Infectious disease news covering outbreaks, vaccines, antimicrobial resistance, and global health surveillance.
Researchers discovered that H3N2 and H1N1 flu viruses enter human cells differently. Depleting the protein Rab11B blocked H3N2 entry but not H1N1, challenging the assumption of a universal entry mechanism. The finding could lead to strain-specific treatments.
The BA.3.2 variant, dubbed 'cicada,' has been detected in 25 states via wastewater surveillance. It partially evades antibody responses but does not cause more severe symptoms. The CDC's wastewater monitoring system faces funding cuts that could end Sept. 30, 2026.
A study in JAMA Network Open found that public interest in vitamin A and cod liver oil as measles treatments surged after HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and vaccine skeptic Suzanne Humphries appeared on Joe Rogan's podcast. U.S. Poison Centers reported a 38.7% increase in vitamin A exposures from January to March 2025.
CDC data shows colds peaked in mid-May, with rhinovirus and enterovirus rates now declining but still elevated. Dr. Jill Foster advises distinguishing colds from allergies by noting that allergies don't cause fevers and antihistamines don't help colds.
This commentary argues that long-acting HIV prevention methods, such as injections and implants, could significantly reduce new infections in South Africa by improving adherence compared to daily pills. It contends that making prevention more convenient is key to overcoming challenges like stigma and forgetfulness, and that such innovations are crucial given the persistently high infection rates.
Japan's Shionogi received FDA approval for its oral antiviral to prevent COVID-19 in adults and children following exposure. The drug is authorized for post-exposure prophylaxis.
Moderna partnered with CEPI to develop a vaccine against Bundibugyo ebolavirus, with CEPI committing up to $50 million for testing. The ongoing outbreak in DR Congo has over 1,000 suspected cases and nine confirmed cases in Uganda, with nearly 250 deaths. No approved vaccine exists for this species.
Pennsylvania lawmakers are calling for increased transparency around school vaccination data, including making school-level rates available to parents. This follows investigations finding hundreds of schools with measles vaccination rates below 95%. The state has reported 38 measles cases in 2026, more than double last year's total.
This commentary argues that advances in HIV treatment, particularly single-pill regimens like TLD and the new BIC/LEN combination, have simplified therapy and improved outcomes. It highlights the potential of BIC/LEN to replace complex multi-tablet regimens for patients with resistance or intolerance, citing a recent study showing non-inferior efficacy and higher satisfaction.