FDA Says IV Saline Shortage is Over
The FDA announced that the longstanding shortage of sodium chloride 0.9% intravenous (IV) saline, ongoing since 2018, has now been resolved. The shortage worsened after Hurricane Helene flooded a key Baxter manufacturing plant, responsible for 60% of the nation’s supply, forcing hospitals to ration IV fluids and delay elective procedures.
This situation exposed vulnerabilities in the U.S. med…
Ultra-Processed Food Consumption is Down a Bit, But Still More Than 50% of U.S. Diet
New CDC data show that while U.S. consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) has declined slightly, they still account for more than half of Americans’ daily calories — and nearly 62% for children. UPFs, which are typically high in added sugars, fats, and preservatives, are linked to increased risk for chronic diseases such as obesity and diabetes.
The findings highlight the continued challe…
Messaging Matters: Communication Strategies to Combat Mis- and Disinformation for Reproductive Well-Being
A recent session from the Contraceptive Access Initiative underscored the growing threat mis- and disinformation poses to one of the most widely supported public health issues: access to contraception and fertility care. Despite broad, nonpartisan agreement, misleading narratives about contraception, IVF, and pregnancy have fueled public confusion and policy polarization.
To support accurate…
Rabies on the Rise in U.S.: What to Know
Public health officials report a rising threat of rabies in the U.S., with recent outbreaks in wild animals such as raccoons and bats, including new cases in areas like Long Island and Michigan. Rabies, nearly 100% fatal once symptoms appear, spreads mainly through bites or scratches from infected animals.
Because bat bites may go unnoticed, public health authorities advise contacting officials if exposure is suspected. Prevention focuses on keeping pets and livestock vaccinated, avoiding contact with unknown animals, and promptly seeking post-exposure vaccination when necessary. Awarenes…
New CDC Campaign “Free Mind” Tackles Youth Mental Health and Substance Use
The CDC’s Free Mind campaign takes a creative, youth-focused approach to address the critical link between mental health and substance use. Launched July 21, the campaign offers a range of engaging tools—fact sheets, social media graphics, video PSAs, an interactive graphic novel, and a forthcoming card game—to help youth and their caregivers understand how mental health challenges can increase the risk of substance misuse and overdose.
Designed to spark honest conversations and provide healthier coping strategies, Free Mind promotes a blueprint for better mental well-being. Public health…