Recent health updates include a high yellow fever risk in the Americas with increased cases outside the Amazon, a human H5N1 case in China likely imported from Vietnam, Moderna's filing for an updated COVID vaccine targeting the LP.8.1 sublineage, a study suggesting that rubella vaccination in 19 countries could prevent nearly 1 million CRS cases by 2055, and WHO monitoring the emerging SARS-CoV-2 NB.1.8.1 variant, which shows limited immune evasion and is under close observation.
The USDA has been criticized for not sharing enough information about the outbreaks of H5N1 avian flu in dairy cattle, leaving scientists and experts in the dark about the risks posed to cattle operations and people. Concerns have been raised about the virus potentially evolving to infect cattle more easily and the lack of transparency hindering global risk assessment. The USDA has been slow in releasing genetic sequences and information, leading to distrust and concerns about pandemic preparedness. The movement of H5N1 into cows is a concern for the industry and scientists, as it could potentially lead to transmission to humans and other animals. The lack of transparency and clear communication from the USDA has been highlighted as a significant issue in managing the outbreaks.
Highly pathogenic H5N1 avian flu has been detected in penguins for the first time in the Antarctic region, with confirmed cases in gentoo penguins and suspected cases in king penguins, raising concerns about the virus's spread to Antarctica's wildlife. Meanwhile, an analysis of 99 studies found that immunosuppressed populations, including solid-organ transplant recipients and cancer patients, have higher mortality rates from COVID-19, prompting the need for prioritizing medical resources. Additionally, a cluster of nontuberculosis mycobacteria skin infections linked to a Florida cosmetic surgery clinic has been reported, leading to an investigation and the identification of gaps in infection control. Furthermore, chronic wasting disease has been identified in a mule deer in Wyoming, and quick takes include the review of an RSV vaccine for younger adults, a measles alert in the Americas, and Zimbabwe's cholera vaccination campaign.
