Pediatric health leaders are raising serious concerns following the overhaul of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) under Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) criticized the new panel—now made up of appointees with ties to vaccine misinformation—for promoting a review of longstanding childhood vaccine schedules. Experts warn this…

Tick-borne diseases vary regionally across the U.S., with Lyme disease the most prevalent, affecting over 470,000 annually. The Northeast, mid-Atlantic, and Upper Midwest report the highest tick bite rates (nearly 20%), primarily from deer ticks carrying Lyme disease and other illnesses like anaplasmosis. The South faces ehrlichiosis, spotted fever rickettsioses, and alpha-gal syndrome, while t…

AIM will host a timely webinar, Utilizing Social Media to Promote Adolescent Immunization, on Tuesday, August 12 from 4–5 p.m. ET, addressing persistent challenges in adolescent vaccination rates. Public health communicators will gain valuable insights on leveraging platforms like TikTok to educate and engage teens. Taylor Lombard of Michigan State University will present findings on HPV vacc…

The CDC is seeking nominations for its Advisory Committee to the Director (ACD), composed of up to 15 experts in public health and related fields such as infectious disease, data science, AI, lab science, global health, and preparedness. Candidates must be U.S. citizens, with diverse perspectives and expertise to advance CDC’s public health goals. Appointments last up to four years, requiring…

Imposter syndrome can challenge even the most experienced public health communicators, causing self-doubt despite proven expertise. Key tactics to overcome it include thorough preparation before client or stakeholder interactions, ensuring strategic alignment and confidence. Staying informed on current industry trends and client developments fosters fresh ideas, enhancing credibility and engage…

The 2025 National Conference on Health Communication, Marketing, and Media (NCHCMM) is happening July 28–30 in Atlanta, and we’re excited to share a preview of this year’s breakout sessions. Highlights include sessions on AI in public health, youth-driven campaigns, mental health messaging, and building trust and transparency through community engagement. Attendees can also explore sessions c…

With warmer-than-average temperatures expected throughout summer 2025, public health communicators are reminded that extreme heat remains the leading cause of weather-related deaths in the U.S.—and is often underestimated. Experts interviewed by NPR emphasize proactive strategies to stay safe. Checking the heat index, not just the temperature, helps gauge true outdoor conditions. Lightweight…

The FDA’s approval of injectable lenacapavir marks a significant advancement in HIV prevention, offering a twice-yearly, long-acting option that addresses key barriers like daily pill burden and stigma. Backed by strong safety and efficacy data from recent trials, lenacapavir complements existing prevention tools such as oral PrEP and long-acting cabotegravir.   The World Health Organiz…

A recent article highlights how public health communicators can tactfully decline media opportunities without damaging vital press relationships. Whether due to time constraints, ethical concerns, or lack of alignment with the story, transparency and early communication are key. Suggesting alternate spokespeople, requesting deadline extensions, or offering future availability shows respect for…