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Birding is more than a hobby. It’s a public health tool
Notifications, deadlines, and a steady stream of information compete for our attention all day long., Birding offers a simple interruption to that pattern.
Public health alert lifted for chicken nuggets sold nationwide at Walmart
A public health alert for frozen, ready-to-eat chicken nuggets sold at Walmart locations nationwide has been retracted.
SDSU public health programs, speech-language science rank among nation
Four top-25 programs include epidemiology and clinical psychology.
SDSU public health programs, speech-language science rank among nation
Four top-25 programs include epidemiology and clinical psychology.
Cook County Public Health Celebrates 2026 National Public Health Week - Cook County Department of Public Health
Cook County Department of Public Health (CCDPH) joins public health agencies across the nation in recognizing National Public Health Week (April 6-12) to raise awareness about public health.
UC Berkeley Public Health surges to No. 6 in U.S. News Rankings
UCBPH was also ranked as a top 10 school for Environmental Health, Community Health, Epidemiology, and Health Policy & Management.
This public health week, the US is squandering health and wealth
The human costs of underfunding public health are not abstractions.
Public health alert for frozen dino chicken nuggets retracted
FSIS retracted the public health alert for frozen, dinosaur-shaped chicken nuggets after follow up testing found no elevated levels of lead.
Affordability and Preventive Public Health Policy
Affordability pressures increasingly shape health risk in the United States, influencing both the upstream conditions that sustain health and the downstream ability to access health promoting resources. Financial stability is a key driver of health, affecting patterns of health, health care use, and the tradeoffs people must make among competing needs. The economic policy landscape aimed at improving financial security for Americans is expansive, complex, and often difficult to organize, making it challenging to discuss how different policies influence financial resilience and population health. We propose the Earn–Keep–Grow framework as a practical way to organize and guide discussion of these policies in population health research and policy decision-making.
Pediatric ICU nurse brings clinical insight to global health policy analysis | Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health
Heesu Shin, SM ’26, helped take care of kids at his hospital in South Korea. Now, he’s working to help them on a larger scale through his research.
Walmart's dino nuggets are safe to eat after high lead scare, USDA says
A public health alert for Walmart's Great Value dinosaur-shaped chicken nuggets, suspected of lead contamination, has been retracted.
Brewing Better Health highlights the power of public health partnerships and celebrates National Public Health Week
A Brewing Better Health podcast conversation with Chad Kingsley, M.D., MBA, and Dean Muge Akpinar-Elci, M.D., MPH, on prevention, community health and what public health is.
UNE and Maine Public Health Association announce innovative workforce training partnership
Starting in spring 2026, students across multiple programs, including public health, nutrition, marine science, climate change leadership, medicine, and business, will work together with MPHA to solve real-world problems, learn how to advocate for change, and connect with mentors already working in the field. With UNE's Institute of Public and Planetary Health now MPHA’s largest academic member, the partnership will leverage UNE’s new Institute of Public and Planetary Health to provide critical transdisciplinary public health workforce training for UNE students.
Statewide effort highlights prevention and health equity
The Illinois Department of Public Health is launching "30 days of public health."
UNC Gillings ranked No. 1 public school of public health in US — No. 2 overall - UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health
April 6, 2026 The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s Gillings School of Global Public Health has once again been recognized as the top public school of public health in the United States, tied for No. 2 overall. U.S. News and World Report released the 2026-2027 rankings on April 6.
Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health Again Rated #1 by Peers in U.S. News & World Report | Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health
The School has held the #1 spot since the rankings began in 1994. The School has also been named by peers as a leader in five specialty areas within public health this year.
The George Washington University Milken Institute School of Public Health Rises to No. 11 in National Rankings | Milken Institute School of Public Health | The George Washington University
The George Washington University Milken Institute School of Public Health Rises to No. 11 in National Rankings
Reduced medical residencies if governor approves cuts to public health budget
The 2026 Idaho Legislature is adjourned sine die, but the fate of some bills are still unclear. Among those still awaiting decision include a Health and Welfare
World Health Day 2026: PAHO/WHO calls for renewed commitment to science to drive better health for all
6 April 2026, Geneva / Washington, DC-- The World Health Organization (WHO) and the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) call on people everywhere to renew their commitment to science as the foundation for better health, under the World Health Day 2026 theme: “Together for health. Stand with science.” The campaign marks the anniversary of WHO’s founding on 7 April, launching a year-long public health campaign.
News Round-Up: Public Health in Flux
News and expert insights on public health policy, outbreak response, and evolving risks across the US and globally
Public health has saved hundreds of millions of lives. Is yours one of them? - Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department
Last revised April 6, 2026
Public Health Education in an Uncertain World: Training Leaders Guided by Evidence and Empathy
Public health education trains professionals to prevent crises and advance community health, all while emphasizing humanity.
SC observes National Public Health Week, April 6-12
Each April, National Public Health Week is observed to recognize public health contributions and address key health issues.
Public health takes center stage in US midterm campaigns: ‘It’s already been politicized’
Some candidates are making public health a central part of their midterm campaigns amid Trump’s war on science
Natural Gas Reliability as a Public Health Essential
Whether it’s a sprained wrist from trying to relive a childhood outdoor game, the sniffles from an unexpected rain shower on an evening walk, or questionable leftovers you knew may not be good; hospital trips happen every day. When anyone walks into a hospital, they expect machines to be working properly, temperatures to be comfortable, and equipment to be clean. The way patients rely on hospitals for care would not be […]
City of Austin Celebrates National Public Health Week April 6
The City of Austin and Austin Public Health are kicking off April by celebrating National Public Health Week. This annual awareness week recognizes the importance of public health and highlights the work done to make our community a healthier place f
Fayette County Annual Report Highlights Local Public Health Efforts
Article presented by McDonald’s, I’m Lovin’ It! … Fayette County Public Health (FCPH) has released its 2025 Annual Report, showcasing the department’s work to protect health, prevent disease, and promote wellness across the community. The report highlights the impact of public health services delivered throughout the year, including clinical care, environmental health, school-based services, emergency preparedness, and community outreach initiatives. In
WHO calls for action: “Together for health. Stand with science.” to mark World Health Day
The World Health Organization (WHO) today calls on people everywhere to renew their commitment to working together and supporting science as the twin engines driving better health, under the World Health Day 2026 theme: “Together for health. Stand with science.” The campaign marks the anniversary of WHO’s founding on 7 April 1948, launching a year-long public health campaign.
WHO calls for action: “Together for health. Stand with science.” to mark World Health Day
The World Health Organization (WHO) today calls on people everywhere to renew their commitment to working together and supporting science as the twin engines driving better health, under the World Health Day 2026 theme: “Together for health. Stand with science.” The campaign marks the anniversary of WHO’s founding on 7 April 1948, launching a year-long public health campaign.
Spokane Regional Health District to mark Public Health Week with events
Spokane Regional Health District (SRHD) is celebrating National Public Health Week from April 6-12, 2026, by highlighting the importance of coordinated public health efforts and showcasing ongoing initiatives to improve
There’s a public health alert about a Walmart brand food aimed at kids
The USDA says more products could be added.
SBCC Psychology Chair and Research Team's Study on Movement Disorders Published in the International Journal of Public Health
A study by an international team of researchers led by Santa Barbara City College (SBCC) Psychology Department Chair Leida Tolentino was recently published in the International Journal of Public Health
Internet betting is a bad bet and a public health crisis
The outcome that some people feared in the 2000s has seemingly come to pass, to our culture's detriment, writes Greg Ganske.
10 things to do this week, including National Public Health Week events, a standup comedy show and a Brookline Music School performance
Read about the latest events in Brookline.
As Montana Prepares to Roll Out Medicaid Work Requirements in July, Health Care Advocates Propose Best Practices
As the state’s Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) gears up to begin checking for Medicaid work requirements this summer, department officials this week announced the launch of a new government webpage designed to help patients navigate the upcoming changes. “Our priority is to ensure that Montanans covered by Medicaid Expansion have the […]
Blue-green algae sparks public health advisory at three Kansas Lakes
There is a public health advisory in place for harmful algal blooms (HABs) at three lakes in Kansas.
“Ready. Set. Action!” Celebrating National Public Health Week, April…
Spokane, Wash. – April 6-12, 2026, Spokane Regional Health District (SRHD) celebrates National Public Health Week, a week where local health jurisdictions…
Public Health and Criminal Justice: Working Together to Reduce Gun Violence | Center for Gun Violence Solutions
Gun violence remains one of the most pressing public health challenges in the United States. Yet efforts to prevent it are too often siloed with public health and criminal justice working in parallel rather than in partnership.
We all need to become better science storytellers. Here’s why and how.
Last week, in a lovely New Haven bar, six people gathered in front of a crowd to tell stories that were somehow related to science and public health. It was magical. One person talked about learning how social determinants of health helped them forgive their mother’s alcoholism. Another shared what it’s been like navigating a dementia diagnosis. Another described their last dinner with their mother before they left Nigeria to come to the U.S. and how that moment, plus the diagnosis that followed, shapes their career goals today. As the Executive Director of The Evidence Collective at Your Local Epidemiologist, I was ecstatic to bring this event, “Science and Storytelling,” to the community surrounding the Yale School of Public Health. Stories are not the default way most people communicate about science and public health. In fact, we are taught to take all the emotion out of data, but that makes it pretty darn boring to everyone else. And if people can’t see themselves in it, feel themselves in it, or influence it, how can we ask them to support it? Why do stories stick? How can we all—from community members to public health scientists—do better? And what are some examples?
From sidewalks to systems: UK celebrates Public Health Week
Public health is all around us — from the sidewalks we walk on to the food we eat and the care we can access. National Public Health Week at the University of Kentucky College of Public Health celebrates that work while highlighting the students and faculty shaping it every day. Running April 5-11, this year’s events focus on community and connection.
National Public Health Week is ready, set for action
NPHW 2026 will take place next week, April 6-12. Its theme is “Ready. Set. Action!,” which supports a bold approach to improving health and wellness, meeting the moment with clarity and positivity, and engaging in collaboration and partnerships to make things happen.
2026 National Public Health Week
Each April, National Public Health Week shines a spotlight on the systems, people, and partnerships that keep our communities healthy. This year’s theme —Ready. Set. Action! — was chosen by the American Public Health Association (APHA) and calls on each of us to look back at the progress made and look forward to the steps needed for an even healthier future.
USDA Issues Public Health Alert for Great Value Dino Chicken Nuggets Sold Nationwide
Time to check your freezer.
RFK Jr. To Finally Face The Music For Failed Anti-Science Agenda: Public Health Project Newsletter
Over the last year plus, Trump Health Secretary RFK Jr. has seemingly been everywhere promoting his personal brand and greatest hits of evidence-free anti-science conspiracy theories – everywhere but communities...
Student’s health equity nonprofit makes Harvard President’s Innovation Challenge finals | Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health
BLKHLTH, founded by Matthew McCurdy, DrPH ’28, was selected as a finalist in the 2026 Harvard President’s Innovation Challenge.
New Public Health Leadership Award recognizes oral health champions in California
California dentists who have distinguished themselves through a lifetime of leadership and contributions in public health and public policy can be recognized through a CDA Foundation award launched April 1.
Public health alert issued for Walmart dino nuggets. Here's why
Walmart's Great Value dino chicken nuggets are part of a public health alert. Here's why.
From evidence to action: WHO consultation advances public health and social measures for public health emergencies
For its third global technical consultation on Public Health and Social Measures (PHSM) during health emergencies, held on 24–26 March, WHO brought together over 120 experts from 44 Member States representing ministries of health, national institutes of public health and academia as well as civil society and international organizations.
MHA Team Wins Prestigious Case Competition | Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health
MHA students Hallie Smith, Delaney Brooks, and Beth Bleil earned first place at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Health Administration Case Competition, the most prestigious health care administration competitions in the country.
Public health alert issued for Great Value dinosaur-shaped chicken nuggets over lead concerns
A public health alert has been issued for frozen “Great Value” dinosaur-shaped chicken nuggets due to lead contamination concerns, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS).
Rethinking science diplomacy for a more equitable public health future
Rigorous public health research in the Global South, especially in conflict-affected contexts, depends on trust, reciprocity, local leadership
Guest Commentary: Teaching Kids to Cook is Public Health
The CEO of Vetri Community Partnership on what the loss of federal SNAP-Ed funding might mean — and how you can help
Prediction Markets Make a Bet Against Public Health
Opinion | Online prediction markets evade safeguards against gambling and risk normalizing addictive behaviors.
New study sheds light on health disparities of bi+ dementia caregivers
Krystal Kittle, assistant professor of community health education in the School of Public Health and Health Sciences, has led a new study that sheds light on the community of bi+ (e.g., bisexual, pansexual, ...
Public Health warns of measles exposure in Seattle, Bellevue and Kirkland
Officials noted the case totals reflect only King County residents and do not include people who may have traveled through the area while contagious.
Op-ed: What makes a 'good fire'? Public health’s role in wildfire management
Public health needs to play a larger role in wildfire management to safeguard the health of communities and our forests.
UC names Suzanne Judd, PhD, as inaugural director of new Center for Public Health
Following an extensive national search, the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine has appointed Suzanne E. Judd, PhD, as the inaugural director of its newly established Center for Public Health. Judd, a renowned epidemiologist and interdisciplinary scholar, will lead the center’s mission to transform community health through innovative research, education and strategic advocacy.
Remembrance: Former colleagues praise Barry Bloom’s scientific achievements, global health contributions, and good humor | Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health
Barry Bloom, the former dean of Harvard Chan School who died on March 18, was an inspiration to many, according to longtime colleagues Marc Lipsitch and Yonatan Grad.
FIU Alzheimer’s breakthrough advances to national finals of science competition ‘STAT Madness’
Representing FIU in this year’s STAT Madness finals is a research team from the Robert Stempel College of Public Health & Social Work, led by Tomás R. Guilarte (right), dean of Stempel College,...
From classroom to Capitol Hill, UF students help shape health policy
On any given day in the halls of Congress, Ryan Athay may meet with health advocates, research complex policy issues or help write legislation that could impact millions of lives. For Athay, a Master of Public Health student in the University of Florida College of Public Health and Health Professions, the experience is more than a line on a resume. It’s a front-row seat to policymaking in real time.
Behind the scenes at the Department of Public Health: How a Harvard physician is supporting child well-being
When Harvard Medical School and Mass General Hospital’s Ingrid Bassett, M.D. ’00, M.P.H. ’07, began her public service leave at the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH), she set out…
NM governor candidate Haaland plans to ‘work toward’ public health care, fight Trump Medicaid cuts
Former Interior Secretary and New Mexico gubernatorial candidate Deb Haaland announced plans to tackle the state's health care system.
Alumni Spotlight: Caroline Doherty, MHS ’22 | Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health
Caroline Doherty, MHS ’22, uses the strong foundation she earned while at the Bloomberg School to make a lasting impact in the field of health policy.
Alumni Spotlight: Bonny Dahm’s Role in Transforming Healthcare Policy Into Action | Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health
Bonny Dahm, MHS ’08, puts her Bloomberg School training to use by leading strategic initiatives at the intersection of policy, operations, and growth.
Cook County Department of Public Health warns of possible measles exposure at O'Hare, 2 stores in Niles
According to the CCDPH, measles is a dangerous and potentially deadly, highly contagious respiratory disease that spreads easily through the air when an infected person breathes, coughs, or sneezes.
Using advanced statistics and AI to improve health | Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health
Matlin Gilman, PhD ‘26, studies the real-world health effects of policy decisions and builds artificial intelligence tools to advance health care.
Using advanced statistics and AI to improve health | Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health
Matlin Gilman, PhD ‘26, studies the real-world health effects of policy decisions and builds artificial intelligence tools to advance health care.
Health Care and Public Health Collaborate on Emergency Preparedness in North Dakota
Learn how North Dakota leveraged cross-sector partnerships to create a stronger emergency response system.
The cost to jobs and public health from the EPA rollbacks (Episode 30)
The US Environmental Protection Agency has announced a major deregulation of greenhouse gas emissions, effectively repealing 25-year-old emission standards for all light, medium, and heavy vehicles and engines of model years 2012 to 2027 and beyond.
Public Health Leaders to Convene in Baltimore at the 2026 Preparedness Summit to Improve Local and National Emergency Response Efforts
/PRNewswire/ -- The National Association of County and City Health Officials (NACCHO), the voice of the country's over 3,300 local health departments, will...
Baylor students explore stress, connection in ‘The Science of Thriving’
In Baylor’s Department of Public Health, a one-credit-hour course aims to help students manage stress and build resilience, but questions remain about whether well-being can truly be taught.
Hofstra’s National Public Health Week Serves as Call to Action
A weeklong series of events for students, faculty, health professionals, and community partners, focused on the urgent need for collective action to improve health outcomes, will run April 8 – April 15 in recognition of National Public Health Week (NPHW). Hosted by the Hofstra School of Health Sc
Public health providers have to obey strict cyber security rules – so should private contractors
Recent data breaches damaged trust in New Zealand’s health system. A new cyber security strategy must ensure stricter regulatory oversight and mandatory audits.
Students Gain Global Public Health Experience Through ICAP Next Generation Program
Brooklyn College students will once again have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in global public health through ICAP.
EU tightens air pollution standards: What it means for public health
The EU revised its air quality law in 2024, tightening 2030 pollution limits and strengthening enforcement. Learn what it means for public health and ri...
Can the CDC respond to public health threats without a director?
NPR's Michel Martin speaks with former CDC official Demetre Daskalakis about the absence of a CDC director and the government's ability to respond to public health threats.Support NPR and hear every episode of Trump's Terms sponsor-free with NPR+. Sign up at plus.npr.org.
Alumni Spotlight: Marco Antonio Quiroz, MSPH ’25 | Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health
Marco Antonio Quiroz, MSPH ’25, puts his Bloomberg School training to use improving health policy for underserved communities.
Improving Connecticut’s Public Health Through Cross-Sector Data-Sharing
The Prevention Data Portal, launched in 2018 by Connecticut’s State Epidemiological Outcomes Workgroup (SEOW), houses data from local, state, and federal sources to advance health promotion and substance use prevention in the state.
Q&A with Dallas County public health director
Dr. Philip Huang has worked on HIV prevention efforts, tobacco and secondhand smoke measures and more.
Q&A with Dallas County public health director
Dr. Philip Huang has worked on HIV prevention efforts, tobacco and secondhand smoke measures and more.
Publicly, NH never joined Northeast Public Health Collaborative. Privately, it’s deeply involved.
When 10 Northeastern U.S. states came together in September to announce a new public health collaborative amid turmoil within federal health agencies, New Hampshire was the only state in the region not included. However, behind closed doors, New Hampshire was directly involved in the group from an early stage and continues to be involved today, internal emails obtained by the Bulletin reveal.
Remembering public health pioneer Barry Bloom: a scientist, a mentor, a mensch
Marc Lipsitch and Yonatan Grad pay tribute to their former colleague and mentor Barry R. Bloom.
Opinion | Public health challenges of legalized pot were predictable
If we continue to treat cannabis primarily as a tax revenue stream, we will miss the moment.
Navigating the social media minefield
Scientists and researchers seeking to announce promising findings, exchange ideas or contribute to policy discussions outside of academic circles may find social media an expedient tool.But increasingly, scientists and other professionals are discovering that online platforms can be a double-edged sword: while sharing their work and expertise is crucial for visibility and meeting funder expectations, it also exposes them to baseless criticism and even accusations of spreading false information."It is getting harder and harder for scientists, and researchers in general, to convey their findings without facing attacks on their legitimacy and accuracy of their research," says Valère Ndior, a professor of public law at the University of Western Brittany in Brest, France, who has spent more than a decade studying misinformation on social media. Researchers attempting to challenge deceptive online information may themselves be accused of political bias or not being objective in their research, he explains, adding that some scientists disengage because they feel overwhelmed and unable to sustain meaningful dialogue. "It is quite sad to see in some instances that researchers end up leaving social media altogether because they feel like the pressure is getting too intense or feel threatened," he says.Ndior, a past president of the Francophone Network of International Law, is also involved in European efforts to make science and research findings more accessible to the public. As an ambassador for the Science Comes to Town (SCTT) project, he has participated in recent discussions on public perceptions of science and online misinformation. The European Commission-funded initiative connects Brest and two other cities — Kiel in Germany and Split in Croatia — and aims to strengthen ties between communities, universities and research institutions to promote science awareness and cooperation across Europe.Coordinated campaigns around contentious topicsNdior draws a clear distinction between critical thinking and thoughtless criticism. Yet he sees online discussions being increasingly shaped by suspicious behaviour and coordinated information campaigns — including "raids" aimed at dominating discussions and "astroturfing," where small groups act as larger movements to sway debates. Tracking these patterns has become harder because some platforms have restricted data or charge for it, despite provisions of the European Union's Digital Securities Act aimed at ensuring researchers can have access to such data. According to Ndior, "platforms became more reluctant from the moment access to data became a legal requirement rather than a voluntary initiative."Unfounded claims and scepticism about science existed long before Internet chat groups. But the noticeable rise in online hostility has intensified around contentious topics, such as the coronavirus pandemic and climate change, alongside the weakening of gatekeepers to moderate content.For Ndior, dubious claims about pandemic countermeasures and vaccine safety highlighted the struggle between "balancing freedom of expression and the protection of public health and order." Efforts to remove social media content deemed false or risky for public health triggered accusations of censorship and the silencing of legitimate discussion, and in some cases, legal challenges.Concerns about attacks on the credibility of scientists and researchers have generated a flurry of academic papers in recent years and prompted professional communities to address ways to counter online attacks. Such unease extends to the generation that has grown up with digital media. Ndior points out that his students, some of whom research artificial intelligence regulation, hate speech, online surveillance and other controversial topics, hesitate to share their work or viewpoints online. "Many of them don't want to expose themselves too much because they don't feel ready to be faced with the backlash of other people criticising their research," he explains.Safer harbours for engagementLegal challenges against false or defamatory posts are not necessarily a solution — especially given the trans-jurisdictional nature of the Internet. Lawsuits also take time and money, and if they fail, can be counterproductive. Instead, Ndior advises scientists and researchers to be selective in how and where they communicate. Professional online platforms and moderated discussion spaces offer a better environment for engagement. He also highlights the value of more traditional formats, such as radio interviews and in-person discussions at schools, libraries and science fairs, which encourage dialogue with the public. "Personal contact makes a big difference," he says, while acknowledging that these approaches lack the global reach of social media.Ndior’s interest in digital law and online misinformation stems from his time as a doctoral student in international law in the early days of social media. He began analysing posts from governments and heads of state to determine if they could be considered official and thus used as evidence in litigation. His work attracted media attention and led to conference and speaking invitations. "This was not part of my plan," he says, "but this is what happens as a researcher — your interest is sparked by a certain event or phenomenon, and it suddenly becomes your focus."Ndior believes SCTT provides "a double benefit" for researchers, enabling them to connect with peers and interact with the public. "There is a wide community of people who are not in academia who are critical thinkers looking for opportunities to ask questions, to get information and contribute their ideas,” he says. "I really value that kind of feedback."Science|Business, which connects policymakers, academics and industry through its news reporting, analysis and events, is an SCTT partner.
Navigating the social media minefield
Scientists and researchers seeking to announce promising findings, exchange ideas or contribute to policy discussions outside of academic circles may find social media an expedient tool.But increasingly, scientists and other professionals are discovering that online platforms can be a double-edged sword: while sharing their work and expertise is crucial for visibility and meeting funder expectations, it also exposes them to baseless criticism and even accusations of spreading false information."It is getting harder and harder for scientists, and researchers in general, to convey their findings without facing attacks on their legitimacy and accuracy of their research," says Valère Ndior, a professor of public law at the University of Western Brittany in Brest, France, who has spent more than a decade studying misinformation on social media. Researchers attempting to challenge deceptive online information may themselves be accused of political bias or not being objective in their research, he explains, adding that some scientists disengage because they feel overwhelmed and unable to sustain meaningful dialogue. "It is quite sad to see in some instances that researchers end up leaving social media altogether because they feel like the pressure is getting too intense or feel threatened," he says.Ndior, a past president of the Francophone Network of International Law, is also involved in European efforts to make science and research findings more accessible to the public. As an ambassador for the Science Comes to Town (SCTT) project, he has participated in recent discussions on public perceptions of science and online misinformation. The European Commission-funded initiative connects Brest and two other cities — Kiel in Germany and Split in Croatia — and aims to strengthen ties between communities, universities and research institutions to promote science awareness and cooperation across Europe.Coordinated campaigns around contentious topicsNdior draws a clear distinction between critical thinking and thoughtless criticism. Yet he sees online discussions being increasingly shaped by suspicious behaviour and coordinated information campaigns — including "raids" aimed at dominating discussions and "astroturfing," where small groups act as larger movements to sway debates. Tracking these patterns has become harder because some platforms have restricted data or charge for it, despite provisions of the European Union's Digital Securities Act aimed at ensuring researchers can have access to such data. According to Ndior, "platforms became more reluctant from the moment access to data became a legal requirement rather than a voluntary initiative."Unfounded claims and scepticism about science existed long before Internet chat groups. But the noticeable rise in online hostility has intensified around contentious topics, such as the coronavirus pandemic and climate change, alongside the weakening of gatekeepers to moderate content.For Ndior, dubious claims about pandemic countermeasures and vaccine safety highlighted the struggle between "balancing freedom of expression and the protection of public health and order." Efforts to remove social media content deemed false or risky for public health triggered accusations of censorship and the silencing of legitimate discussion, and in some cases, legal challenges.Concerns about attacks on the credibility of scientists and researchers have generated a flurry of academic papers in recent years and prompted professional communities to address ways to counter online attacks. Such unease extends to the generation that has grown up with digital media. Ndior points out that his students, some of whom research artificial intelligence regulation, hate speech, online surveillance and other controversial topics, hesitate to share their work or viewpoints online. "Many of them don't want to expose themselves too much because they don't feel ready to be faced with the backlash of other people criticising their research," he explains.Safer harbours for engagementLegal challenges against false or defamatory posts are not necessarily a solution — especially given the trans-jurisdictional nature of the Internet. Lawsuits also take time and money, and if they fail, can be counterproductive. Instead, Ndior advises scientists and researchers to be selective in how and where they communicate. Professional online platforms and moderated discussion spaces offer a better environment for engagement. He also highlights the value of more traditional formats, such as radio interviews and in-person discussions at schools, libraries and science fairs, which encourage dialogue with the public. "Personal contact makes a big difference," he says, while acknowledging that these approaches lack the global reach of social media.Ndior’s interest in digital law and online misinformation stems from his time as a doctoral student in international law in the early days of social media. He began analysing posts from governments and heads of state to determine if they could be considered official and thus used as evidence in litigation. His work attracted media attention and led to conference and speaking invitations. "This was not part of my plan," he says, "but this is what happens as a researcher — your interest is sparked by a certain event or phenomenon, and it suddenly becomes your focus."Ndior believes SCTT provides "a double benefit" for researchers, enabling them to connect with peers and interact with the public. "There is a wide community of people who are not in academia who are critical thinkers looking for opportunities to ask questions, to get information and contribute their ideas,” he says. "I really value that kind of feedback."Science|Business, which connects policymakers, academics and industry through its news reporting, analysis and events, is an SCTT partner.
The Guardian view on peptides: Robert F Kennedy Jr would leave public health policy to the hucksters
Editorial: The US health secretary says he is a big fan of peptides. Many are promising drugs, but the only way to know their utility is proper clinical trials
Researcher invited by McInnis gives talk touting investment in science
As a part of University President Maurie McInnis’ Presidential Lecture Series, Harvey Fineberg, an emeritus professor at Harvard’s public health school, criticized the federal government’s cuts to funding for scientific research.
Toxic Ocean Crisis in Papua New Guinea Sparks Mass Marine Die-Off and Public Health Emergency
Thousands of dead fish are washing ashore and people are falling ill too, as officials investigate possible sources of contamination.
Better Communication for Better Health: A Conversation with Angela McGowan, JD, MPH - Free Public Health Webinar - Public Health Communications Collaborative
Join us for practical strategies on how communicators can protect, advocate for, and strengthen the public health field through a policy lens.
To protect public health, California must embrace clean transportation
“Diesel pollution is linked to asthma, heart disease, lung cancer, premature death and harm to children’s developing lungs and brains.”
Kaua‘i District Health Office to host open house for National Public Health Week
The county district health office is inviting the public to learn about public health services, programs and job opportunities on April 10.
NMSU public health professor to receive national health equity award
The Society for Public Health Education will bestow its 2026 Dorothy Nyswander Health Equity Award to Elizabeth England-Kennedy of New Mexico State University’s Department of Public Health...
Adams County admonishes ICE detention center over poor access, communication during public health investigation
The Adams County Health Department did not identify anyone meeting the case definition of an outbreak during the on-site investigation.
Public Health Week focuses on well-being of URI community
KINGSTON, R.I. – March 27, 2026 – A full week of health-related activities are scheduled at the University of Rhode Island from April 6-12 to celebrate National Public Health Week. Similar events will be held nationally. Public Health Week will be hosted by the URI Department of Public Health, with support from Dean Patrick Vivier […]
Innamorato issues executive order to improve restaurant permit process following Health Department changes
Allegheny County Executive Sara Innamorato on Monday signed an executive order aimed at streamlining the county’s restaurant permitting process. The effort will engage multiple departments to assess where the food permitting process could be improved while maintaining public health and safety. A news release from the County Executive’s Office states
Public health alert issued for raw beef, pork. See affected products.
A public health alert was issued for select Blackwing raw beef and pork products on March 25 because they were not federally inspected.
The 'Healthy Choice Waiver' is not about health — it’s about controlling the poor
Regulating the behavior of those already struggling does not address public health issues.
Researcher invited by McInnis gives talk touting investment in science
As a part of University President Maurie McInnis’ Presidential Lecture Series, Harvey Fineberg, an emeritus professor at Harvard’s public health school, criticized the federal government’s cuts to funding for scientific research.