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Without Science, America’s Prosperity Is At Risk
From vaccines to semiconductors, the scientific method made the U.S. a superpower. Abandoning it could reverse decades of progress.
Newsom Picks a Dogfight With Trump and RFK Jr. on Public Health
Scientists are cheering California Gov. Gavin Newsom as he builds a public health bulwark against health secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s anti-vaccine stance and President Donald Trump’s withdrawal from the World Health Organization. Still, federal cuts have sapped morale and left local health departments less prepared for outbreaks.
Times Opinion: Diseases don’t care about politics. Vaccines save Tennesseans’ lives
As a family physician in Tennessee, I have the privilege of caring for people at every stage of life, from newborns to grandparents, often all within the same family.
Does growing vaccine hesitancy include pet inoculations?
When physicians discuss vaccine hesitancy, they’re usually talking about human vaccines. But there’s evidence that as skepticism and opposition...
FDA’s controversial vaccine chief will exit agency next month
The US Food and Drug Administration’s head of vaccines and biologic medicines will leave the agency at the end of April, a spokesperson confirmed to CNN on Friday.
FDA vaccine chief to leave the agency for a second time
Dr. Vinay Prasad will step down in April after a controversial year at the FDA.
Controversial top vaccine regulator to depart FDA
Vinay Prasad, the top regulator overseeing vaccines and complex treatments for difficult diseases, had previously lost his job in July before getting it back less than two weeks later.
Divisive F.D.A. Vaccine Regulator Resigns
Dr. Vinay Prasad drew criticism for decisions that overrode agency scientists and rejected potential drugs.
Exclusive | FDA’s Controversial Vaccines Chief Will Leave the Agency
Dr. Vinay Prasad will depart in April, after a year leading the division that approves vaccines and biotech drugs.
Measles is 'worse than expected' in Utah, officials say
Measles patients in Utah are developing severe complications, health officials say, including potentially life-threatening anemia and liver inflammation.
Scientists Are On the Cusp of Releasing the First Universal Vaccine
Microbial threats against human health are only growing. Luckily, researchers are developing new vaccines that are up to the challenge.
Measles is not the only disease on the rise. Mumps also may be making a comeback
The FDA approved a vaccine for mumps nearly 60 years ago, so why are some areas of the United States experiencing outbreaks now, and who should be concerned?
NY health commissioner McDonald battles RFK Jr.'s vaccine skepticism
The state Department of Health reaches its 125th year and pushes back against the vaccine skepticism of U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
The global fallout of RFK Jr's vaccine policies
In his role as Secretary of Health and Human Services, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. is changing how the United States approaches vaccines. But those changes aren’t limited to the United States. NPR global health correspondent Gabrielle Emanuel joins Short Wave to talk about two examples of how the global public health landscape may be shifting. First, the United States’ ultimatum to an international vaccine group. Second, the uncertain fate of a vaccine trial. Some researchers are calling the trial a “unique” opportunity, and others are calling it “unethical.” Read more of global health correspondent Gabrielle Emanuel’s work here.Interested in more global health? Email us your question at shortwave@npr.org.Listen to every episode of Short Wave sponsor-free and support our work at NPR by signing up for Short Wave+ at plus.npr.org/shortwave.
Universal Vaccine Blocks Viruses, Bacteria, And Allergies With a Nasal Spray
One vaccine to rule them all.
Trump can’t break free from vaccine politics
Trump is trying to shift the focus toward healthy eating and cheaper drugs. But vaccines keeping coming back up.
Acting CDC director Bhattacharya urges measles vaccines
Jay Bhattacharya, the recently appointed acting director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), on Monday urged families to consider vaccinating against measles as outbreaks acros…
A swine flu case to keep tabs on
The "godfather of vaccines," a case of swine flu, and other health news from Morning Rounds
Measles is back in California. Health departments are fighting it with less.
California is battling measles outbreaks across seven counties as federal funding cuts gut local health departments and vaccine skepticism fuels spread among unvaccinated children.
As Trump urges GOP to retreat from anti-vax rhetoric, DeSantis doubles down on exemption bill amid rising measles cases
Florida advances exemptions as national GOP moderates vaccine tone
Measles outbreaks could cost the U.S. over a $1 billion a year, if vaccine rates decline
As vaccination rates decline, the economic consequences will increase, research suggests.
After CDC vaccine changes, states push to keep childhood shots free, accessible
Proposed legislation raises concern over “fractured” vaccine policies across the U.S.
Echoing RFK, Dr. Casey Means softens her social media persona in surgeon general bid
Means once said that birth control had “horrifying health risks” and newborns shouldn’t get hepatitis B vaccines. She adopted a more measured tone at Wednesday's Senate hearing.
The WHO Chief Thinks Trump Is Missing a Political Opportunity
WHO’s Dr. Tedros combats vaccine skeptics, a $3,000 minipig powers Europe’s drug pipeline, and we appear to be entering our trillionaire era.
European health agency recommends approving Moderna’s combined flu, COVID vaccine
The European Medicines Agency (EMA) announced Friday it has recommended Moderna’s combined mRNA COVID-19 and flu vaccine be granted market authorization in the European Union, marking the fir…
Vanderbilt Health Pets of the Day: Momo and Smokey
Today’s first Dog of the Day is Momo, submitted by Ginger DeBellis of the Vanderbilt Vaccine Center. “Momo is a sweet and super smart blue merle Australian shepard who loves learning new tricks, neighbor watching and snuggles.“ Today’s second Dog of the Day is Smokey, submitted by Haley Villacorta of Population Health. “Smokey is a Pomsky (Pomeranian and Siberian husky mix).” Pets of the Day — what you need to know The Vanderbilt Health Pets of the Day are included in regular editions of the MyVUMC News newsletter, which is posted twice a week by Vanderbilt Health News and Communications. The pets are selected from the hundreds of entries sent to the Voice Pet Photo Contest. For those who submitted a photo to that contest, watch MyVUMC News for Pets of the Day, and in addition, regular collections of pet photos are posted to the Voice site. You can see them all here: https://news.vumc.org/section/voice/pets-vumc/. If you have a pet you would like to nominate for Pet of the Day, the next Pet Photo Contest submission period is coming up later this year, and will be announced in MyVUMC News. Momo and Smokey were featured in the March 3, 2026, edition of MyVUMC News.
RFK Jr. vaccine panel to discuss long COVID, vaccine injuries in next meeting
The CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, or ACIP, is now scheduled to meet on March 18 and 19.
C.D.C.’s New Acting Director Draws Unexpected Praise from Agency Staff
Dr. Jay Bhattacharya, who was appointed to the role last week, has offered to publicly endorse vaccination, in particular the measles vaccine, winning over some agency employees.
RFK Jr. focuses on food as GOP fears midterm backlash to vaccine agenda
Health chief Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is on tour to tout his MAHA food initiatives and drug pricing over vaccines, an issue GOP pollsters see as a liability.
States Sue to Block Trump’s ‘Anti-Science’ Vaccine Policy
Climate change helps spread vaccine-preventable diseases. But the Trump administration’s reduced vaccine schedule “throws science out the window,” and makes Americans more vulnerable to infections, state attorneys general charge in a new lawsuit.
Surgeon general nominee Means questioned about vaccines, birth control and financial conflicts
During a confirmation hearing, senators asked Dr. Casey Means about her current positions and her past statements on a range of public health issues.
Rabies vaccine recall prompts warning to pet owners from Allegheny County Health Department
Kennedy is funding dangerous science to validate his anti-vaccine agenda
The fact that the U.S. actually sanctioned the study is deeply troubling.
Americans trust vaccines, school mandates, rejecting Trump agenda, Reuters/Ipsos poll finds
A bipartisan majority of Americans believe vaccines are safe and that children should receive them to attend school, according to a new Reuters/Ipsos poll, illustrating the challenges President Donald Trump's administration faces to win broad support for upending decades of health policy.
Hearing for surgeon general pick Casey Means to test MAHA agenda
Casey Means, Trump’s nominee for surgeon general, will face senators asking questions about her medical credentials, stance on vaccines and RFK Jr.’s agenda.
Allegheny Co. Health Department warns pet parents about rabies vaccine recall
Dems plot health oversight blitz if they win midterms
Two top targets are the administration's drug pricing deals and its moves to limit vaccine recommendations.
States sue Trump administration over changes to childhood vaccine recommendations
SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — More than a dozen states sued the Trump administration Tuesday over its rollback of vaccine recommendations for children, calling the move an illegal threat to public health.
15 States Sue the Trump Administration Over Vaccine Schedule Revisions
Federal health officials have pared back the number of shots recommended for children. The states, led by Democrats, say the changes were not based on science.
Recent studies challenge Kennedy’s claims about vaccines, Tylenol and antidepressants
The Trump administration has pledged to conduct its own studies, but research continues to contradict its claims.
Hepatitis B vaccine rates are dropping
After a period of growth, the percentage of newborns being vaccinated against hepatitis B has seen significant declines in the last couple years, research finds
Hospitals fighting this virus confront a challenge – few doctors have seen it
As the Carolinas near 1,000 cases, health care workers who’ve never seen this vaccine-preventable disease can get caught by surprise.
Hospitals Fighting Measles Confront a Challenge: Few Doctors Have Seen It Before
As the number of cases grows to about 1,000 in the Carolinas, health care workers who’ve never seen the vaccine-preventable disease can get caught by surprise.
Another C.D.C. Vaccine Skeptic Steps Down
Dr. Ralph Abraham, the agency’s principal deputy director, has called the Covid vaccines “dangerous.” Other skeptics have recently left federal health roles.
Virginia health department defies Trump vaccine changes
State officials say the federal shift on childhood vaccines wasn't backed by evidence.
PRET for impact: Advancing pandemic preparedness in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea
IN THE SPOTLIGHT PRET for impact: Advancing pandemic preparedness in the Democratic People’s Republic of KoreaThe Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPR Korea) is making significant progress in strengthening pandemic preparedness, with dedicated support from the WHO South‑East Asia Regional Office (SEARO) and the Pandemic Influenza Preparedness (PIP) Partnership Contribution (PC).Aligned with the WHO Global Influenza Strategy and the Pandemic Influenza Preparedness (PIP) Framework Partnership Contribution High‑Level Implementation Plan III (2024–2030), the country is strengthening its capacity to prepare for and respond to influenza and other respiratory threats. In early 2025, a core team from the Ministry of Public Health of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) participated in a two‑day virtual workshop, which included a mini‑simulation exercise. The workshop was organized by WHO SEARO in collaboration with the Preparedness and Resilience for Emerging Threats (PRET) Secretariat at WHO headquarters and the WHO Country Office for the DPRK. Read more A REGIONAL CONSULTATION GUIDES WHO SEARO IN DEVELOPING A ROADMAP FOR IMPLEMENTING THE PREPPAREDNESS AND RESILIENCE FOR EMERGING THREATS (PRET) INITIATIVE BASED RESPIRATORY PATHOGEN PANDEMIC PREPAREDNESSInfluenza and other respiratory pathogens with pandemic potential continue to pose major public health risks globally. To strengthen regional preparedness and response, Member States of the WHO South‑East Asia Region (SEAR) convened in Colombo, Sri Lanka, to review and provide input on the draft Roadmap and Action Framework for Broad Respiratory Pathogen Pandemic Planning (2026–2031). Supported through the Pandemic Influenza Preparedness (PIP) Partnership Contribution (PC) funds, the proposed roadmap aims to advance robust, integrated preparedness and response capacities for influenza and other respiratory threats across SEAR. This work is aligned with the Preparedness and Resilience for Emerging Threats (PRET) initiative and the SEAR Strategic Roadmap on Health Security and Health System Resilience for Emergencies Read moreSRI LANKA’S USE OF ANTIVIRALS TO REDUCE THE SEASONAL INFLUENZA BURDEN Sri Lanka is strengthening its influenza response by placing greater emphasis on rapid testing, timely treatment, and integration with maternal health services. With support from WHO, the country is building a stronger evidence base on the burden of influenza and the value of vaccination, advancing a holistic approach to protect vulnerable populations and enhance pandemic preparedness. To reduce hospitalizations and deaths from seasonal influenza, Sri Lanka is taking proactive steps to expand access to rapid diagnostic testing and ensure prompt initiation of treatment. National clinical guidelines recommend the use of oseltamivir for individuals at high risk of complications, helping prevent severe illness and shorten the duration of infection. This strategy not only saves lives but also supports local pharmaceutical production, contributing to a reliable supply of antivirals for both seasonal outbreaks and future pandemics.Read moreBHUTAN BOOSTS PANDEMIC INFLUENZA READINESS WITH PANDEMIC INFLUENZA PREPAREDNESS FRAMEWORK PARTNERSHIP CONTRIBUTION SUPPORTED TRAINING AND SIMULATIONSOriginally developed in 2012, the National Influenza Pandemic Preparedness and Response Plan (NIPPRP) has long served as Bhutan’s central framework for managing influenza threats. In 2024, the plan underwent a comprehensive update to reflect evolving global and regional guidance, lessons learned from the COVID‑19 pandemic, and new capacities developed under the PIP Framework. The revised NIPPRP is now more clearly aligned with Bhutan’s broader emergency and disaster risk management structures, ensuring a coordinated, whole‑of‑government approach to pandemic response. As part of efforts to strengthen national pandemic preparedness, Bhutan conducted three national‑level training sessions followed by simulation exercises on influenza pandemic preparedness and response at five sentinel hospitals between April and May 2025, with support from the PIP Partnership Contribution (PC). These activities brought together more than 140 health professionals and key partners from across the country, with a focus on operationalizing the updated NIPPRP and enhancing readiness at key frontline facilities. Read moreSTRENGTHENING INFLUENZA SURVEILLANCE: WHO BRINGS TOGETHER INFLUENZA EXPERTS FROM SOUTH-EAST ASIA AND WESTERN PACIFIC REGIONSThe World Health Organization (WHO) convened the 18th Bi‑regional Meeting of National Influenza Centres (NICs) and Influenza Surveillance for the WHO South‑East Asia and Western Pacific Regions from 9–11 September 2025. Hosted by the WHO South‑East Asia Regional Office (SEARO), the meeting brought together representatives from Member States, Territories, and Areas across both regions, alongside experts from the WHO Collaborating Centres for Reference and Research on Influenza in Australia and Japan, the WHO Collaborating Centre for Studies on the Ecology of Influenza in Animals in the United States, quadripartite partners (WOAH and FAO), and other technical counterparts. The consultation provided a platform to review progress, share experiences, and outline priorities for strengthening influenza and respiratory pathogen surveillance across the two WHO regions.Read moreNETWORKS AND TECHNICAL PARTNERSHIPSSTRENGTHENING PANDEMIC READINES: SOUTH-EAST ASIA ADVANCES UNITY STUDIES UNDER THE PANDEMIC INFLUENZA PREPAREDNESS INITIATIVEThe WHO Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System (GISRS) Investigations & Studies initiative, also known as Unity Studies, provides a standardized, globally coordinated framework to support these efforts. Originally developed for influenza and adapted during COVID-19, Unity Studies enable countries to conduct rapid, nationally led investigations and studies to assess transmissibility, severity, susceptibility, and intervention effectiveness. To better prepare for future influenza pandemics, WHO has recently launched a network of sites which will be ready to conduct these investigations and studies rapidly in the event of a pandemic, or epidemic of an emerging or re-emerging respiratory pathogen. The WHO South-East Asia Region now hosts six sites of WHO GISRS Unity Studies across the five countries including Sri Lanka, strengthening regional capacity for early pandemic investigations. From 13–16 July 2025 in Colombo, the Global Public Health Summit offered an opportunity to advance this agenda. Read moreSTRENGTHENING PANDEMIC PREPAREDNESS THROUGH UNITY STUDIES: REAL-WORLD APPLICATIONS FROM INDIA IN WHO’S SOUTH-EAST ASIA REGION As countries continue to strengthen their pandemic preparedness through investments in resilient health systems during the interpandemic period, the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System (GISRS) Investigations & Studies Global Initiative, Global Initiative, commonly known as Unity Studies, remains a vital framework for respiratory pathogen pandemic preparedness. These standardized epidemiological protocols enable countries to rapidly generate high‑quality data on transmissibility, infection severity, population immunity, and the effectiveness of public health interventions. To highlight how Unity Studies protocols are being adapted and applied in national settings, WHO Headquarters, together with WHO Regional Offices, including the WHO South‑East Asia Regional Office (SEARO), hosted a global webinar. The session showcased case studies from India and the United Kingdom (UK), demonstrating innovative approaches to respiratory virus surveillance and pandemic readiness. Read moreSTRENGTHENING REGIONAL INFLUENZA SURVEILLANCE AND PREPAREDNESS: WHO SEARO HOSTS HIGH-LEVEL WEBINAR AMID RISING H5 THREATS In response to the increasing detection of avian influenza A(H5) cases in humans globally and within the WHO South‑East Asia Region, the WHO Regional Office for South‑East Asia (SEARO) convened a regional webinar on 25 July 2025 to review preparedness mechanisms, strengthen surveillance pathways, and promote timely reporting of unusual respiratory events. The virtual session brought together more than 50 participants from Ministries of Health, National Influenza Centres (NICs), National IHR Focal Points (NFPs), WHO Headquarters, WHO Country Offices across the Region, and WHO Collaborating Centres (CCs) for influenza. The webinar provided an opportunity to share situational updates, discuss surveillance gaps, and reinforce coordination mechanisms critical for early detection and rapid response to avian influenza threats. Read moreOther Key PIP Updates (July-December 2025)MEMBER STATES:Bangladesh drafted and conducted a series of Core Group Meetings in 2025 to review and update the National Pandemic Preparedness and Response Plan for Respiratory Pathogens. In addition, the country carried out Rapid Response Team (RRT) trainings on seasonal and avian influenza and other re‑emerging infectious diseases. Bangladesh also updated its epidemiological data‑training programme for physicians at sentinel surveillance sites, using a revised epidemiological data‑collection tool.Bhutan revised and updated its National Influenza Pandemic Preparedness and Response Plan (NIPPRP) in 2025 and developed a national Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for influenza outbreak management. DPR Korea conducted a nationwide simulation exercise in July 2025 to support the update of its National Influenza Pandemic Preparedness Plan (2019). This followed a PRET‑based virtual orientation and mini‑simulation exercise held in May 2025 by SEARO and the WHO PRET Secretariat. The comprehensive exercise, conducted across central and provincial levels, assessed strengths and gaps in pandemic influenza preparedness and response. The feedback gathered has been incorporated into the revised draft plan to address identified weaknesses and strengthen overall readiness.India conducted a targeted nationwide online re‑orientation training on review and updates to the influenza portal for all State Surveillance Officers (SSOs) and relevant officials using the Integrated Health Information Platform (IHIP). The training emphasized correct marking and reporting of influenza samples as “unsubtypable” or “not subtyped” where applicable, to ensure accurate national surveillance.Maldives conducted simulation exercises in three atolls based on its existing National Pandemic Preparedness and Response Plan (NPPRP). The country plans to conduct similar exercises in three additional atolls after updating the NPPRP in 2026. In addition, Maldives conducted training on FluID and FluMart as part of a broader data‑management training package for Ministry of Health and Health Protection Agency officials, aimed at improving routine reporting to WHO platforms and the DHIS2 system.In Myanmar, technical support was provided to the National Influenza Centre (NIC) through dedicated human‑resource support (January–December 2025) to sustain data management and laboratory detection capacity for influenza and other emerging and re‑emerging respiratory viruses. This support also included strengthening genomic sequencing capacity.Nepal conducted a consultative workshop on the National Pandemic Preparedness and Response Plan (NPPRP) in July 2025. The workshop engaged key stakeholders from multiple sectors to review lessons from past pandemic responses, assess current mechanisms, and gather critical inputs for strengthening national preparedness. Key recommendations included revising the 2019 NPPRP and developing an updated Influenza Pandemic Preparedness Plan aligned with emerging risks, national priorities, and relevant international frameworks. Nepal also held a two day workshop dedicated to advancing the National Action Plan for Genomic Surveillance, aimed at reinforcing the country’s capacities for early detection and monitoring of emerging respiratory pathogens.Sri Lanka received the final report from WHO on the feasibility assessment for conducting an Influenza Burden of Disease (BoD) study in the country. The assessment, conducted from 28 April to 9 May 2025, included a desk review of existing data sources, document review, visits to sentinel surveillance sites, and key informant interviews. The study identified critical data sources required for a future BoD assessment, as well as their availability and quality. Officials from the Epidemiology Unit, the National Influenza Centre (NIC), and SARI/ILI sentinel hospitals across the country participated in the assessment.Timor Leste conducted on‑the‑job training and monitoring activities at two sentinel surveillance sites to strengthen surveillance and laboratory capacity for the detection of SARI, ILI, ARI, and other respiratory infections. REGIONAL OFFICE:SEARO conducted a Member States Consultation on the first draft of the Regional Roadmap and Strategic Action Framework for implementing WHO’s PRET‑based broad respiratory pathogen pandemic planning for 2026–2031. The consultation took place on 29–30 October 2025 during the final two days of the Regional PIP PC Annual Review and PRET Meeting in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Participants included representatives from Member States, WHO Country Offices, WHO SEARO, WHO Headquarters, partner agencies, and invited multidisciplinary technical experts. They reviewed the draft and provided detailed feedback, which has since been incorporated into a revised version. The consultation helped shape a shared regional vision for robust, PRET‑aligned pandemic preparedness, building on country‑level progress, addressing existing gaps and challenges, and aligning with global and regional health security frameworks. The publication is planned for release during the SEAR regional committee in 2026.SEARO documented the evolution of the National Influenza Pandemic Preparedness Planning process in the Region, tracing its development from its origins as a planning tool for responding to avian influenza outbreaks in 2006, through the experiences of the 2009 and 2019 pandemics, to the current status. The document outlines the way forward for respiratory pathogen pandemic planning across all 10 SEAR countries, aligning future national plans with WHO’s PRET Framework for broad respiratory pathogen pandemic preparedness.The Infectious Hazard Management (IHM) Unit has drafted the WHO South‑East Asia Regional Guidance on Influenza Prevention and Control, aligned with the Global Influenza Strategy and other regional initiatives. The draft is currently under review. Although this technical product was developed in response to a request from the Ministry of Public Health of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (MoPH‑DPRK), SEARO is finalizing it for use not only in DPRK but also across all Member States in the Region.The Immunization and Vaccine Development (IVD) Unit, in collaboration with WHE/SEARO, completed a regional landscape analysis on key barriers, challenges, and opportunities for the introduction of seasonal influenza vaccination in WHO South‑East Asia Regional (SEAR) countries.Additionally, the Immunization and Vaccine Development (IVD) Unit has completed a regional landscape analysis of influenza vaccine procurement systems across the WHO South‑East Asia Region (SEAR).KEY MEETINGS AND PUBLICATIONSMEETINGS:Six-month progress review of the implementation of the PIP-PC workplans in SEAR, focusing on Outputs 1 and 2 for the period January to June 2025, and held virtually across three sessions on 4, 8, and 10 July 2025. Read moreAnnual Regional Meeting (Hybrid) on Pandemic Influenza Preparedness (PIP) Partnership Contribution (PC) and WHO’s Preparedness and Resilience for Emerging Threats (PRET) Implementation in SEAR in Colombo, Sri Lanka, 27 to 30 October 2025. Read more18th Bi-regional Meeting (Virtual) of National Influenza Centres (NICs) and influenza surveillance in WHO South-East Asia and Western Pacific Regions from 9 to 11 September 2025. Read morePUBLICATIONSImplications of influenza A virus surveillance in Southeast Asian Region countries: a scoping review of approaches for the surveillance of swine influenza viruses at human-swine interfaces. Read moreAnnual South-East Asia regional meeting on operational planning for implementation of global influenza strategy and preparedness for respiratory viruses in 2025 Report on annual review meeting of implementation of pandemic influenza preparedness (PIP) partnership Contribution (PC) Fund in South-East Asia Region and the simulation exercise on PRET Status of influenza in who south-East Asia Region
Inside RFK Jr.’s long-running crusade against the flu vaccine
Trump’s health secretary has halted federal flu vaccine promotions, citing personal beliefs about vaccine risks.
February 20, 2026
Autism has long been thought of as a condition that mostly affects boys, but data suggest that’s not true. Plus, an update on the first state-run psilocybin therapy programs, and why the American Medical Association is joining an effort to launch an independent vaccine review panel. And, what record-low snowpack in Utah and Colorado means for the region's water supply.
Fauci discusses HIV cure, renewed trust in medical research
"You know, an anti-science attitude together with an anti-vaccine attitude is not very good for the public health of the country or the world," Fauci said.
Healthy Returns: FDA chief Marty Makary on compounded GLP-1s, vaccines and China
Makary helms the FDA in the midst of a contentious stretch for the agency, defined by massive staff and budget cuts and sweeping changes to vaccine policy.
CDC postpones influential vaccine advisory panel's February meeting
Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has stepped up efforts to rewrite U.S. vaccination policy, dropping recommendations for six childhood shots.
Moderna got a win from the FDA, but political headwinds remain a concern for vaccine makers
The firestorm has highlighted the perilous environment that Moderna and other vaccine makers find themselves
Commentary: RFK Jr.'s attacks on vaccines could undermine American science for generations
RFK Jr.'s attacks on vaccines go beyond changing the childhood immunization schedule. Now he's taking aim at vaccine R&D itself.
Fewer Oregon babies getting hepatitis B vaccine, new state data shows
State officials say declining vaccination rates could reverse decades of progress against the highly infectious liver disease.
One Year of RFK Jr. Has Left Public Health Devastated
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. made a lot of promises on his way to becoming health secretary. He pledged to Make America Healthy Again, of course, and to restore trust in embattled health agencies. And he said he wouldn’t “take away anybody’s vaccines.”
Check your measles vaccine status amid surge, health providers say
Two shots of the MMR give widespread protection against measles.
Vaccine Makers Curtail Research and Cut Jobs
Federal policies under Robert F. Kennedy Jr. that are hostile to vaccines have “sent a chill through the entire industry,” one scientist said.
RFK Jr.’s allies are trying to free anti-vaccine doctors to speak their minds
They want the Supreme Court to allow physicians to buck the medical establishment when they advise patients and the public.
A year of upheaval: RFK Jr. in Trump's Cabinet
The health secretary turned his agencies toward skepticism of processed food and vaccines, but he’s faced pushback at every turn — including from Republicans.
Weekend reads: CDC’s ‘unethical’ vaccine trial; The Lancet ‘refuses to retract’ letter; on the methods used to correct science
If your week flew by — we know ours did — catch up here with what you might have missed. The week at Retraction Watch featured: Journal tags ‘impossible’ case report with short erratum Guest post: …
RFK Jr. Allies Target States to Overturn Vaccine Mandates for Schools
Proponents of vaccines warn that the efforts will further dismantle the immunization infrastructure and lead to more outbreaks of disease.
RFK Jr. Made Promises in Order To Become Health Secretary. He’s Broken Many of Them.
Before being confirmed to lead the Department of Health and Human Services, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. told U.S. senators he would not cut funding for vaccine research or change the nation’s official vaccine recommendations. He did both.
RFK Jr. made promises to get his job as health secretary. He's broken many of them
In his confirmation hearings, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. told U.S. senators that he would not cut funding for vaccine research or change the nation's official vaccine recommendations. He did both.
Vaccines are a national security issue, says global health official
Vaccines are a matter of national security, a leading global health figure said this week, warning that rising anti-vaccine sentiment worldwide could undermine efforts to fight future pandemics.
'DNA origami' could be key for making an effective HIV vaccine, early study hints
A new vaccine design uses folded DNA to steer the immune system toward producing the rare immune cells needed to make protective antibodies against HIV.
Why MAHA wants the US to be more like Denmark
In remaking U.S. vaccine policy, Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and his “Make America Healthy Again” (MAHA) allies have repeatedly called for the U.S. t…
Eyeing the midterms, Kennedy pivots toward food and away from vaccines
Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who focused heavily on vaccine policy in 2025, will spend this year talking up healthy eating.
Partners discuss improving pooled procurement of emergency medical countermeasures
On 13 January 2026, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the European Commission’s Health Emergency Preparedness and Response Authority (DG HERA) brought together regional partners in Brussels for a workshop focused on pooled procurement of medical countermeasures – including diagnostics, treatments and vaccines – for health emergencies.
US FDA declines Moderna flu vaccine review amid vaccine guidance rollback
CEO Stephane Bancel said the letter refusing review did not cite 'any safety or efficacy concerns'.
A Tragedy of Early COVID Has Finally Been Explained
Dangerous blood clotting associated with certain vaccines had a genetic cause, according to a new paper.
Cancer vaccine shows promise against HPV-related throat tumors in early study
If proven effective in humans, the vaccine could complement standard therapies for HPV-driven cancer, as well as inform the design of therapeutic vaccines for other diseases.
U.S. Health Officials Defend Rejection of Moderna’s Flu Vaccine
The F.D.A.’s refusal to examine the company’s mRNA shot drew widespread criticism from doctors and was divisive within the agency.
FDA won’t review Moderna application for first mRNA-based flu vaccine
The decision, which shocked company officials, comes as the FDA says it will take a stricter approach to federal vaccine approvals.
Top medical groups join forces to review vaccine science as CDC faces criticism
The American Medical Association is launching an effort to evaluate vaccine safety and effectiveness independently of U.S. government health agencies
Polls: 90% of Americans want vaccine access, for US to be global science, tech leader
Nearly all (89%) say vaccines are essential for public health, including 97% of Democrats, 89% of independents, and 82% of Republicans.
As measles outbreak rages, public health expert says making vaccines optional 'boggles the mind'
More than 920 people are now infected with measles in South Carolina as the outbreak there grows, and smaller outbreaks hit Florida, Arizona and Utah.
AMA joins effort to launch vaccine science review amid CDC turmoil
The American Medical Association and a partner group are taking on a new role in reviewing vaccine safety and effectiveness as the CDC’s review process faces criticism.
Scientists Close In on Breakthrough Vaccine for a Global Health Threat
A new vaccine approach could offer protection against chikungunya by safely mimicking the virus and activating the immune system.
Trump administration to cut $600 million in health funding from 4 states
The Trump administration plans to rescind $600 million in public health funds from four states led by Democrats because it finds the grants “inconsistent with agency priorities,. according to documents.
3 measles cases confirmed in DC — possible exposures at Reagan National, March for Life
Health officials are warning about cases of the measles in people who spent time around D.C. and Virginia, including at Reagan Airport and the March for Life.
‘Take the vaccine, please,’ a top US health official says in an appeal as measles cases rise
A leading U.S. health official on Sunday urged people to get inoculated against the measles at a time of outbreaks across several states and as the United States is at risk of losing its measles el…
'Take the vaccine, please,' a top US health official says in an appeal as measles cases rise
A leading U.S. health official is urging people to get inoculated against the measles at a time of outbreaks across several states. The appeal is from Dr. Mehmet Oz, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services administrator. And it comes as the United States is at risk of losing its measles e...
‘Take the vaccine, please,’ a top US health official says in an appeal as measles cases rise
WASHINGTON (AP) — A leading U.S. health official on Sunday urged people to get inoculated against the measles at a time of outbreaks across several states and as the United States is at risk of losing…
'Take the vaccine, please,' a top US health official says in an appeal as measles cases rise
A leading U.S. health official is urging people to get inoculated against the measles at a time of outbreaks across several states
DC health officials warn of possible measles exposure at events, transit sites
Health officials are investigating confirmed measles cases after people who were contagious visited multiple locations across Washington, D.C.
Why US-funded vaccine trial plan for babies in Guinea-Bissau caused outrage
The health trial by researchers at the University of Southern Denmark has been suspended by Bissau-Guinean authorities.
KFF Tracking Poll on Health Information and Trust: Trust in the CDC and Views of Federal Childhood Vaccine Schedule Changes
Weeks after the Trump administration reduced the number of childhood vaccine recommended for routine use, public trust in the CDC is at its lowest since the COVID-19 pandemic, and less than half are confident in federal agencies' ability to make such recommendations. Among those who have heard about the revised recommendations, more say they expect the changes to have a negative impact than a positive one on children’s health.
Fear among Minnesota’s Somali community compounds a public health woe: Low measles vaccination rates
Public health officials say a measles crisis has long been brewing in Minnesota.
We have a miraculous anti-aging vaccine. Why aren’t more people getting it?
Research has found that a routine vaccine slows aging and cut dementia risk.
Health department will mine unverified vaccine injury claims with new AI tool
Experts worry it will be used to further Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s anti-vaccine agenda.
‘Saving Lives’: Comic book combines science & storytelling
How a collaboration between Belgian scientists and publishers put vaccination on the map at the World Expo in Japan
WHO announces restart of preventive cholera vaccinations after nearly 4-year halt
The World Health Organization has announced the restart of preventive cholera vaccination programs globally after they were halted for nearly four years due to a vaccine shortage
Measles outbreak linked to a Florida university, as cases keep rising in the U.S.
Ave Maria University near Naples has at least 12 cases.
Atrium Health reports influx of virus patients, urges vaccines and handwashing
Atrium Health warns people of spreading viruses in Georgia. Atrium Health has recently seen an influx of patients with several different viruses.
Cervical health awareness month emphasizes HPV vaccine benefits
January is Cervical Health Awareness Month, with doctors highlighting the importance of HPV vaccination and regular pap smear screenings to prevent cervical cancer.
US committee is reconsidering all vaccine recommendations
Move is dramatic departure for advisory group under Kirk Milhoan, who says he doesn’t like the term ‘established science’
Public Health Department confirms first 2026 measles case in Los Angeles County
The Department of Public Health confirms the first 2026 measles case in Los Angeles County, urges protection before traveling.
January 30, 2026
A flu variant called subclade K emerged too late to be fully covered by this year’s vaccine. But the flu shot can still help protect you. Plus, a new study suggests dogs began to diversify about 11,000 years earlier than we thought. And, in turbulent times, it helps to hear stories of resilience. What can we learn from 3.5 billion-year-old bacteria that eat light?
Measles cases in South Carolina rise by 58 to 847, state health department says
South Carolina reported 847 measles cases on Friday, state health data showed, including 58 additional infections since Tuesday, as officials warned the widening outbreak could last weeks or months amid lagging vaccine uptake.
Science-based vaccine policy passes first hurdle in the state legislature
The proposal is Colorado Democrats’ response to the Trump administration’s vaccine changes.