Latest Health News
CDC Publishes Measles Genome Data Revealing Outbreak Extent
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention posted its first large tranche of advanced genetic data from measles viruses spreading last year, with scientists expecting heaps more data in weeks to come. The data will reveal whether the U.S. has lost its hard-won measles elimination status, though researchers say the Trump administration has done little to contain the virus.
US Scientists Sequence 1,000 Measles Genomes as Disease Makes Comeback
US researchers have sequenced 1,000 genomes from measles, a disease long eliminated with vaccines, as part of efforts to understand the current outbreak. The CDC withheld the genetic data for months while the agency, hit hard by mass layoffs and resignations, sorted through the information.
Measles Outbreak Continues in South Carolina; Chicago on Alert
South Carolina's measles outbreak appears to be nearing its end, while Chicago is on alert following a potential airport exposure. The resurgence of measles in the United States has prompted public health officials to intensify surveillance and containment efforts.
WHO Warns Respiratory Diseases Remain Global Health Threat
The World Health Organisation states that influenza, COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses continue to place a significant burden on global health. While current variants may be less severe, Dr Maria Van Kerkhove, WHO's technical lead, emphasized that countries should remain vigilant with ongoing monitoring, vaccination, and public health measures.
Bipartisan House Legislation Introduced to Reform Medicare Physician Fee Schedule
Bipartisan House members introduced the Provider Reimbursement Stability Act (H.R. 8163) on March 30, which makes targeted improvements to the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule. The AMA-supported legislation aims to reform budget neutrality in the fee schedule.
New Hampshire Governor Vetoes Eye Surgery Bill, Protecting Patient Safety
New Hampshire Governor Ayotte vetoed HB 349, which would have authorized optometrists to perform intricate surgical procedures on and around the eye. The AMA argued that only ophthalmologists, who complete four years of medical school followed by four to six years of residency and fellowship training, are qualified to safely perform eye surgery.
COVID-19 Vaccination Protects Cancer Patients Against Long COVID
Researchers reported in JAMA Network Open that COVID-19 vaccination and boosting played an important role in protecting cancer patients against long COVID during the Omicron wave. The findings highlight the continued importance of vaccination for vulnerable populations.
RSV Vaccination Coverage Remains Low Among Older US Adults
RSV vaccination coverage continues to remain low among older US adults, presenting a public health concern. Health officials are working to increase awareness and uptake of RSV vaccines in this vulnerable population.
RFK Jr. Pledges Support for Lyme Disease Prevention as HHS Secretary
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., serving as secretary of the US Department of Health and Human Services, has pledged greater support for Lyme disease, which is now an even bigger problem than it was 40 years ago. At a December roundtable discussion, he committed to improving diagnostics and treatment for the disease.
New Bill Offers Hope to Diabetes Advocates on Insulin Cost Reduction
A new bipartisan bill aims to lower insulin costs, giving hope to diabetes advocates struggling with medication affordability. The legislation represents continued efforts to address the high cost of diabetes treatment in the United States.