Latest Health News
CMS Head Mehmet Oz Urges Measles Shots Amid Skyrocketing Infections
Mehmet Oz, head of CMS, pledged continued insurance coverage for recommended vaccinations and urged measles shots as infections rise sharply. This follows Trump administration shifts promoting personal choice in immunizations, causing confusion over government program coverage for childhood shots. Public health officials emphasize vaccination to control outbreaks.
FDA Investigates Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Rosabella Moringa Powder
The FDA and CDC are probing a Salmonella outbreak tied to Rosabella-brand moringa powder, with seven illnesses and three hospitalizations across seven U.S. states. Drug-resistant infections are under investigation in Arizona, Florida, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Tennessee, and Washington. The agency continues to examine affected product lots.
COVID Survivors Face Higher Risk of Obstructive Sleep Apnea for Years
Patients with severe and nonsevere COVID-19 are at elevated risk for new-onset obstructive sleep apnea and complications up to 4.5 years post-infection, per Albert Einstein College study on medRxiv. This affects both short- and long-term health outcomes compared to uninfected peers. Researchers highlight ongoing monitoring needs.
Chikungunya Tropical Disease Now Transmissible Across Most of Europe
Climate-driven higher temperatures enable chikungunya transmission by mosquitoes for over six months yearly in Spain and Greece, and two months in southeast England. Scientists warn of northward expansion with continued global heating. The painful disease poses new risks to southern and parts of northern Europe.
Ultrasound-Activated Nanobubbles Breach Cancer Tumor Barriers
Case Western Reserve researchers used nanobubbles and ultrasound to dismantle solid tumor structures, improving drug and immune cell penetration in breast cancer models. The method activates tumor immune cells, recruiting more to attack cancer sites, including untreated tumors. Clinical trials for solid tumors like liver and prostate are planned within two years.
Global Fund Secures $12.64 Billion in Eighth Replenishment
The Global Fund Board approved $12.64 billion for AIDS, TB, and malaria, praising contributions from South Africa, UK, civil society, and private sector. It backs strategic shifts for country self-reliance and equitable access to innovations like lenacapavir for HIV prevention. Funding gaps remain a concern for ending these diseases.
Stem Cell Breakthrough Produces 14 Million Tumor-Killing NK Cells
Chinese scientists engineered cord blood stem cells to generate massive quantities of potent NK and CAR-NK cells for cancer therapy, improving efficiency and reducing CAR engineering costs. This mass-production method targets specific cancers effectively. Supported by China's Ministry of Science and Technology.
WHPA Calls for Global Action Against Violence on Health Workers
The World Health Professions Alliance reports escalating violence, intimidation, and persecution of health professionals since COVID-19, in conflicts and civil unrest. Urgent action is needed to protect those providing care worldwide. The trend threatens global health security.
ViiV Healthcare Presents Long-Acting HIV Innovations at CROI 2026
New data on third-generation integrase inhibitor VH184, capsid inhibitor VH499, and 12-month results for lotivibart with cabotegravir for HIV treatment. Analyses compare dolutegravir regimens, highlighting metabolic impacts and efficacy in high viral load patients. Advances aim for ultra long-acting HIV therapies.
Samoa Launches One Health Project with $4.8M Pandemic Fund Grant
Samoa, with WHO, FAO, and World Bank support, launched a One Health initiative for pandemic preparedness, including surveillance and labs. It unveiled new antimicrobial and infection control guidelines to strengthen health security. The grant mobilizes over $5M in co-financing.
CRISPR Gene Drive Targets Bacterial Antibiotic Resistance
UC San Diego researchers developed a CRISPR system for bacteria to reverse antibiotic resistance, potentially addressing the crisis by editing resistant strains. This innovation could restore effectiveness of existing antibiotics. Published February 18, 2026.
Kansas Launches Theranostics Center for Precision Cancer Treatments
A public-private collaboration in Kansas City integrates radiopharmaceutical production, imaging, and therapy for theranostics, targeting prostate, neuroendocrine cancers, and more. It expands access to trials for adults and children, minimizing side effects. BAMF Health leads the vertically integrated platform.