insurance coverage...

A recent study reveals that nearly one in three U.S. high school students experience racism at school, significantly impacting their mental health. Researchers from the CDC found that students of color reported two to three times more incidents than their white peers, leading to higher rates of depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts.   Asian students were particularly affected, with 57% reporting racist experiences, often exacerbated by societal issues, including the COVID-19 pandemic. Experts emphasize the importance of supportive school environments, urging educational institutions...

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...