Tag

Public Health Efforts

All articles tagged with #public health efforts

health3 months ago

Northeast States Form Health Alliance to Counter Federal Vaccine Policies

Health officials from 10 Northeastern states have formed the Northeast Public Health Collaborative to coordinate vaccine guidance and public health efforts independently of the federal government, with New Hampshire notably not participating. The group aims to provide consistent recommendations, including COVID-19 vaccine guidance for children and pregnant women, contrasting recent federal changes under Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and the Trump administration. This regional effort is part of a broader trend of state-level health collaborations responding to federal policy shifts.

health1 year ago

"Pandemic's Lingering Impact: D.C. Report on HIV and STIs"

The annual District analysis revealed that rates of syphilis and other sexually transmitted infections in D.C. did not return to pre-pandemic levels in 2022, attributed to lingering covid-era challenges such as service interruptions and increased homelessness. New cases of HIV are down slightly, but syphilis cases among women and babies are up. Public health officials are working to boost access to care, especially for Black residents, by meeting people where they are and recruiting artists to share messages about prevention and treatment. The District is also experimenting with new ways to spread hopeful messages and practical information, and having success with a federally funded pilot program for residents on PrEP.

health2 years ago

"JN.1 Variant Surge Exposes COVID-19 Vaccine Disparities"

Racial health disparities in COVID-19 vaccination rates have resurfaced in Massachusetts, with lower rates among Black, Hispanic, and Native American residents compared to white and Asian residents. The disparities are also evident among seniors, with higher vaccination rates in wealthier communities. Similar patterns were observed with flu vaccination rates before the pandemic. Experts urge state officials to address the gaps and increase efforts to close the disparities. Meanwhile, as vaccination rates decline, the JN.1 variant, which is more transmissible and can evade defenses, is becoming dominant in the United States, leading to concerns of a COVID-19 surge over the holidays.

health2 years ago

Rising JN.1 variant and holiday illnesses challenge Covid vaccine rates

Racial health disparities in COVID-19 vaccination rates have resurfaced in Massachusetts, with lower rates among Black, Hispanic, and Native American residents compared to white and Asian residents. The vaccination rates correlate with income levels, with wealthier communities having higher rates. Disparities also extend to seniors, with lower rates in communities at higher risk of COVID-19. Experts emphasize the need for state officials to address these gaps and increase efforts to overcome vaccine hesitancy and access issues. The JN.1 variant, which is more transmissible and evasive, is becoming dominant in the US, making it crucial for at-risk individuals to receive booster shots.

health2 years ago

"Majority of Overweight Adults Struggle to Achieve Clinically Significant Weight Loss"

Only 1 in 10 individuals with overweight or obesity are able to lose at least 5% of their body weight, while achieving a healthy weight category is even less common, according to new research. Women and those with higher body mass index (BMI) had slightly better odds of achieving the 5% weight loss goal. However, the study highlights the need for improved access to obesity management options and community resources for nutrition and physical activity, particularly for populations disproportionately affected by obesity. Even a modest 5% weight loss has been associated with improved health measures.