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On January 5, 2026, the US CDC, led by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and acting director Jim O’Neill, reduced the number of vaccines routinely recommended for all children from 18 diseases to 11. Vaccines for hepatitis A, B, influenza, meningitis, RSV, and rotavirus are now recommended only for high-risk groups or via shared clinical decision-making. The move, aligned with President Trump’s directive to match European schedules, bypassed usual expert review and drew widespread criticism from medical groups and public health experts.
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The Biden administration proposes new rules to cut federal funding for hospitals providing gender-affirming care to minors, including puberty blockers, hormone therapy, and surgeries. The move aims to restrict access nationwide, facing legal challenges and opposition from medical groups. The rules are not yet final and will undergo a public comment period.
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Following a decline in vaccination rates, the UK has lost its WHO measles elimination status. Experts warn of major outbreaks, with projections of nearly 400,000 cases and 480 deaths over 20 years. Vaccination coverage remains below the 95% herd immunity threshold, risking further spread.
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Major US medical organizations now recommend delaying gender-related surgeries for minors until age 19, citing insufficient evidence and potential risks. This marks a significant shift from previous support, amid ongoing legal and political debates over pediatric gender care.
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As of February 2026, a landmark trial in Los Angeles County Superior Court is underway against Meta and Google's YouTube, accused of deliberately designing platforms to addict children and harm their mental health. The case centers on a 19-year-old plaintiff, KGM, and could set precedent for hundreds of similar lawsuits. TikTok and Snap settled earlier. Meta denies wrongdoing, citing complex mental health factors and safeguards.
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A coalition of 14 states and Pennsylvania's governor has filed a lawsuit against HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., challenging recent changes to US vaccine policies, including the removal of several childhood vaccines and the replacement of expert advisory members. The case raises concerns over public health and scientific integrity.
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Recent studies reveal a worsening sleep crisis among U.S. children and teens. Over 40% of children do not get enough sleep, impacting health and learning. New research highlights societal and biological factors, with potential solutions including better sleep routines and workplace screening for sleep disorders like OSA.
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A US federal judge has temporarily blocked vaccine policy changes initiated by Alex Kennedy, a controversial health official. The ruling invalidates recent modifications to childhood immunization schedules and appointments of vaccine advisory panel members, citing unlawful restructuring and potential public health risks. The decision marks a significant legal setback for Kennedy's vaccine agenda.