LATEST NEWS HIGHLIGHTS
Experts Offer Guidance on When to Get Shots to Protect Against Influenza, Covid-19, and RSV
As fall approaches, public health officials emphasize the importance of timely vaccinations for influenza, Covid-19, and RSV. Experts recommend getting flu and Covid-19 shots together if convenience is a priority, and RSV shots if eligible. The timing of these vaccines is complex due to varying virus behaviors and the waning of vaccine immunity over time.
For optimal protection, consider getting the flu shot by late October and the Covid-19 vaccine now or early fall to shield against current high transmission rates. RSV vaccines are advised for older adults and pregnant individuals. Balancing timing and convenience can help ensure robust protection throughout the winter season. Read the full article from STAT News here.
U.S. Prepares for Possible Arrival of More Severe Strain of Mpox
The U.S. is preparing for the potential arrival of a more severe strain of mpox, clade 1, which has caused over 24,800 cases and 600 deaths in Africa this year. This strain, more deadly than the clade 2 version seen in 2022, has recently spread to Sweden and Thailand. U.S. officials have expanded mpox surveillance, particularly through wastewater analysis, and are educating healthcare providers about clade 1.
The Jynneos vaccine remains effective against both clades, and vaccines are available to high-risk populations. The CDC is coordinating testing and monitoring efforts, while research into new treatments continues, although no specific treatments for mpox are currently approved. Read more from NBC News here.
U.S. Case of H5 Bird Flu with No Known Link to Animals Reported
A Missouri resident has tested positive for H5 bird flu despite no reported contact with animals, marking the first case of its kind in the ongoing outbreak. This individual had underlying health issues and was hospitalized but has since recovered. The CDC is analyzing the virus but has not found evidence suggesting increased human transmissibility.
Experts urge caution, noting that isolated cases can occur, such as a recent H5N2 case in Mexico. The potential infection sources include contaminated raw milk or contact with wild birds. The CDC continues to monitor the situation to assess any public health risks related to the virus. Read more from STAT News here.
FEATURED TOPICS
NPHIC’s Robert Jennings Featured on ASTHO’s Podcast, Public Health Review: Morning Edition
In the latest ASTHO Public Health Review Morning Podcast, Dr. Marcus Plescia provides an update on current COVID-19 rates across the U.S., highlighting ongoing trends and concerns. Robert Jennings from the National Public Health Information Coalition (NPHIC) discusses the promising role of AI in enhancing public health communication, offering insights into how technology can improve outreach and effectiveness.
Additionally, an upcoming ASTHO webinar will delve into strategies for public outreach, focusing on increasing awareness of PPC services and engaging communities more effectively. This episode underscores the dynamic interplay between evolving health data, innovative technologies, and strategic communication efforts. Listen here.
Extreme Heat Emerging as a ‘Public Health Crisis’
Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra recently highlighted the growing public health crisis caused by extreme heat, particularly during his visit to Phoenix, Arizona, where temperatures have soared into triple digits. Becerra emphasized that climate change is driving this crisis, with rising heat levels now posing a greater threat than traditional cold-weather emergencies.
He pointed out that extreme heat is responsible for numerous fatalities, with approximately 1,220 heat-related deaths occurring annually in the U.S. The Biden administration is responding by proposing new standards to protect workers from heat exposure, including mandatory rest breaks and access to shade and water. Read more from The Hill here.
MMWR: The U.S. Death Rate Decreased by 6% in 2023
Provisional data for 2023 shows over 3 million deaths in the U.S., with a 6.1% decrease in the age-adjusted death rate compared to 2022. Notably, COVID-19 deaths dropped by 68.9% from 2022. The highest death rates were among non-Hispanic Black individuals, while the lowest were among multiracial individuals.
Leading causes of death included heart disease, cancer, and unintentional injury, with COVID-19 falling to the tenth leading cause. These findings underscore the importance of timely data in shaping public health policies, particularly for high-mortality populations. Monitoring these trends is essential for targeted interventions to reduce mortality rates further. Read more from the CDC here.
2025 National Conference on Health Communication, Marketing, and Media (NCHCMM)
Mark your calendars for the 2025 National Conference on Health Communication, Marketing, and Media (NCHCMM) from July 29-31 in Atlanta, GA. Celebrating its 17th year, NCHCMM unites academia, public health researchers, practitioners from federal and state governments, and industry leaders to engage in meaningful dialogue.
Co-hosted by the CDC and NPHIC, this premier public health communications conference promotes innovative ideas and new approaches in health communication, marketing, and media. Attendees can share research, discuss emerging trends, and network with experts in the field. Join us to advance the practice of health communication and marketing. Learn more at www.nchcmm.org.
