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Covid-19 Pandemic

Global health is important and challenging for all. Pandemic lock down showed that world need to unite to fight endemic threats to our societies. Media serves as mediator between public and authorities in verifying and spreading independent and trustworthy news.

Earlier posts:

Pandemic deal hangs in the balance as countries deadlocked over vaccine details

Three years of negotiations for a global pandemic treaty have reached a deadlock as countries remain deeply divided over the sharing of pathogen data and vaccines. Lower-income nations are demanding contractual guarantees and technology transfers for life-saving medicines, while wealthier nations argue such requirements would stifle pharmaceutical innovation. This persistent impasse means the world risks facing the next pandemic without a clear system for equitable drug distribution or urgent sample sharing. Some officials describe the latest round of talks as a “waste of time,” an extra meeting has been scheduled for late April to attempt a breakthrough before a final May deadline. Failure to reach an agreement risks leaving the world without a coordinated response system or equitable access to drugs for the next global health crisis.

Date: March 30, 2026. Source: politico.eu

Kent meningitis outbreak prompts rush for routine vaccinations in England

The recent meningitis outbreak in Kent has sparked a significant surge in demand for routine teenage vaccinations across England as parents and students rush to address gaps in their immunization records. While the current outbreak involves the MenB strain, school services and pharmacies are reporting a massive “silver lining” uptick in MenACWY and Td/IPV (tetanus, diphtheria, and polio) uptake, which had previously dropped below the recommended 95% threshold. Health officials in regions like Greater Manchester and Berkshire have seen consent rates and inquiries for vaccinations soar. Experts note that the tragedy has served as a grim reminder of the severity of vaccine-preventable diseases, leading to thousands of “catch-up” doses being administered. Health Secretary Wes Streeting and NHS directors are urging families to maintain this momentum to reverse the long-term decline in national vaccination rates and prevent future outbreaks.

Date: March 25, 2026. Source: theguardian.com

What we know about the UK’s deadly meningitis outbreak

The UK is facing an “unprecedented” outbreak of Group B meningococcal disease, primarily centered around a “superspreader event” at a Canterbury nightclub in early March. Health officials have confirmed 15 cases and two deaths, with many of those affected being students at the University of Kent. While the bacteria is commonly carried harmlessly by up to 24% of the population, this specific strain has proven unusually invasive and fast-moving, spreading through close contact such as sharing drinks or vapes. In response, authorities have launched emergency clinics to distribute preventative antibiotics and a targeted vaccination program for 5,000 students at the University of Kent. The risk to the general public remains low.

Date: March 19, 2026. Source: france24.com

More than 150,000 uncounted COVID-19 deaths occurred early in the pandemic, a study finds

A new study estimates that the early U.S. COVID-19 death toll was substantially higher than official counts, suggesting up to 155,000 additional deaths in 2020–2021 likely went unrecognized because they occurred outside hospitals and were often not tested or diagnosed as COVID-19. The finding reports that this would mean roughly 16% of COVID-19 deaths in those years were missing from official tallies, with undercounting disproportionately affecting Hispanic people and other people of color, especially early in the pandemic and in parts of the South and Southwest. Researchers attribute the gaps to health care access, limited early testing, uneven death-investigation systems (including reliance on coroners), and pressures around how causes of death were recorded amid politicization.

Date: March 18, 2026. Source: apnews.com

‘The videos are terrifying’: students describe spreading panic amid Kent meningitis outbreak

Fear and confusion spread quickly among students in Canterbury after a meningitis outbreak linked to a night out at Club Chemistry, with many students worrying less about their own health than about infecting vulnerable contacts. Hundreds of University of Kent students queued for preventive antibiotics, while the university moved in-person exams online as authorities tried to contain transmission. Students described panic fuelled by alarming videos and messages, and some said parents arrived late at night to take them home, leaving flats suddenly half-empty.

Date: March 16, 2026. Source: theguardian.com

Flu vaccines didn’t work that well in the US, officials find

The U.S. flu season is concluding with a significantly low vaccine effectiveness rate of 25% to 30% for adults, primarily due to a mismatch between the vaccine and a dominant new H3N2 strain called subclade K. Despite at least 22,000 deaths and 27 million illnesses this season, health officials emphasize that vaccination remains crucial as it significantly reduces the risk of severe disease and death. Current CDC data shows a slight increase in adult vaccination rates but a decline in childhood immunizations following a shift in federal policy that removed broad flu shot recommendations for minors. Looking ahead, the World Health Organization and the FDA have already endorsed updated vaccine formulas for the 2026-27 season specifically designed to target the subclade K mutation.

Date: March 13, 2026. Source: apnews.com

We study pandemics. The resurgence of measles is a grim sign of what’s coming

Researchers at Brown University’s Pandemic Center warn that measles has become entrenched in the U.S., with over 1,300 infections confirmed by early March 2026 and continuous circulation for over a year. This resurgence is believed to be driven by a decline in the national MMR vaccination rate below the 95% herd immunity threshold, leaving the U.S. at risk of losing its measles elimination status. Beyond the immediate health risks and rising death toll, experts argue the outbreak serves as a “grim signal” of the country’s eroding capacity to manage infectious diseases due to waning public trust in health institutions. The economic burden is also staggering, with experts predicting that even a 1% drop in vaccine coverage could cost the U.S. billions in healthcare expenses and productivity losses.

Date: March 12, 2026. Source: washingtonpost.com

BioNTech founders step down to start new venture

BioNTech founders Ugur Sahin and Özlem Türeci have announced they will step down by the end of 2026 to launch a new firm dedicated to further mRNA innovations. The pioneering couple developed the first Western-approved COVID-19 vaccine. While BioNTech’s stock price dropped 17% following the news, the company will maintain a minority stake and collaborate with the founders’ third venture on new therapies.

Date: March 10, 2026. Source: dw.com

Is Covid a thing of the past? Flu is back to being the most common winter ailment

For the second consecutive winter, influenza has outpaced COVID-19 in the U.S., with approximately 25 million flu cases compared to between three to nine million COVID-19 infections since October. While COVID-19 is now considered endemic and symptoms have generally become milder due to increased population immunity, it remains a significant threat with a death toll comparable to that of the flu. Experts suggest that the high prevalence of influenza may be “crowding out” COVID-19 by generating non-specific immunity, though they remain uncertain about the trajectory of future variants. Despite the continued risks, COVID-19 vaccination rates among vulnerable groups have declined by 9% amid a shift in federal policy that has reduced vaccine recommendations and halted development contracts.

Date: March 4, 2026. Source: independent.co.uk

Inside the battle to end the Aids pandemic in the face of Trump’s cuts

The BRILLIANT 011 HIV vaccine trial in South Africa has successfully restarted through alternative funding from the South African government and private foundations after being abruptly halted by U.S. aid cuts in 2025. While the trial aims to develop broadly neutralizing antibodies that can recognize various mutating strains of the virus, researchers warn that the year-long stoppage has severely disrupted training networks and slowed the regulatory process. Simultaneously, the rollout of lenacapavir, a twice-yearly preventative jab, offers a historic breakthrough in protection.

Date: March 2, 2026. Source: independent.co.uk

Scientists develop universal vaccine to protect against allergies, cold and flu

Researchers at Stanford Medicine have tested a universal nasal spray vaccine that demonstrated broad protection against various respiratory viruses, bacteria, and allergens in mice. Unlike traditional vaccines that mimic specific pathogens, this formula mimics the signals immune cells use to communicate. While lead scientists believe this could eventually replace multiple annual injections and transform medical practice, experts warn that significant safety testing is required to ensure the hyper-ready immune response doesn’t cause adverse side effects in humans. If human trials are successful and funding is secured, the vaccine could potentially be available to the public within five to seven years.

Date: February 19, 2026. Source: independent.co.uk

FDA reverses course and will review Moderna’s mRNA-based flu vaccine

The FDA has reversed its initial refusal and will now review Moderna’s application for the first mRNA-based flu vaccine, targeting a completion date of August 5. The sudden reversal follows a week of intense criticism from the medical community, with many viewing the initial rejection as a sign of shifting vaccine policies under the current administration. In a meeting held by the FDA, Moderna successfully amended its regulatory approach. The development occurs amidst a tense political climate where Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has already canceled significant funding for mRNA research.

Date: February 18, 2026. Source: theguardian.com

‘We almost lost you in the night’ – the life-threatening rise of measles in the UK

The UK has seen a dangerous resurgence of measles, leading the World Health Organization to strip the country of its “measles-free” status. This escalation is driven by a steady decline in MMR vaccination rates, which have fallen below the 95% threshold required for herd immunity. Recent outbreaks in 2025, particularly in London, have primarily affected unvaccinated children under ten. Experts attribute the crisis to a combination of post-pandemic disruption, growing vaccine hesitancy, online misinformation.

Date: February 15, 2026. Summary: theguardian.com

Why measles are still a challenge: Experts warn vaccination hesitancy fuels Europe spread

Measles remains a major health challenge in Europe, with 127,350 cases reported in 2024, the highest since 1997, despite a slight decline in 2025. Experts warn that the risk of outbreaks persists, in 2025, 8 in 10 of those infected had not been vaccinated. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) stresses that to prevent outbreaks, at least 95% of the population must be vaccinated. The disease is highly contagious and can cause severe health complications, emphasizing the importance of vaccination to protect vulnerable groups and eliminate measles.

Date: February 11, 2026. Summary: euronews.com

FDA declines to review Moderna application for new flu vaccine

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) refused to review Moderna’s application for a new mRNA-based flu vaccine, despite earlier signals that the project could move forward. The agency said the application lacked sufficiently “adequate and well-controlled” clinical trial evidence. The agency’s refusal centered on the study’s design, arguing that it compared the new shot to standard flu vaccines rather than the high-dose versions specifically recommended for seniors.

Date: February 11, 2026. Summary: theguardian.com

Obesity is linked to 70% higher risk of infection and 1 in 10 deaths worldwide, study says

A major study published in The Lancet has revealed that individuals with obesity face a 70% higher risk of being hospitalized or dying from a wide range of infectious diseases compared to those at a healthy weight. Researchers analyzing data from over 540,000 adults found that this increased vulnerability applies to common illnesses such as flu, pneumonia, and COVID-19. Researchers estimate obesity is linked to about one in ten infection-related deaths worldwide, with particularly high rates in the US and UK. Scientists believe obesity may weaken immune defenses, making infections more severe. The findings highlight the need for stronger public health strategies on weight management.

Date: February 11, 2026. Summary: euronews.com

‘Take the vaccine, please,’ Dr. Mehmet Oz says in an appeal as measles cases rise

Dr. Mehmet Oz, head of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, urged Americans to get vaccinated against measles as outbreaks spread across several states and threaten the nation’s measles-elimination status. He emphasized that Medicare and Medicaid will continue covering the vaccine and said there should be no barriers to access. The outbreaks, which have largely affected children, come amid declining vaccination rates and growing public distrust of vaccines. The debate has intensified due to past vaccine skepticism from Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and mixed messaging within the administration about vaccine safety and autism claims.

Date: February 8, 2026. Source: apnews.com

WHO says fatal case of Nipah virus confirmed in Bangladesh

The World Health Organization (WHO) confirmed that a woman in Bangladesh died after contracting the Nipah virus, with laboratory results verifying the infection following her hospital admission in late January. The patient, who had consumed raw date palm sap and had no recent travel history, developed fever and neurological symptoms, while 35 identified contacts have so far tested negative. The announcement follows recent cases in India’s West Bengal state, prompting heightened regional vigilance, although WHO maintains that the overall risk of international spread remains low and does not recommend travel or trade restrictions. Health authorities have strengthened surveillance and prevention measures, as Nipah remains a rare but serious disease with a high fatality rate and no licensed vaccines or specific treatments.

Date: February 7, 2026. Source: aljazeera.com

Measles outbreak prompts health alert in World Cup host Jalisco, Mexico

The Mexican state of Jalisco has issued a health alert and mandated the use of face masks in schools as a significant measles outbreak hits its capital, Guadalajara. As a key host city for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, officials are concerned that the high volume of international visitors could further accelerate the spread of the virus. Jalisco is currently the epicenter of Mexico’s largest outbreak in decades, with over 1,000 confirmed cases this year primarily linked to declining vaccination rates.

Date: February 6, 2026. Source: apnews.com

UN agency warns of ‘sharp increase’ in measles cases in the Americas

The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has issued an alert regarding a significant surge in measles cases across North and South America, threatening the region’s disease-elimination status. Data shows that the first three weeks of 2026 alone saw over 1,000 confirmed cases in the Americas. Health officials are urging member states to intensify vaccination campaigns, particularly in the United States and Mexico, to prevent further backsliding.

Date: February 5, 2026. Source: aljazeera.com

Calls to shut down Texas ICE facility for children grow amid measles outbreak

A measles outbreak at a migrant detention center in Dilley, Texas, has prompted calls from medical experts and advocates to close the facility to prevent a wider epidemic. With at least two confirmed cases inside the center and rising infections in surrounding states, public health experts warn that the crowded conditions within the center could turn it into an “epidemic engine,” potentially spreading the highly contagious virus to the surrounding community. In response to the outbreak, Democratic Congressman Joaquin Castro has called for the immediate closure of the facility, arguing that it is unequipped to handle a medical crisis and that families should not be held in prison-like conditions. The situation at Dilley coincides with a broader surge of measles cases across several U.S. states, fueled by rising vaccine hesitancy and a lack of clear national public health campaigns.

Date: February 5, 2026. Source: theguardian.com

Race to contain suspected bird flu outbreak among Thames Valley swans

Wildlife volunteers and health officials in the Thames Valley are working to contain a suspected H5N1 bird flu outbreak that has killed dozens of swans. The Animal and Plant Health Agency (Apha) has recorded over 320 cases in swans since October, with numbers spiking in early 2026. Observers say the official figures may underestimate the scale of the outbreak, and some swans have shown signs consistent with the disease, though lab confirmation is still awaited. Authorities are advising people not to touch sick or dead birds and to report sightings to help manage the spread of the virus.

Date: February 2, 2026. Source: theguardian.com

Why is India’s Nipah virus outbreak spooking the world?

India’s recent Nipah virus outbreak in West Bengal has alarmed Southeast Asia and China because the virus is a highly deadly zoonotic pathogen that can pass from animals (especially fruit bats) to humans and between people through close contact. Nipah infection can incubate for 5–14 days and cause severe symptoms including fever, neurological complications. While the virus is highly lethal with a fatality rate of 40% to 75%, experts note its limited human-to-human transmission makes a widespread pandemic unlikely. The confirmation of two Nipah virus cases has triggered heightened health screenings at airports across Southeast Asia and China, especially as millions prepare for Lunar New Year travel. Currently, there are no approved vaccines or treatments, although clinical trials are underway in Bangladesh.

Date: January 29, 2026. Source: aljazeera.com

Two viruses emerging from animals could be the next ‘major’ public health threats to American families, scientists warn

Scientists warn that two animal-borne viruses influenza D and a canine coronavirus strain could become major public health threats in the United States if they evolve to spread easily between humans. Influenza D has been found widely in livestock and some human exposures, and a strain in China has already shown human-to-human transmission potential. The canine coronavirus, while typically a dog pathogen, has been detected in humans in parts of Asia and the U.S., sometimes linked to respiratory illness.

Date: January 28, 2026. Source: independent.co.uk

Ethiopia declares the end of its first Marburg virus outbreak

Ethiopia has officially declared the end of its first-ever Marburg virus outbreak after 42 days passed without any new confirmed cases. The outbreak, first detected in mid-November 2025 in the southern Omo region, resulted in 14 confirmed cases and nine deaths, with five additional probable deaths reported. Among those infected were three health workers, two of whom died while one survived. The WHO provided technical support for surveillance, diagnostics, case management and infection control throughout the response.

Date: January 26, 2026. Source: apnews.com

WHO provides promising update on India’s deadly Nipah virus outbreak

The World Health Organization (WHO) has determined that the risk of a widespread Nipah virus outbreak following two confirmed cases in West Bengal, India, remains low. the WHO found no evidence of increased human-to-human transmission and advised against travel or trade restrictions. he two cases involved healthcare workers who were infected in late December, and while the virus has a high fatality rate of up to 75%, India is credited with having the capacity to contain such localized events. The agency continues to coordinate with Indian health authorities to identify the source of infection and monitor for further cases.

Date: January 30, 2026. Source: independent.co.uk

Airports across Asia reintroduce Covid-style health checks after outbreak of deadly Nipah virus in India

Several Asian countries, including Thailand, Nepal, and Taiwan, have reintroduced COVID-style health screenings at airports and border crossings following a Nipah virus outbreak in West Bengal, India. Thailand has specifically targeted passengers arriving from affected regions for fever monitoring, while Nepal has intensified checks at land borders due to the frequent movement of people across the open frontier with India. Although Indian officials report that nearly 200 contacts have tested negative so far, the World Health Organization continues to list the virus as a priority pathogen due to its possibility of causing an epidemic.

Date: January 26, 2026. Source: independent.co.uk

What is Nipah virus? Key things to know about the disease amid cases in India

The Nipah virus is primarily transmitted to humans from fruit bats and pigs, carrying a high fatality rate of 40% to 75%. India recently confirmed two cases in West Bengal, prompting several Asian nations to implement airport screenings and health checks for travelers arriving from the country. Symptoms often begin with fever and respiratory issues but can escalate to severe brain swelling and seizures, though human-to-human transmission is generally considered low. Health authorities have emphasized that the current cases were contained through enhanced surveillance.

Date: January 28, 2026. Source: theguardian.com

Sharp rise in malnutrition cases, preventable diseases in Somalia: MSF

Doctors Without Borders (MSF) reports a critical health emergency in Somalia, where failed rainy seasons and drastic humanitarian aid cuts are driving a surge in severe malnutrition and preventable diseases. Children are arriving at overcrowded displacement camps in dire condition, suffering from outbreaks of measles, diphtheria, and acute watery diarrhea. The crisis is exacerbated by skyrocketing water prices, which have left many families unable to afford clean drinking water and forced them to use contaminated sources. MSF is calling on the international community to urgently scale up funding and vaccination programs to prevent further loss of life in the climate-vulnerable nation.

Date: January 20, 2026. Source: aljazeera.com

Gaza’s tent life between illness and daily despair

Displaced Palestinians in Gaza are facing a severe public health crisis as waste accumulation, sewage overflows, and lack of clean water drive outbreaks of disease. Families living in tents report rapidly spreading illnesses among children, including respiratory infections and skin conditions, exacerbated by the cold winter and malnutrition.

Date: January 25, 2026. Source: aljazeera.com

US completes withdrawal from World Health Organization

The United States has officially finalized its withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO), fulfilling a promise made by the Trump administration a year prior. Experts warn this move will severely hinder global responses to future pandemics and disrupt critical programs for polio eradication and maternal health. The departure isolates the US from international health data sharing and coordination systems at a time of rising global health threats.

Date: January 23, 2026. Source: apnews.com

Malawi rolls out cholera vaccines as rains and floods raise the threat of deadly outbreaks

Malawi has launched an urgent cholera vaccination campaign in response to heavy rains and flooding that have increased the risk of waterborne diseases. Health officials are targeting vulnerable communities to prevent a repeat of past deadly outbreaks, as infrastructure damage has compromised sanitation systems. The initiative aims to distribute an initial 24,000 oral vaccines to vulnerable populations, though experts emphasize that a much larger supply is needed for national protection.

Date: January 23, 2026. Source: apnews.com

The return of measles: how a once-vanquished disease is spreading again

A surging measles outbreak in the United States has reached 664 cases in South Carolina alone, spreading to several other states including North Carolina, Ohio, and Washington. Experts warn that the U.S. is likely to lose its “measles-eliminated” status this year as the virus, which began spreading from a Texas cluster a year ago, continues to circulate year-round. Public health officials are concerned that declining vaccination rates and the promotion of misinformation by high-level officials could lead to a resurgence of other preventable diseases like polio and rubella. The majority of infections are occurring in unvaccinated children.

Date: January 21, 2026. Source: theguardian.com

US mixed messaging on flu shots alarms experts: ‘Children should not be dying’

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., acting as a top health official in the Trump administration, formally rescinded the long-standing federal recommendation for annual flu vaccines. Medical experts expressed deep alarm over this “mixed messaging,” noting it coincided with record-breaking rates of illness and nearly 300 pediatric flu deaths in the previous season. While Kennedy claimed there is no scientific evidence that the vaccine prevents serious illness or death in children, public health advocates pointed to extensive studies showing its effectiveness and warned that the new policy will likely cause vaccination rates to drop further.

Date: January 16, 2026. Source: theguardian.com

A year of Trump: US health policy reshaped in RFK Jr’s image

One year into Donald Trump’s return to the White House, US health policy has been dramatically reshaped under Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., whose long‑held skepticism toward vaccines and mainstream medical advice is now influencing federal institutions. Experts warn that his reforms have undermined trust in science, weakened disease‑prevention programs, and cut research funding, even as the country faces its worst measles outbreak in years. Kennedy has promoted “individual choice” over population‑wide protections, drawing praise from his “Make America Healthy Again” supporters but alarm from much of the medical community.
While some initiatives, such as efforts to lower drug prices and remove synthetic food dyes, align with mainstream goals, critics fear long‑term damage to US and global public health leadership.

Date: January 15, 2026. Source: france24.com

Measles cases jump again in South Carolina, rising to more than 550

South Carolina is currently experiencing a severe measles outbreak, with cases surging to over 550 and becoming the worst in the United States. Health officials warn that the highly contagious, airborne virus is spreading through public exposure sites, sometimes affecting individuals who are unaware they have been exposed. This surge has put the United States at risk of losing its “measles-free” status, a designation held since the disease was considered eliminated in 2000.

Date: January 16, 2026. Source: apnews.com

Four NHS trusts in England declare critical incidents after ‘surge’ in A&E admissions

Four NHS trusts in England declared critical incidents following a massive surge in A&E admissions that overwhelmed hospital capacity. Health officials attributed the crisis to a combination of rising seasonal respiratory viruses, including a severe flu strain, and significant staff shortages. The trusts took the emergency measure to prioritize the most clinically urgent cases, resulting in the cancellation of many planned operations and outpatient appointments.

Date: January 13, 2026. Source: theguardian.com

CDC studies show value of nationwide wastewater disease surveillance, as potential funding cut looms

Recent CDC studies highlight the success of nationwide wastewater surveillance in detecting diseases like measles, polio, and bird flu weeks before clinical outbreaks occur. By testing sewage, public health officials can identify viral presence in a community even when individuals are asymptomatic or haven’t sought medical care. However, this critical early-warning system faces significant uncertainty as potential federal funding cuts loom under the new administration’s plan to reduce government spending.

Date: January 15, 2026. Source: apnews.com

Flu season: How is it spreading across the EU and what are countries doing about it?

Euronews reports that EU flu activity rose earlier than usual (by several weeks) and that Influenza A is dominant across member states, with widespread but generally low-to-medium intensity activity. Children aged 5–14 are the most frequently infected, while adults 65+ are hospitalized at the highest rates, according to the piece. The article summarizes recommended responses including vaccination, antivirals, and masking in healthcare/long‑term care, and notes preliminary ECDC findings suggesting moderate vaccine effectiveness against A(H3N2). It also gives country snapshots (e.g., rising hospitalizations in Ireland, epidemic conditions in parts of France, and increases in Portugal) to show how pressure varies across Europe.

Date: January 13, 2026. Source: euronews.com

Understanding the health issues set to dominate 2026

Euronews surveys experts who say global health leadership and financing will be pivotal in 2026 amid aid cuts and uncertainty, with implications for outbreak readiness and essential programs. It flags malaria setbacks and drug resistance, plus workforce shortages across health systems as compounding vulnerabilities. The article also points to biotech and biodefence capabilities—advanced diagnostics and next‑generation vaccines—as central to rapid response in future pandemics and biological threats. Climate change and antimicrobial resistance are described as cross-border accelerants of health crises that can amplify outbreak risk.

Date: January 10, 2026. Source: euronews.com

Flu season surged in the US over the holiday and already rivals last winter’s harsh epidemic

U.S. flu infections surged over the holidays, and officials warned the season is severe and likely to worsen, with 45 states reporting high or very high activity during the week of Christmas. The report highlights influenza A(H3N2) dominance and notes that 90%+ of analyzed H3N2 infections were a subclade K variant differing from this season’s vaccine strain, raising concern about mismatch. The CDC estimated at least 11 million illnesses, 120,000 hospitalizations, and 5,000 deaths from flu so far this season. Public-health experts still recommend annual influenza vaccination, even as federal guidance changes are discussed in parallel.

Date: January 5, 2026 Source: apnews.com

Global health’s defining test

WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus reflects on the progress and challenges of 2025, arguing that international cooperation is essential to protect global health in 2026 and beyond. He highlights major milestones like the adoption of the Pandemic Agreement and advancements in immunisation, which have significantly reduced global under-five mortality and measles deaths. However, he warns that progress remains fragile, with 4.6 billion people still lacking essential health services and ongoing humanitarian crises in Gaza, Sudan, and Ukraine straining resources. Looking ahead, Dr. Tedros calls for a commitment to universal health coverage and the integration of digital innovations, such as AI, to bridge healthcare gaps in rural and remote settings.

Date: January 9, 2026 Source: aljazeera.com

US cuts the number of vaccines recommended for every child, a move slammed by physicians

The Trump administration issued a memo directing a comprehensive review of the CDC’s recommended childhood vaccine schedule, a move led by HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. The review aims to evaluate the scientific evidence behind each vaccine and investigate potential links to chronic health conditions, which Kennedy has long questioned. Public health experts have expressed deep concern, warning that such a move could undermine parental confidence and lead to a resurgence of preventable diseases.

Date: January 6, 2026 Source: apnews.com

Hard to digest: we still live in Fast Food Nation

Eric Schlosser reflects on the 25th anniversary of his book Fast Food Nation, arguing that the industrial food system’s dangers have intensified through corporate consolidation and a lack of transparency. Schlosser criticizes the “corporate capture” of government agencies, noting that while the new administration promises to “Make America Healthy Again,” its proposed budget cuts to the CDC and FDA could cripple essential public health oversight. Ultimately, he calls for “true-cost accounting” to expose the hidden health and environmental expenses of cheap food, which he estimates are nearly triple the price paid at the register.

Date: January 6, 2026 Source: theguardian.com

Face masks ‘inadequate’ and should be swapped for respirators, WHO is advised

A group of experts urged the World Health Organization (WHO) to update its guidelines to recommend respirator-grade masks, such as N95 or FFP2, as the standard for healthcare workers. The signatories argue that traditional surgical masks are “obsolete” and provide inadequate protection against airborne pathogens like Covid-19 and the flu. The proposal suggests that switching to respirators would significantly reduce infection rates, staff absences, and burnout among medical professionals. While the WHO is currently reviewing its infection prevention guidelines, the experts emphasize that even in poorer countries, respirator access should be prioritized to ensure worker safety.

Date: January 9, 2026 Source: theguardian.com

Flu cases continue to rise sharply in Switzerland

Swiss health authorities reported the flu epidemic started earlier than last year and lab-confirmed influenza cases have nearly doubled compared with the prior year. In the last week of 2025, Switzerland and Liechtenstein recorded about 2,900 lab-confirmed cases, up roughly 22% week-on-week. The highest incidence was reported in Basel-Stadt, with notable regional variation.

Date: December 31, 2025. Source: swissinfo.ch

South Carolina measles outbreak grows to 185 cases amid vaccination worries

South Carolina officials reported the measles outbreak rose to 185 cases, with most infections in unvaccinated people and only one case in a fully vaccinated person. The report stresses measles’ extreme contagiousness and notes that vaccine hesitancy is contributing to renewed spread despite the U.S. having declared measles eliminated decades ago. It also links the surge to broader challenges to vaccination policy and public trust.

Date: January 2, 2026. Source: aljazeera.com

Canadian officials say US health institutions no longer dependable for accurate information

Canadian health officials and experts are warning that U.S. health institutions, such as the CDC, can no longer be relied upon for accurate medical information due to an influx of misinformation from the Trump administration. Health Minister Marjorie Michel stated she no longer considers the U.S. a “reliable partner,” particularly as Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. promotes an anti-vaccine agenda. There are significant concerns that this U.S. rhetoric is already eroding public trust in Canada, potentially worsening childhood vaccination rates and fueling measles outbreaks. Consequently, Canada is seeking closer collaboration with other global health systems to establish independent surveillance and information networks.

Date: January 4, 2026. Source: theguardian.com

Flu patient numbers in English hospitals fall for second straight week

Despite fears of a “twindemic,” the number of flu patients in English hospitals has fallen for the second consecutive week, offering some relief to the NHS. Data shows daily average flu cases dropped by 13% compared to the previous week, although health chiefs warn against complacency as a cold snap could drive numbers back up. The decrease is partly attributed to a successful vaccination campaign that saw half a million more people vaccinated than the previous year.

Date: January 2, 2026 Source: theguardian.com

US sees spike in flu cases in December, after most severe season since 2018

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported a significant spike in influenza cases across the US in December 2025, following what was already the most severe flu season since 2018. Over 3,100 people died from the virus in the year leading up to August 2025, and pediatric deaths reached a record high. Experts are urging the public to get vaccinated, citing the emergence of a new variant and a decline in vaccination uptake.

Date: January 3, 2026. Source: theguardian.com

The Guardian view on mRNA vaccines: they are the future – with or without Donald Trump

The Guardian argues that mRNA technology remains the future of medicine despite the Trump administration’s aggressive efforts to defund research and undermine public confidence. Under the influence of Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the US has pivoted toward an anti-vaccine agenda, leading to a “coordinated wind-down” of federal funding for dozens of critical mRNA projects. While this hostility threatens American scientific leadership, pharmaceutical companies are increasingly focusing on “untouched” areas like personalized cancer vaccines to bypass political interference. Ultimately, the editorial suggests that the UK and EU must now seize the opportunity to become the new global hubs for mRNA innovation as the US becomes an unreliable partner.

Date: January 1, 2026. Source: theguardian.com

Five big global health wins in 2025 that will save millions of lives

The article highlights five major global health breakthroughs in 2025: rapid scale-up of HPV vaccination to prevent cervical cancer, a new class of malaria treatment approaching approval, more countries/regions eliminating measles and rubella, a twice‑yearly HIV-prevention injection (lenacapavir) reaching sub‑Saharan Africa quickly, and accelerating TB progress in vaccines, diagnostics and new drugs.

Date: December 22, 2025. Source: theguardian.com

Southern Switzerland hardest hit by the flu

Over 2,000 Swiss residents were sidelined by the flu during Christmas, with cases doubling compared to the previous year. Canton Ticino in the south is the hardest-hit region, recording the country’s highest infection rates. While flu cases rose 30% in a single week, medical consultations for high fevers and coughs have also surged. Health officials added that while RSV is beginning to circulate, coronavirus levels have already peaked.

Date: December 26, 2025. Source: swissinfo.ch

Officials suspect bird flu after 12 swans die at Orlando’s Lake Eola

A dozen of Orlando’s iconic swans at Lake Eola have died over recent days, and city officials suspect bird flu but say the deaths do not appear suspicious. Before the die-off, the park had about five dozen swans, and the last known bird flu outbreak there was in February 2024. Because the deaths occurred during the holiday season, the city’s specialized veterinarians were not immediately available to evaluate the birds. The dead swans are being kept in a secure location so necropsies and tests can determine the exact cause, which officials say is still unconfirmed until results come back.

Date: December 29, 2025. Source: apnews.com

Could bird flu spread among humans? Scientists show how it might happen

Scientists have identified mutations that could allow H5N1 bird flu to bind to human respiratory receptors, increasing the risk of a pandemic. The virus is evolving in ways that mirror previous pandemic strains, especially as it spreads among mammals like dairy cows. Experts warn that these adaptations provide the virus more chances to jump to humans, necessitating urgent global surveillance. Preemptive vaccine development is now considered vital to prevent a potential global health crisis.

Date: December 19, 20205. Source: euronews.com

Warning further waves of flu could follow as deaths double in just a week

The Scotsman reports that Scotland’s flu deaths doubled week-on-week, even as lab-confirmed cases showed a “reassuring” decline. It cites official statistics indicating deaths can lag behind case trends, raising concern that additional waves may still follow. The piece frames the situation as part of a severe winter respiratory season requiring continued vigilance and health-system readiness.

Date: December 19, 2025. Source: scotsman.com

Medical experts are pushing back on new US vaccine policy

DW describes a growing clash between US health agencies under Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and major medical groups over childhood vaccination guidance. It notes that dozens of professional organizations protested ACIP recommendations that would make the newborn hepatitis B shot optional for most infants and adjust other vaccine scheduling, amid concerns about misinformation and public confusion. The piece highlights fears that weakened vaccine messaging could worsen outbreaks (including measles) and further undermine trust in federal health guidance.

Date: December 15, 2025. Source: dw.com

Experts push back on UK’s ‘superflu’ narrative as doctors set to strike

Health experts are pushing back against sensationalist “superflu” headlines in the UK, clarifying that current influenza levels are typical for the winter season. While the media has raised alarms about a potential “twindemic” of flu and COVID-19, doctors emphasize that the strains circulating are not unusually severe. However, the NHS remains under significant pressure due to a massive backlog of patients and planned industrial action by junior doctors. Experts argue that the real crisis stems from chronic underfunding and staffing shortages rather than a particularly dangerous new virus.

Date: December 15, 2025. Source: politico.eu

Health experts criticise NHS chief’s remarks that people with flu symptoms ‘must wear face masks’

Health experts have raised concerns after an NHS leader stated that people with flu symptoms “must” wear masks in public, contradicting official guidance which only suggests they “consider” it. Critics warned that such conflicting messages could undermine public trust, drawing parallels to communication challenges faced during the Covid-19 pandemic. The debate comes as hospitals in England face rising flu cases and implement their own mask policies in high-risk areas.

Date: December 10, 2025. Source: theguardian.com

Strikes could collapse flu-hit NHS amid worst crisis since Covid, says Streeting

UK Health Secretary Wes Streeting has warned that upcoming strikes by resident doctors could be the “Jenga piece” that causes the NHS to collapse during a severe winter flu season. Hospital admissions for flu have risen by 55% in a single week, creating pressure comparable to the worst periods of the COVID-19 pandemic. Officials are urging doctors to accept the latest government pay offer to avoid compromising patient safety during this critical period.

Date: December 12, 2025. Source: theguardian.com

Experts discover cause of bird flu outbreak across Europe

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) reported an unprecedented and early surge in highly pathogenic avian influenza (bird flu) across Europe, driven largely by wild birds rather than farm-to-farm spread. Between September and November, nearly 3,000 cases were detected across 29 countries, with significant mortality observed in species like common cranes. While human infections remain rare, authorities are concerned about the virus’s potential to mutate and affect mammals more broadly.

Date: December 11, 2025. Source: independent.co

Hundreds are quarantined in South Carolina as measles spreads in 2 US outbreaks

A measles outbreak in South Carolina has led to the quarantine of hundreds of people, primarily students, following a cluster of cases centered around a church and several schools. The outbreak highlights the dangers of declining vaccination rates, with health officials working to contain the highly contagious virus. This event contributes to a growing number of measles cases across the US, threatening the country’s elimination status for the disease.

Date: December 11, 2025. Source: apnews.com

FDA plans to put a ‘black box’ warning on COVID vaccines: report

Reports indicate that the FDA, under pressure from the incoming Trump administration, plans to add a “black box” warning—the agency’s most serious safety alert—to COVID-19 vaccines. The warning would highlight potential severe health effects, a move that has shocked medical experts who cite the vaccines’ strong safety record.

Date: December 12, 2025. Source: independent.co

England health officials identify newly evolved variant of mpox

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has detected a new “recombinant” variant of the mpox virus in an individual who recently traveled to Asia. This new strain contains genetic material from both the more severe clade 1 and the less virulent clade 2, highlighting the virus’s continued evolution. Health officials emphasized that while the emergence of such variants is expected, ongoing genomic surveillance is crucial to understand its potential impact.

Date: December 8, 2025. Source: theguardian.com

US health panel ditches guidance to give hepatitis B vaccine to newborns

A US government advisory committee has voted to rescind the long-standing recommendation that all newborns receive the hepatitis B vaccine. The decision breaks with decades of public health consensus and has drawn sharp criticism from medical experts who warn it will lead to increased infections and liver disease. The move is seen as part of a broader shift in vaccination policy under the new administration.

Date: December 5, 2025. Source: aljazeera.com

‘Contaminated sausage sandwich’ blamed for swine fever outbreak in Spain

Spanish authorities have deployed the military to contain an outbreak of African Swine Fever (ASF) near Barcelona, believed to have been triggered by a contaminated sausage sandwich discarded by a traveler. Drones and sniffer dogs are being used to track infected wild boars to prevent the virus from spreading to commercial pig farms. The outbreak poses a significant threat to Spain’s pork industry and highlights the risks of transboundary animal diseases.

Date: December 2, 2025. Source: independent.co

Aid cuts have shaken HIV/Aids care to its core – and will mean millions more infections ahead

Significant global aid cuts, estimated to be up to 40% lower, are devastating the fight against HIV/Aids, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. These funding reductions have forced clinic closures, caused shortages of test kits, and are already linked to a rise in Aids-related deaths in some regions. UNAids warns that this crisis could lead to 3.3 million more new HIV infections by 2030 without urgent, renewed political commitment and investment in prevention and community services.

Date: December 1, 2025. Source: theguardian.com

RFK Jr’s vaccine advisory panel to weigh delaying hepatitis B shots for newborns

The advisory committee, assembled under the current US Health Secretary, convened to discuss dramatically altering established childhood immunization practices, specifically targeting the Hepatitis B shot for newborns. Critics view this effort as the latest move by anti-vaccine advocates to undermine federal health policy. The panel previously recommended restricting access to other childhood vaccines, signaling a significant threat to the US immunization schedule. Public health officials are concerned that these actions will make it harder for families to access essential preventative care, potentially leading to increased outbreaks of preventable diseases like whooping cough.

December 4, 2025. theguardian.com

Congo declares its latest Ebola outbreak over, after 43 deaths

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) officially declared its latest Ebola outbreak over on December 1, following a rapid and successful containment effort. This achievement comes after 43 deaths were confirmed during the most recent flare-up of the deadly hemorrhagic fever. The government and international health agencies celebrated the end of the outbreak, highlighting the effectiveness of localized response strategies. The DRC remains highly vigilant, however, as it has experienced over a dozen Ebola outbreaks since the virus was first identified in the 1970s.

December 1, 2025. apnews.com

NHS braces for ‘unprecedented flu wave’ as hospitalised cases in England rise

Official figures released by NHS England show that the number of flu patients in hospitals across England has spiked by 56% compared with the same period last year. The early onset of the flu season means that an average of 1,717 flu patients occupied beds daily last week, putting immense pressure on healthcare services. Health leaders warn that this surge, which includes dozens of critical care patients, has not yet peaked. These statistics confirm that the NHS is entering a challenging winter period compounded by early viral activity.

December 4, 2025. theguardian.com

Ireland unveils new AMR strategy as EU antibiotic resistance rises

Ireland unveiled its third national action plan, iNAP3, aimed at aggressively tackling Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), a phenomenon often referred to as a “silent pandemic.” This resistance crisis occurs when bacteria evolve to resist antibiotic drugs, threatening to make common infections untreatable. The strategy adopts a comprehensive “One Health” approach, focusing on strengthening antibiotic surveillance and usage control across human health, agriculture, and the environment between 2026 and 2030. Irish authorities emphasized the urgency, noting that antibiotic resistance is accelerating and requires significant public health investment to mitigate future catastrophe.

Nov 20, 2025. euractiv.com

Toxic No 10 culture, unnecessary deaths and failed children: Key takeaways from the Covid inquiry report

The inquiry report emphasized that the “toxic culture” in Downing Street, coupled with major policy errors like the “Eat Out to Help Out” scheme, led to unnecessary deaths and undermined public confidence. The report found that school closures, while saving lives, “failed” children by bringing ordinary childhood to a halt and exacerbating existing societal inequalities. It stressed that critical decision-making was plagued by an absence of clear strategy and accountability. The findings serve as a stark warning about the devastating social and economic scars left by the pandemic.

Nov 20, 2025. independent.co

‘Too little, too late’: damning report condemns UK’s Covid response

A devastating official report into the United Kingdom’s handling of the Covid-19 pandemic concluded the government’s response was “too little, too late.” The report stated that the failure to introduce a lockdown even a week earlier than it happened could have saved over 20,000 lives. It condemned the UK’s overall preparedness, highlighting early inaction that allowed the virus to spread unchecked. This damning assessment confirmed major failures in timely decision-making and government leadership at the start of the crisis.

Nov 20, 2025. theguardian.com

Huge staff cuts at WHO will leave world ‘less healthy and safe’, experts warn

Experts are cautioning that the World Health Organization (WHO) will be significantly less effective at tackling disease outbreaks due to massive staff reductions. The WHO is planning to lose nearly a quarter of its workforce, totaling over 2,000 jobs, by mid-2026. These cuts are largely aimed at global and Africa-based staff, directly reducing the agency’s ability to coordinate responses to future pandemics. Critics argue that this diminished capacity severely impacts global health security at a time of increasing health threats worldwide.

Nov 19, 2025 theguardian.com

UK Warned That 15% Cut to Health Fund Will Force ‘Impossible Choices’ on Africa

The UK government’s decision to cut its contribution to the Global Fund for AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria by 15% has provoked strong criticism from health advocates. Campaigners fear this reduction risks triggering similar cuts from other donor nations, severely undermining global disease control efforts. Experts argue the move will force African countries to make “impossible choices” regarding essential health services. This reduction is projected to lead to fewer medical supplies and diagnostics reaching vulnerable populations.

November 15, 2025 https://www.theguardian.com

New Drug Could Be a Breakthrough in Treatment for Killer TB, Trial Suggests

A new antibiotic named Sorfequiline has demonstrated promising results in clinical trials as a potent treatment for Tuberculosis (TB). The drug is shown to be stronger than existing treatments and could potentially be effective against drug-resistant strains of the deadly bacteria. If approved, a Sorfequiline-based regimen could simplify and streamline the initial treatment process for newly diagnosed patients. This medical advancement arrives at a critical time when global progress toward eliminating TB is threatened by aid cuts.

November 15, 2025 theguardian.com

H5N1 Bird Flu Cases Are on the Rise in Europe: How Concerned Should You Be?

Spain has mandated the indoor confinement of free-range poultry to curb the spread of the H5N1 bird flu virus, currently classified as a panzootic (a pandemic in the animal kingdom). The virus is spreading massively among bird and mammal species globally and is moving closer to humans. Experts stress that H5N1 has not yet mutated enough to spread easily between people. Monitoring the animal world through a “One Health” approach is critical to preventing a future human pandemic.

November 17, 2025 https://www.independent.co.uk

Ethiopia Confirms Three Marburg Deaths in Outbreak Sparking Regional Alarm

Ethiopia confirmed its first Marburg virus disease outbreak after nine cases were identified in the Omo region, near the border with South Sudan. The viral hemorrhagic fever has an average fatality rate of around 50 percent, which has previously surged as high as 88 percent. International health teams from the World Health Organization (WHO) and Africa CDC have arrived to support containment efforts. The outbreak underscores the risk of contagious diseases in regions with fragile healthcare systems.

November 17, 2025 https://www.aljazeera.com

Health Pandemics

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Covid-19 Pandemic

Global health is important and challenging for all. Pandemic lock down showed that world need to unite to fight endemic threats to our societies. Media serves as mediator between public and authorities in verifying and spreading independent and trustworthy news.

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