Public health news covering disease outbreaks, vaccination campaigns, CDC guidelines, health statistics, and community health initiatives.
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 new study in the American Journal of Public Health reveals tobacco companies like RJ Reynolds and Philip Morris applied cigarette marketing strategies to sell ultra-processed foods, including Lunchables, to children. Researchers found these products were optimized for rapid reward, contributing to health risks like dementia.
The Pan American Health Organization urged countries to strengthen surveillance at borders, airports, and World Cup venues after measles cases in the Americas surged to over 20,000 in 2026, four times higher than 2025. Mexico leads with 10,920 cases and 13 deaths.
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 Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is reviving a stigmatizing approach to public health by emphasizing personal responsibility, reversing the medical field's long-standing effort to eliminate stigma. The author contends this shift could undermine public health messaging and trust.
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 painting roofs with reflective paint, or 'cool roofs,' can significantly reduce indoor temperatures and improve health outcomes in vulnerable communities, citing a pilot project in South Africa and Ghana. It contends that such low-cost interventions are crucial for climate adaptation in low-income settings, where heatwaves are exacerbated by climate change.
New restrictions took effect June 1, banning smoking at outdoor pools, playgrounds, bus stops, theme parks, and zoos. Hotels can no longer offer smoking rooms. Vaping and e-cigarettes are also covered.
Former HHS Secretary Tom Price argues that US tobacco policy overlooks millions of adult smokers who cannot quit, advocating for harm reduction through smoke-free alternatives. He contends that the FDA should authorize and communicate about these products, citing a survey showing healthcare practitioners lack accurate knowledge about nicotine.