Largest U.S. pediatricians’ group; policy influencer on child health
Measles outbreaks have ended in parts of the U.S. after a surge in vaccination efforts, but national numbers remain high and vaccination coverage has not reached the 95% threshold. Authorities warn the elimination status remains at risk amid rising cases and policy shifts affecting vaccine confidence.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists has released its own maternal immunization schedule, diverging from the CDC’s guidance amid policy changes and vaccine misinformation. The plan endorses influenza, COVID-19, RSV, and Tdap vaccines during pregnancy, with additional vaccines for certain risk groups and postpartum/breastfeeding vaccination details. Health professionals say hesitancy remains a challenge as providers seek to align patient care with evidence-based guidance.
The Kennedy administration has filed motions to expedite federal vaccine-advisory meetings ahead of the fall flu season. Courts have frozen previous immunization policy changes, while new appointees prepare to form a fresh advisory panel.
The Federal Trade Commission and several states have filed a Texas suit against the World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH), accusing the group of deceptive claims about gender-affirming care for minors and of profiting from those claims. WPATH says guidelines are individualized. The action follows ongoing FTC probes and a broader fight over minors’ gender-affirming treatments.
Moderna’s mFlusiva has secured an advisory committee vote in favor of approval for adults 50 and older. The decision follows earlier FDA scrutiny and a high-profile dispute over study design, with the committee citing robust efficacy and a solid safety profile.
Utah faces a widening measles outbreak affecting 22 of 29 counties, with infection clusters in undervaccinated communities. Officials warn that school start and cooler weather could trigger a renewed surge. ProPublica links endemism questions to national measles status.
New safety measures are being rolled out after multiple drownings highlighted by the Independent and AP reports. The push emphasizes swift rescue, pool safety, and funding for swimming lessons following a family tragedy that inspired a charitable foundation.
Andrea Shaw, 23, has been indicted on two counts of first-degree murder in the deaths of her 18-month-old twins, Dallas and Tyson, found dead in their Payette, Idaho, home in May 2025. Prosecutors allege willful suffocation; defense links the deaths to vaccines. Shaw remains held on a $2 million bond as her case moves toward trial.
Multiple sources report a rebound in measles cases across the U.S., with 2,260 confirmed cases now documented in 44 states and D.C. Public health officials say vaccination coverage below 95% threatens herd immunity and risks losing measles elimination status. A review in November will decide on that status.