MMWR: Flu Hospitalization Rates in the U.S are Highest Among Adults 65 and Older and Children Four and Younger
New data released in a recent MMRW states that flu hospitalization rates in the U.S. are highest among adults 65 and older and children under 4, with the 2022-2023 season showing a return to pre-pandemic levels after exceptionally low rates during the 2020-2021 season. Hospitalization data indicate a concerning decline in antiviral treatment among hospitalized patients, especially in children...
Enhancing Media Collaboration: October Session with CDC Regional Press Officers Now Available
NPHIC members recently joined a special session with CDC Regional Press Officers on October 16 to strengthen collaboration and streamline public health messaging. The meeting provided an overview of NPHIC’s structure, introduced CDC’s new regional press officers, and included interactive breakout sessions for members to connect with their regional media counterparts.
This valuable se...
Listen Up! Podcast: Harnessing AI for the Future of Public Health Communication
Explore how AI is set to revolutionize health communication in the latest episode of CDC’s podcast, Listen Up!, featuring Robert Jennings, Executive Director of the National Public Health Information Coalition. This episode dives into the transformative potential of AI for public health professionals, from delivering rapid solutions to improving communication strategies.
Experts disc...
November: Raising Awareness for Alzheimer’s Disease and Supporting Family Caregivers
November marks both National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month and National Family Caregivers Month, highlighting crucial public health topics. Public health professionals are encouraged to leverage partner toolkits to educate communities about Alzheimer's—focusing on early detection and adopting healthy habits that can reduce risks. Additionally, resources are available to support family c...
More Cases Reported in E. coli Outbreak Linked to McDonald’s Quarter Pounders
An outbreak of E. coli linked to McDonald’s Quarter Pounders has escalated, with the CDC reporting 90 total illnesses across multiple states. The CDC's latest update identifies fresh slivered onions served at McDonald's as the likely source of an E. coli outbreak. Since October 16, 2024, 15 new cases have been reported, and five additional hospitalizations bring the total to 27.
Whil...
Updated Guidance: Second Dose of COVID-19 Vaccine for Older Adults and Immunocompromised Individuals
The CDC now recommends that individuals aged 65 and older, as well as those who are moderately or severely immunocompromised, receive a second dose of the 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccine six months after their initial dose. This guideline, endorsed by CDC Director Mandy Cohen, highlights the increased risk of severe disease for these groups and emphasizes the importance of maintaining vaccination ...
Navigating Stress: Insights From the 2024 Stress in America Poll
The American Psychological Association's latest "Stress in America" poll highlights significant stressors affecting public health, with 77% of adults citing the nation's future as a primary concern. This year, stress linked to the 2024 presidential election has risen to 69%, up from 52% in 2016. Key societal stressors include healthcare (55%), violence and crime (54%), and misinformation (82%...
Online Gambling Rise Poses Significant Public Health Threat
A recent report published in Lancet Public Health highlights the significant public health threat posed by the rise of online gambling. It reveals that nearly 16% of adults and over 26% of adolescents using online casinos and slot machines suffer from gambling disorders. The study estimates that up to 449 million people could be affected globally, with around 80 million adults diagnosed with ...
Youth Tobacco Product Use at a 25-Year Low, Yet Disparities Persist
Youth tobacco product use has reached a 25-year low, with 2.25 million U.S. middle and high school students reporting current use in 2024, down from 2.80 million in 2023. This decline is driven by reduced e-cigarette and hookah use. However, disparities persist, as tobacco use remains prevalent among more than 2 million students, with certain groups, such as American Indian or Alaska Native s...