Lauran Neergaard

The FDA has approved Moderna’s mFlusiva, the first mRNA-based flu vaccine, for adults aged 50 and older. Full approval for those aged 50 to 64 followed a 40,000-person study showing about 27% fewer flu cases than a routinely used vaccine, while accelerated approval for people 65 and over was based on strong immune-response data pending an additional postmarketing study. Moderna expects limited availability at selected retailers, and reported side effects such as injection-site pain, fever, headache and fatigue. The approval followed an unusual dispute between Moderna and the FDA over the vaccine’s application.

Researchers are testing vaccines designed to prevent colorectal cancer in people with Lynch syndrome, an inherited DNA-repair disorder that can raise lifetime colorectal-cancer risk to as high as 80%. An early MD Anderson trial involving 45 Lynch syndrome carriers found that a Nouscom vaccine stimulated tumor-targeting T cells, while follow-up colonoscopies showed fewer precancerous growths and no advanced polyps. Additional vaccines from Moderna and ImmunityBio are also being studied, but larger and longer trials are needed to determine whether vaccination can reliably prevent cancer and reduce reliance on frequent colonoscopies.

The Iran war has renewed concerns about the long-term effects of traumatic brain injuries among US service members, many of whom suffered blast-related injuries in drone and missile attacks and returned to duty. Medical experts warn that apparently mild concussions can produce lasting headaches, dizziness, memory and attention problems, while repeated blasts may increase the risk of chronic brain disease. Veterans describe delayed diagnoses, stigma around reporting injuries, overlapping PTSD symptoms and years of debilitating effects, including suicidal thoughts. Although the military has improved screening and treatment since the Iraq and Afghanistan wars, lawmakers and advocates say injuries may still be undercounted and that some troops received inadequate or delayed care. Early screening, specialized treatment and therapies can improve recovery, but doctors still cannot predict which patients will develop persistent symptoms.

The Trump administration has begun the process of decertifying Kentucky-based Network for Hope, citing persistent safety failures in cases involving planned organ retrieval from patients who showed signs of life. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. labeled the nonprofit a “bad apple,” while Network for Hope denied violating federal policies and said it would appeal. The controversy has renewed scrutiny of organ procurement organizations and prompted safeguards allowing medical staff or families to pause donation planning. The action comes as more than 100,000 Americans remain on the transplant waiting list, despite a record number of transplants last year.

Anthony Fauci is set to testify before a Senate committee after Sen. Rand Paul released more than 1,000 pages of Fauci’s pandemic-era diary, arguing that the entries conflict with Fauci’s public statements about COVID-19 and its origins. Fauci and his attorneys reject the accusations as baseless, while more than 150 scientists defend him and say there is no credible evidence supporting the claims. The hearing is expected to revisit NIH-funded coronavirus research in China, gain-of-function research and whether a laboratory leak contributed to the pandemic. Most scientists continue to favor natural animal-to-human transmission, although a lab leak has not been conclusively ruled out.

A long-term study of more than 2,600 older adults shows that high levels of the blood biomarker p‑tau217 strongly correlate with future cognitive impairment, identifying individuals at heightened risk of developing Alzheimer’s years before symptoms emerge. Although not yet suitable for clinical use, the test could play a key role in selecting participants for prevention-focused drug trials. Researchers emphasize lifestyle guidance remains unchanged for now, and experts urge caution due to predictive limitations, though they acknowledge the test as a significant step toward early detection and future treatment strategies.

Researchers reported early evidence that the experimental drug diranersen may slow cognitive decline in people with early Alzheimer’s by reducing tau protein production, offering an alternative to current amyloid-targeting therapies. A small study showed reduced tau levels and a modest slowing of decline, prompting plans for a larger trial despite the drug missing a primary dose-response goal. Additional research efforts include a new NIH-funded tau therapy platform trial, a potential tau vaccine, exploration of cholesterol-modifying drugs for genetic risk reduction and new delivery methods to improve drug access to the brain.

An aortic dissection, identified as the likely cause of Senator Lindsey Graham’s sudden death, is described as a rapidly fatal medical emergency caused by a tear in the aorta’s inner lining that disrupts blood flow and can lead to rupture. Risk factors include high blood pressure, atherosclerosis, smoking, and certain genetic conditions. Symptoms appear suddenly, often with severe pain or signs of shock. Prompt surgical treatment improves survival. A preliminary medical examiner’s report linked Graham’s dissection to artery hardening.

Researchers have begun a clinical trial in eastern Congo to evaluate remdesivir and the experimental antibody therapy MBP134 for treating Bundibugyo Ebola as cases and deaths continue to rise. All participants will receive standard care and be randomly assigned to treatment groups while survival is assessed over 28 days. The trial, supported by the WHO and multiple international research institutions, faces challenges from regional violence but plans expansion when safe. Drug supplies have been donated by Gilead and the U.S. government, and effective therapies would next need to be made accessible beyond the study.

Research led by University of Pittsburgh dermatologist Daniel Kaplan shows that scratching an itchy rash or bug bite activates pain-sensing nerves, which release substance P and stimulate mast cells, intensifying inflammation and prolonging the itch. Scratching may offer limited protection against some skin bacteria, but the harmful effects outweigh that potential benefit. For minor itching, antihistamines, hydrocortisone cream, calamine lotion, oatmeal baths and menthol-containing creams may provide relief and help break the itch-scratch cycle.

U.S. health advisers are reviewing Moderna’s mRNA flu vaccine, mFlusiva, as the company seeks FDA approval for adults 50 and older. Clinical data from 40,000 participants showed the shot reduced flu cases by 27 percent compared with a standard vaccine, and the FDA issued a positive initial review. Earlier disagreement within the agency centered on whether the vaccine should have been tested against high-dose options recommended for seniors, but the application was ultimately accepted. An expert panel will also evaluate a smaller comparison study, though regulators note gaps in data for frail and immunocompromised seniors.

Health officials across North America are intensifying disease surveillance during the World Cup, focusing on threats such as measles, norovirus, dengue and other infectious diseases that can spread in crowded settings. With strained public health resources, federal and local agencies are expanding wastewater testing, monitoring emergency room data and sharing daily situation reports through a new surveillance hub run by Georgetown University and MedStar Health. Measles is considered the highest-risk threat due to rising cases in the U.S., Mexico and Canada. Experts note that Ebola poses very low risk because of travel controls and its limited transmission characteristics. Public health departments are coordinating preparations, drills and expanded mosquito testing to detect early signs of outbreaks as millions gather in host cities.

An experimental drug, daraxonrasib, nearly doubled survival in patients with metastatic pancreatic cancer in a 500‑person study, offering the first substantial improvement over chemotherapy for the disease. The treatment targets KRAS mutations using a molecular binding approach that had long eluded drugmakers. Patients experienced longer treatment durations, fewer severe side effects, and improved quality of life. Researchers expect the survival advantage to grow as follow‑up continues and are exploring additional uses, including earlier‑stage treatment and potential eligibility for surgery. The FDA is expediting review and allowing expanded access. Cancer specialists view the findings as a significant turning point in developing new therapies for one of the deadliest cancers.

A new experimental hepatitis B drug, bepirovirsen, has shown promising trial results, with about 20 percent of patients achieving a functional cure that allowed them to stop all treatment while maintaining undetectable viral levels. Developed by GSK and Ionis Pharmaceuticals, the drug is now under FDA fast-track review, with additional regulatory evaluations underway in Japan, China, and Europe. The medication suppresses viral replication and the hepatitis B surface protein while boosting immune response, though researchers note that individuals with lower initial S protein levels respond better. Side effects were mostly mild, and long-term follow-up indicates sustained benefits, though further study is needed to determine durability and assess patients with more complex conditions.

Two leaders of the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force were abruptly removed by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., deepening concerns about political interference in federal health policy. The dismissals followed a year in which the Department of Health and Human Services stalled the panel’s meetings and delayed key updates on cervical cancer screenings and maternal depression. Kennedy signaled he intends to overhaul the task force, calling it insufficiently active, prompting fears among health experts that experienced scientists may be replaced with political appointees. Former members and policy analysts criticized the move as an unprecedented intrusion into established scientific processes.

Health organizations in the US offer differing recommendations on when women should begin and how often they should undergo mammograms, reflecting attempts to balance screening benefits with the risks of false positives and overtreatment. The American College of Physicians now advises biennial mammograms starting at age 50, while other groups such as the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force and the American Cancer Society recommend starting in the 40s with varying intervals. Dense breast tissue, genetic factors and individual risk profiles complicate decision-making, prompting research into more personalized screening approaches. Emerging strategies, including multifactor genetic testing, risk‑based screening models such as the WISDOM trial and AI‑supported risk assessments, aim to refine future guidelines. Women are encouraged to discuss personal risk factors with their doctors and maintain consistent screening routines.

Medical organizations in the United States offer differing recommendations on when women should begin routine mammograms and how frequently they should be screened, with age thresholds and intervals varying widely. The inconsistencies stem from attempts to balance early detection benefits against potential harms, especially for women in their 40s whose risk levels vary. Experts highlight the challenges of determining true individual risk and the limitations of mammography, particularly for women with dense breast tissue. Ongoing research, including risk‑based screening models and genetic testing, aims to refine more personalized screening strategies. Until clearer guidance emerges, women are advised to discuss personal risk factors with their doctors and follow whichever schedule they choose consistently.

A small study found that a modified form of CAR-T cell therapy suppressed HIV for extended periods in two patients who paused their standard treatment, suggesting potential for a long‑term therapeutic strategy. The engineered cells were designed to target infected cells and resist HIV infection themselves. Only participants who received chemotherapy conditioning showed strong responses, and early treatment history appeared influential. Experts consider the results promising but emphasize the need for larger studies to determine whether the approach can be effective and scalable as a future HIV therapy.

The Trump administration revised the charter of the CDC’s vaccine advisory panel in ways that broaden membership criteria and incorporate language favored by vaccine skeptics. The changes follow a court ruling that temporarily halted the panel’s work after Robert F. Kennedy Jr. removed its members and reversed several vaccine recommendations, including for COVID-19 and newborn hepatitis B shots. Health groups successfully sued to block those actions, though the administration may appeal. Critics argue the charter revisions further undermine vaccine policy and public confidence, while federal officials describe the update as routine.

Researchers used personalized digital twin models of patients’ hearts to guide ablation treatment for ventricular tachycardia, resulting in improved outcomes in a small FDA‑approved trial. Models based on advanced imaging predicted optimal ablation targets, helping doctors reduce procedure time, avoid unnecessary tissue damage, and achieve a higher success rate than standard approaches. Eight of ten patients remained free of arrhythmias after more than a year, and most discontinued medication. Larger studies are planned, and similar digital twin approaches are being explored for other cardiac arrhythmias and cancer care.

A nationwide policy reversing the use of a racially biased kidney function test has led to thousands of Black patients receiving retroactive waiting-time credit for kidney transplants, raising their priority on transplant lists. Analysis of U.S. data from 2022 to 2025 shows that the adjustment increased transplant rates for Black patients without reducing access for other groups. The outdated test had overstated kidney health in Black patients, delaying diagnosis and referral. Researchers note that fewer than one-third of eligible patients received adjustments, potentially due to inconsistent record review across hospitals. Experts call the policy a step toward equity and encourage continued efforts to address harms from race-based medical practices.

Research increasingly shows that lifelong learning and cognitively stimulating activities help slow cognitive decline and reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. A study of nearly 2,000 adults found that those with higher levels of intellectual engagement throughout life developed Alzheimer’s later and maintained better cognitive function, even when brain pathology was present. Experts emphasize combining mentally challenging activities with healthy physical habits, including exercise, blood‑pressure control, and good sleep. Additional studies suggest benefits from musical training, cognitive speed exercises, and socially engaging activities such as book clubs. Preventive measures like managing chronic conditions and receiving shingles vaccination also contribute to lowering dementia risk.

Most of the United States shifts to daylight saving time with an hour of lost sleep that can disrupt circadian rhythms and elevate short-term risks of heart attacks, strokes, and car accidents. Morning light normally resets the body’s internal clock, but extended evening light delays melatonin production and sleep onset. Health experts recommend early morning sunlight exposure and adjusting daily routines to ease the transition. Despite recurring proposals to eliminate seasonal clock changes—including a bipartisan bill to make daylight saving time permanent—major medical groups advocate instead for adopting standard time year-round to align better with human biology.

Donation after circulatory death has risen sharply in the United States, reaching nearly half of all deceased organ donors due to improved technologies that preserve organs after the heart stops. NYU researchers found wide regional variation in the practice, driven by hospital resources, familiarity with procedures, and adoption of new preservation methods. Recent isolated incidents of potential donors showing signs of life have prompted federal officials and organ procurement organizations to develop new safeguards, including documentation requirements, family education, and procedures to prevent confusion about when death occurs. Policymakers aim to strengthen trust while maintaining a donation pathway critical for addressing the nation’s organ shortage.

Jay Bhattacharya, director of the National Institutes of Health, will temporarily lead the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as the Trump administration searches for a permanent director. He becomes the third CDC head during Trump’s second term following the firing of Susan Monarez, who had rejected unsupported changes to childhood vaccination schedules. Jim O’Neill had been acting director until his recent departure. Bhattacharya, known for criticizing COVID-19 shutdowns, reaffirmed support for childhood measles vaccination in recent Senate testimony and stated there is no evidence linking individual vaccines to autism.

The FDA agreed to review Moderna’s new mRNA-based flu vaccine after resolving a dispute over the design of a 40,000-person clinical trial. The agency had initially refused to file the application, citing the absence of a comparison with a flu shot specifically recommended for adults 65 and older. Moderna countered that the FDA had previously agreed to the study design and provided additional comparison data. The company is now seeking full approval for adults 50 to 64 and accelerated approval for those 65 and older, with a follow-up study planned. Moderna shares rose following the announcement, and the FDA aims to make a decision by early August, while approvals are also being pursued in Europe, Canada, and Australia. The dispute reflects heightened scrutiny of mRNA vaccines under Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

Colorectal cancer cases and deaths among Americans under 50 continue to rise, making it the leading cancer killer in that age group despite overall national declines. Experts highlight risk factors such as obesity, inactivity, diet, smoking, alcohol use, inflammatory bowel disease, and family history, while noting that many younger patients have none of these known risks. Early symptoms often include rectal bleeding, bowel changes, abdominal pain, and unexplained weight loss, underscoring the importance of prompt evaluation. Screening is recommended starting at age 45, with earlier testing advised for those at higher risk. Researchers are exploring microbiome changes and tumor location patterns to understand what is driving the increase in younger adults.

Early studies using CRISPR-based gene editing show that permanently switching off cholesterol-related genes such as ANGPTL3 and PCSK9 can sharply lower LDL and triglyceride levels in high‑risk patients, though the research remains limited and long‑term safety is unknown. Scientists caution that gene editing may inflame the liver or affect unintended targets, and larger, longer studies are required before the approach can be considered safe. Until then, established heart‑health measures such as diet, exercise, weight control, blood‑pressure management, diabetes control and cholesterol‑lowering medications, including statins and other therapies, remain the recommended strategies.

The FDA refused to review Moderna’s application for a new mRNA-based flu vaccine, issuing a refusal‑to‑file letter citing inadequate trial design and failure to use the best standard of care for comparison. The agency noted Moderna did not follow earlier feedback from FDA officials, though the company shared additional data from a separate trial involving high‑dose vaccines for seniors. Moderna requested an urgent meeting with regulators while pursuing approvals in other countries. The decision reflects heightened scrutiny of mRNA vaccines under Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who has previously criticized the technology and enacted related policy changes. Former FDA commissioners have warned against the agency’s shift away from streamlined flu‑shot evaluation methods.

A large study shows the experimental drug enlicitide can reduce LDL cholesterol by up to 60% in high‑risk patients already taking statins, offering an oral alternative to existing injectable PCSK9 inhibitors. The drug demonstrated sustained effectiveness over a year with no significant safety differences compared to placebo. Merck, the study’s funder, plans to seek FDA approval, which could come through an accelerated review program. Experts note that while cholesterol reduction is clear, evidence that the pill lowers rates of heart attacks or strokes is still pending a larger ongoing outcomes trial.

Proposed federal regulations aim to increase the use of medically complex organs and strengthen oversight of organ procurement organizations amid declining donor numbers and slowing transplant growth. The rules would require more detailed tracking of less-than-perfect organs, clarify safety standards, and give regulators stronger tools to address underperforming groups. Supporters believe clearer definitions could help hospitals and transplant centers better utilize such organs, potentially reducing waitlist deaths, while recent public concerns over rare organ-handling incidents continue to affect donor participation.

Research indicates that individuals who stay active late at night face a higher likelihood of heart attack or stroke due to misalignment between their natural circadian rhythm and typical daily schedules. Increased risks are tied to unhealthy behaviours such as smoking, inadequate sleep and poor diet. Experts note that adopting consistent sleep routines and heart-healthy habits can help reduce these risks.

A large UK Biobank study found that people with late‑night sleep patterns face a higher risk of heart attack, stroke and poorer cardiovascular health, largely due to behaviours such as smoking, inadequate sleep and unhealthy diet. Researchers link this vulnerability to misalignment between internal circadian rhythms and early daily schedules, making heart‑healthy habits harder to maintain. Experts recommend regular sleep timing, avoiding tobacco and adhering to core heart‑health practices as effective steps for reducing risk.

A decline in deceased donor organ donations in the United States led to fewer kidney transplants, attributed to reduced public trust following rare incidents in which patients showed signs of life during planned organ retrievals. The Kidney Transplant Collaborative reported the drop while noting that a rise in living donor transplants helped offset the decrease. Overall transplants increased slightly due to gains in heart, liver, and lung procedures. Organ procurement groups urged efforts to rebuild trust and strengthen transplant safeguards.

U.S. health officials reduced the number of universally recommended childhood vaccines from 18 to 11 following a directive from Donald Trump to align U.S. guidance with peer nations. The Department of Health and Human Services framed the revisions as a way to bolster public trust, though several removed vaccines remain standard in many European countries. Major medical organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Medical Association, sharply criticized the changes, warning that they lack scientific justification and could increase preventable illnesses. Pediatricians plan to maintain previous recommendations, and states may uphold their own vaccination requirements. Despite federal revisions, insurers are expected to continue covering the full set of vaccines previously recommended through 2026.

Flu cases are rising rapidly in the United States, driven by a new H3N2 variant known as subclade K that previously affected the United Kingdom, Japan, and Canada. The CDC reports widespread illness, millions of infections, and rising hospitalizations and deaths, with New York experiencing record weekly case counts. While the year’s flu vaccine is not a perfect match for the new variant, early data suggests it still provides partial protection, particularly against severe illness, and vaccination rates remain relatively low. Experts say it is too early to determine the severity of the season, though H3N2-dominant years typically lead to more serious outbreaks. Antiviral treatments are available if taken early, and vaccination continues to be recommended for nearly everyone aged six months and older, with various formulations including the FluMist nasal spray.

Guidance for preparing for primary care visits emphasizes the importance of listing symptoms and questions, maintaining updated medical and family histories, and completing paperwork in advance to ensure accurate treatment. Dr. Sarah Nosal highlights the value of long-term relationships with primary care providers for understanding health changes, and recommends bringing a companion and asking clarifying questions during appointments to improve understanding and care outcomes.

A former National Institutes of Health scientist, Dr. Jeanne Marrazzo, filed a lawsuit alleging she was illegally fired after warning that substantial research cuts under the Trump administration jeopardized clinical trial participants and public health. The suit claims she faced whistleblower retaliation following her objections to canceled research projects and her complaint to the U.S. Office of Special Counsel. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. dismissed her weeks after she went public with her concerns. The Department of Health and Human Services declined to comment.

Leading medical organizations are pushing back against the Trump administration after a health advisory panel recommended ending routine hepatitis B vaccination for newborns and began questioning the childhood vaccine schedule. Doctors criticize the panel for excluding scientific experts, presenting no new data and featuring vaccine‑skeptic voices, prompting pediatric and public health groups to issue their own guidance based on long‑standing evidence. Physicians warn that conflicting messages risk eroding public confidence and emphasize that parents should seek trusted medical advice when making vaccine decisions.

Former FDA commissioners criticized new internal assertions by current vaccine chief Vinay Prasad, rejecting claims that COVID-19 vaccines caused child deaths and warning that proposed policy changes would undermine long‑standing scientific standards. The disputed memo, confirmed as authentic but not publicly released, advocates revising vaccine evaluation processes and suggests staff who disagree should resign. The backlash comes amid broader federal vaccine policy upheaval under Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., including leadership changes at the CDC. Former officials argue the proposed shifts would impede innovation, contradict established evidence on vaccine safety, and reduce transparency.

A large study in Costa Rica found that a single dose of the HPV vaccine provides about 97% protection against the strains most likely to cause cervical cancer, matching the effectiveness of two doses. The research, involving over 20,000 girls, supports global efforts to expand vaccination in low-income regions where uptake remains low. Experts say the findings strengthen the case for single-dose vaccination strategies, though longer-term monitoring is needed to determine the duration of protection and impacts on cancers beyond the cervix.

Autoimmune encephalitis can trigger sudden neurological decline marked by memory loss, seizures, confusion, and psychosis when rogue antibodies attack the brain. Improved diagnostic tools are helping doctors identify the condition earlier, and clinical trials are testing targeted therapies to reduce antibody production. Case studies of Christy Morrill and Kiara Alexander highlight the disease’s unpredictable onset, the difficulties in diagnosing psychiatric‑like symptoms, and the potential for recovery with timely treatment. Growing awareness, research into new antibodies, and support networks such as the Autoimmune Encephalitis Alliance are becoming increasingly important as the list of known antibody-related forms expands.

Autoimmune encephalitis can trigger sudden confusion, seizures and memory loss as the immune system mistakenly attacks the brain. Improved detection of specific antibodies has led to earlier diagnosis, though symptoms often resemble psychiatric disorders. Treatment options such as antibody filtration, immune infusions and steroids can lead to full or partial recovery, but some patients retain lasting memory gaps. Clinical trials are testing targeted therapies to reduce antibody production. Patients Christy Morrill and Kiara Alexander experienced severe memory disruption and seizures before diagnosis but improved with treatment, highlighting the need for greater awareness and faster recognition of the condition.

A California man experienced severe memory loss and neurological decline caused by LGI1-antibody autoimmune encephalitis, a rare immune disorder that inflames the brain. After months of confusion, seizures, and delusions, treatment with steroids and antiseizure medication gradually improved his condition. Although he regained daily functioning, he permanently lost decades of autobiographical memories, retaining factual knowledge while personal recollections remain inaccessible. Ongoing recovery focuses on building new memories and returning to activities he enjoys, supported by early diagnosis and sustained medical care.

Children with autoimmune diseases such as lupus and juvenile arthritis face unique medical challenges, from difficult diagnoses to treatments that weaken developing immune systems. Researchers are advancing new approaches, including a pediatric CAR-T therapy trial and an effort to prevent fetal heart defects linked to maternal autoimmune disorders. A partnership between a New York hospital and a sleepaway camp allows affected children to enjoy typical activities under medical supervision, offering relief from strict medication routines and providing moments of normalcy for families and clinicians alike.

Scientists at the National Institutes of Health and Johns Hopkins University are using advanced imaging and emerging therapies to investigate the causes of autoimmune diseases, including Type 1 diabetes, myositis and lupus. Research highlights include mapping the activity of rogue T cells, identifying how harmful antibodies damage muscle cells, and exploring why autoimmune disorders disproportionately affect women. Early-phase clinical trials aim to correct dysfunctional immune pathways, while experimental technologies at Hopkins target killer immune cells and B cells to improve future treatment options.

Researchers are advancing new techniques to treat autoimmune diseases by reprogramming immune systems rather than suppressing them. CAR-T therapy, adapted from cancer treatment, has produced remarkable early results including sustained remission in severely ill patients, prompting global expansion of clinical trials. Additional approaches include engineered regulatory T cells, T cell–engaging antibodies such as teclistamab, and mRNA-delivered immune instructions packaged in nanoparticles. Scientists are also working to predict and prevent autoimmune disease onset, with teplizumab already delaying Type 1 diabetes symptoms. While significant research and safety evaluation remain ahead, early outcomes suggest the potential for transformative therapies over the next decade.

Preliminary research linking long-term melatonin use to higher heart failure rates among insomnia patients is described as inconclusive, with cardiology experts emphasizing that observational data cannot show causation. Variability in supplement regulation, unrecorded U.S. over-the-counter use, unknown dosages, and lack of peer review limit the findings. Physicians recommend short-term melatonin use and improved sleep hygiene while calling for more rigorous research.

Autoimmune diseases affect tens of millions of people, disproportionately women, and involve the immune system mistakenly attacking the body. Diagnosis is often difficult because symptoms overlap and emerge gradually. Research is advancing toward treatments that may reprogram the immune system, with promising early results for conditions such as lupus and myositis, and efforts are under way to identify early molecular triggers. Environmental factors, hormones, genetics and immune regulation play roles in risk. While treatment options have expanded beyond broad immunosuppressants, care remains complex, lifelong and costly.

A Massachusetts woman’s prolonged struggle for a lupus diagnosis illustrates the complexity of autoimmune diseases as scientists advance research aimed at targeting their root causes. Recent breakthroughs, including CAR-T therapy and the drug teplizumab, offer promising steps toward treatment and prevention. Researchers are uncovering genetic, environmental, and immune‑cell pathways behind conditions such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and Type 1 diabetes, while studying disease subtypes and early triggers like abnormal neutrophil activity. The patient now advocates for recognizing daily cognitive and quality‑of‑life impacts in treatment development and participates in long‑term studies designed to map variations in lupus and improve future care.

Ruth Wilson’s experience with lupus illustrates the unpredictable and debilitating nature of the autoimmune disease, marked by chronic pain, fatigue and severe flare‑ups. Her long path to diagnosis and ongoing management with medications and IV treatments reflect broader challenges faced by millions with autoimmune disorders. Wilson participates in research through the Lupus Research Alliance and supports other patients through advocacy and support groups while balancing family and work demands.

A clinical trial has begun testing gene-edited pig kidneys in human transplant recipients, with the first procedure successfully completed at NYU Langone Health. Led by Dr Robert Montgomery and backed by United Therapeutics, the study will start with six participants and may expand to 50, while eGenesis prepares a parallel trial. The effort seeks to ease the severe shortage of donor organs by genetically modifying pig organs to improve compatibility, following earlier mixed outcomes from compassionate-use transplants.

A clinical trial has begun at NYU Langone Health to transplant gene‑edited pig kidneys into humans, marking the first such study of its kind. United Therapeutics developed the organs, which include ten genetic modifications to improve compatibility. Six participants will be enrolled initially, with potential expansion to 50. Previous compassionate‑use cases have shown mixed results, with some patients surviving several months before returning to dialysis. A second company, eGenesis, plans to launch a similar trial soon as researchers work to address the shortage of donor kidneys in the United States.

Daylight saving time ends at 2 a.m. Sunday in the US, bringing an extra hour of sleep but also prompting concerns about the health effects of biannual clock changes. Research from Stanford University indicates that switching between standard and daylight saving time is the least healthy option, with permanent standard time offering slightly better alignment with human circadian rhythms. Morning sunlight is highlighted as essential for resetting the body’s internal clock, while evening light can disrupt melatonin production. Time changes can temporarily affect sleep schedules, increase accident risks, and worsen issues such as seasonal affective disorder and chronic sleep deprivation. Health organizations advocate for permanent standard time, and a congressional proposal to make daylight saving time permanent has stalled.

A New Hampshire man, Tim Andrews, had a gene-edited pig kidney removed after the organ began failing, ending a record 271-day survival and requiring him to restart dialysis. His case advances xenotransplantation research, building on previous shorter-lived attempts and informing ongoing clinical studies. More patients are enrolled in Mass General’s pilot program, while companies including eGenesis and United Therapeutics prepare broader clinical trials. China has also reported early results from similar procedures, underscoring global efforts to expand organ transplant options.

Research from MD Anderson Cancer Center and the University of Florida indicates that mRNA COVID-19 vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna may enhance the effectiveness of checkpoint inhibitor treatments for advanced lung and skin cancer by boosting immune response. Patients who received an mRNA shot within 100 days of beginning immunotherapy showed significantly longer survival, with nearly double the three‑year survival rate among vaccinated lung cancer patients. The findings suggest that mRNA technology may sensitize tumors to immune attack, prompting plans for more rigorous studies and the development of mRNA‑based cancer vaccines.

Pediatricians and public health experts urge U.S. residents aged six months and older to get flu vaccinations in October, highlighting heightened risks for seniors, pregnant women, young children and those with chronic illnesses. Last season saw the highest number of flu-related child deaths in 15 years, with most unvaccinated. Flu vaccination during pregnancy protects both mother and newborn, while high-dose formulations are recommended for seniors. The nasal spray FluMist is now available for at-home use in select states. Vaccines are generally free through Medicare, Medicaid, and most insurance plans, and can be administered alongside COVID-19 vaccines.

Oregon Health & Science University researchers created fertilizable egg-like cells from human skin cells but found significant chromosomal abnormalities, underscoring the need for years of further work before potential human trials. The technique demonstrated early proof‑of‑concept for producing lab‑grown eggs or sperm that could assist infertile individuals or same‑sex couples, though experts offered mixed reactions about its readiness. The experiment yielded a small number of embryos that developed to the blastocyst stage, but none were genetically normal, prompting ongoing efforts to refine the chromosome‑reduction process.

Medical experts and scientific organizations dispute several false or misleading statements made by Donald Trump regarding autism, vaccines, Tylenol use during pregnancy and related health issues. Autism rates have increased due to broader diagnostic criteria, not medications or vaccines. No causal link has been proven between acetaminophen use in pregnancy and autism, and avoiding necessary treatment can pose significant risks. Claims about autism being absent in Cuba or Amish communities are incorrect. Childhood vaccines remain safe and essential, with no evidence supporting Trump’s assertions about vaccine overload or timing. Medical authorities affirm the importance of established vaccination schedules and caution that a proposed folate-based autism treatment lacks sufficient evidence.

Autism is described as a developmental condition shaped primarily by genetics, with hundreds of genes implicated and additional risk factors such as paternal age, preterm birth, and maternal health issues during pregnancy. Rising autism rates are attributed largely to broadened diagnostic criteria and increased awareness rather than an expansion of severe cases. Vaccines are reaffirmed as unrelated to autism, countering long-debunked claims. Reports indicate the Trump administration may propose a link between prenatal Tylenol use and autism, although evidence remains inconclusive and medical groups emphasize the importance of treating fever during pregnancy due to known risks.

Kennedy’s vaccine advisory panel weighs recommendations on COVID-19 shots after the FDA limited access to updated vaccines to older adults and high-risk groups, prompting widespread confusion. CDC advisers, some skeptical of past COVID-19 policies, delayed a decision on whether to change longstanding guidance on hepatitis B shots for newborns and approved narrower recommendations for MMRV use in young children. Public health officials and medical groups emphasize the importance of broad vaccine access as COVID-19 continues to cause significant hospitalizations and deaths, while insurers indicate they will maintain coverage through 2026.

The Trump administration moved to shut down Miami’s Life Alliance Organ Recovery Agency after finding underperformance, safety issues, and administrative errors, including a mistake that led a surgeon to decline a donated heart. CMS Director Mehmet Oz cited missed donor recoveries, misdirected organs, and staffing shortages. The agency, part of the University of Miami Health System, may appeal, and closure would mark the first federal decertification of an organ procurement organization. The action comes amid broader efforts to improve the U.S. transplant system, increase donations, and strengthen safeguards following past complaints involving other OPOs.

A 54-year-old athletic trainer from New Hampshire, Bill Stewart, is recovering well after receiving an experimental gene-edited pig kidney at Massachusetts General Hospital, joining a small group of patients testing xenotransplantation as a solution to the organ shortage. His case follows another recipient, Tim Andrews, whose pig kidney has functioned for over seven months, surpassing previous records. These results have helped secure FDA approval for a new clinical trial by eGenesis that will provide pig kidney transplants to 30 older patients on the transplant list, while United Therapeutics prepares a similar study. Early monitoring shows manageable rejection concerns, and researchers say even temporary kidney function could significantly reduce reliance on dialysis while patients await human donors.

The United States will purchase enough doses of the HIV prevention drug lenacapvir to supply up to two million people in low-income countries by 2028 through the PEPFAR program. Gilead Sciences will sell the doses at cost, and distribution will be coordinated with affected governments, prioritizing pregnant and breastfeeding women. The Global Fund will collaborate on rollout plans as global health officials emphasize the drug’s strong effectiveness and importance as a bridge until generic versions become available. The initiative follows earlier foreign aid cuts that disrupted HIV services in several countries.

mRNA vaccine technology, credited with saving millions of lives during the COVID-19 pandemic, is being explored for expanded uses including treatments for cancer, cystic fibrosis and other infectious diseases. U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. canceled major federal research projects aimed at developing new mRNA vaccines for respiratory threats, drawing criticism from experts who emphasize the technology’s speed advantage in preparing for future pandemics. Scientists highlight that mRNA platforms allow rapid vaccine updates, unlike traditional methods that require lengthy virus cultivation. Research is also advancing on mRNA-based therapies targeting pancreatic cancer and genetic diseases, reflecting growing potential beyond vaccines.

A large U.S. study found that older adults can slow age‑related cognitive decline by combining regular physical activity, healthy eating, social engagement, and structured brain exercises. Participants ages 60 to 79 who followed a supervised lifestyle program performed as though they were one to two years younger on cognitive tests, while both intervention and control groups improved. Researchers are assessing brain scans and blood tests to see whether the changes also affect biological markers of Alzheimer’s disease. The findings emphasize that multiple lifestyle factors—not single habits—contribute to better cognitive aging, and follow-up will track long‑term adherence and health outcomes.

Federal investigators identified failures in a Kentucky organ procurement organization that continued donation preparations for patients showing signs of life, prompting new national safeguards. Lawmakers emphasized the need to restore trust in the transplant system as oversight agencies instructed improvements and clarified that any party may halt donation preparations if concerns arise. Officials highlighted the technical complexity of organ donation, the roles of hospitals and OPOs, and recent procedural changes intended to prevent future near misses while supporting the broader transplant network.

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt reported that Donald Trump was evaluated for mild swelling in his lower legs and was diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency, a common condition in older adults. Tests ruled out deep vein thrombosis, arterial disease and blood clots. Leavitt also said that bruising on Trump’s hand is consistent with irritation from frequent handshaking and aspirin use, adding that he remains in excellent health and that the doctor’s letter will be released publicly.

Two U.S. university medical teams have developed simpler methods to preserve hearts from donation after circulatory death, potentially expanding the supply of transplantable hearts for both infants and adults. Duke University surgeons tested a technique that briefly assesses a stopped heart on a sterile table, enabling successful transplantation into an infant. Vanderbilt University uses a cold preservative infusion before organ removal and has performed about 25 such transplants. The approaches aim to avoid controversial or costly existing methods and could help address the significant shortage of donor hearts, particularly for infants. Early results are promising, according to medical ethics experts.

Access to RSV vaccination was broadened on a CDC webpage to include high‑risk adults in their 50s, aligning with recommendations from an advisory panel that had been dismissed by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. The update appeared despite the absence of a CDC director and followed Kennedy’s replacement of the original expert committee with vaccine skeptics, raising concerns among medical groups. The change, reportedly adopted on June 25, comes amid broader controversy over Kennedy’s unilateral alterations to vaccine policy.

A newly reconstituted vaccine advisory committee led by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy is preparing to vote on fall flu vaccine recommendations and the use of thimerosal, a preservative long discredited as a cause of autism but still criticized by vaccine skeptics. The committee will also consider recommending an additional RSV-protective antibody for newborns. Public health officials warn that revisiting thimerosal could undermine confidence in vaccines and hinder access if recommendations shift away from established scientific guidance. Concerns have been raised over the removal of the previous committee and its replacement with members aligned with vaccine skepticism, heightening fears that upcoming decisions may be driven by ideology rather than science.

Newly appointed vaccine advisers under Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. began their first ACIP meeting amid concerns from medical experts about changes to U.S. vaccination policy. The committee convened despite Kennedy’s earlier announcement that COVID-19 vaccines would no longer be recommended for healthy children or pregnant women, contradicting CDC data emphasizing ongoing risks. The meeting follows Kennedy’s dismissal of the previous 17-member panel and his appointment of eight replacements, some with anti-vaccine views, prompting criticism from lawmakers and medical organizations. The American Academy of Pediatrics withdrew from the ACIP process, calling it no longer credible. The restructured committee is set to vote on recommendations related to RSV and flu vaccines, with debates expected over long‑standing evidence on vaccine safety. ACIP recommendations currently route directly to Kennedy due to the absence of a CDC director, heightening uncertainty about future vaccine policy.

The FDA approved lenacapavir as a twice-yearly preventive HIV shot, offering the longest-lasting form of PrEP and potentially expanding access for high‑risk groups. Studies in multiple countries show the injection to be highly effective, particularly among women and LGBTQ+ individuals. Experts note that healthcare system gaps, reduced public health funding, and declines in U.S. foreign HIV aid threaten widespread adoption. The drug, produced by Gilead Sciences, will be sold as Yeztugo for prevention and is seen by advocates as a key tool in reducing global HIV transmission rates.

The FDA approved lenacapavir, a twice-yearly injectable form of PrEP that showed no HIV infections among trial participants and could significantly reduce HIV transmission by improving adherence. Advocacy groups see it as a major advancement, but broad access may be limited by cuts to public health funding and challenges in the U.S. healthcare system.

The United States approved lenacapavir, sold as Yeztugo, as the first twice-yearly injection for HIV prevention, offering a highly effective long-acting alternative to daily PrEP medication. While clinical trials showed near-complete prevention of new infections across multiple high‑risk groups, access barriers threaten widespread adoption, including high pricing, insurance uncertainties, and weakened public health infrastructure in the US. Global rollout plans include agreements for low‑cost generic production in 120 low‑income countries, though concerns remain about affordability and exclusion of middle‑income nations. Experts emphasize the drug’s potential to significantly reduce HIV transmission if equitable access is ensured.

Newly appointed CDC vaccine advisers selected by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. plan to forgo expected votes on COVID‑19 and other routine vaccines, focusing instead on issues such as thimerosal that have long fueled antivaccine narratives. Key medical organizations warn that the shift sidelines well‑researched vaccine policy and could undermine public health. The agenda excludes considerations of HPV and meningococcal vaccines, prompting concerns from pediatric leaders about politicized decision‑making. Experts note that targeting thimerosal could raise costs and reduce vaccine availability. Doctors' groups also oppose Kennedy’s broader restructuring of the advisory committee, while indicating they may issue independent recommendations if federal guidance diverges from scientific consensus.

U.S. COVID‑19 vaccine access has become uncertain following Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s announcement ending recommendations for healthy children and pregnant women and earlier limits placed on healthy adults under 65. Experts warn that shifting guidance from political leadership instead of scientific panels is generating confusion for insurers, providers and the public. Updated vaccines are expected in the fall, but the FDA plans to restrict authorization to seniors and high‑risk individuals while insurers reassess coverage decisions. Unclear qualification criteria, conflicting statements about pregnancy and differing risk‑condition lists add further complications, potentially leaving some high‑risk individuals unaware of their eligibility without protection.

FDA advisers are evaluating whether COVID‑19 vaccines require new strain updates for the coming fall as shifting federal policy restricts routine boosters to seniors and high‑risk individuals. The change raises uncertainty about access for healthy adults and children, insurance coverage, and guidance for infants. Manufacturers may need new studies if vaccine strains are updated, complicating fall rollout plans. Experts are debating whether the current JN.1‑based formulations provide sufficient protection or if vaccines should match the emerging LP.8.1 subtype. Final recommendations on who should receive fall boosters will follow separate CDC advisory panel deliberations.

Annual COVID-19 vaccinations will no longer be routinely approved for healthy younger adults and children under new FDA guidelines issued by the Trump administration. The framework prioritizes streamlined access for older adults and individuals with health risks while requiring extensive studies before approving updated vaccines for healthier populations. Officials including Marty Makary and Vinay Prasad argue that the previous universal approach was overly aggressive, while experts such as Paul Offit warn the changes may reduce access and insurance coverage. The CDC advisory panel is expected to evaluate broader recommendations as questions persist over the benefits of yearly boosters for low-risk individuals.

RFK Jr. secured support to lead US health policy by pledging stability in the vaccine system, yet federal health agencies are now signaling major shifts that could limit future vaccine availability. FDA leadership has delayed approvals, imposed new requirements, and questioned the value of routine COVID-19 boosters, contributing to uncertainty ahead of fall vaccinations. CDC has postponed action on key immunization recommendations, while NIH has withdrawn vaccine hesitancy research funding. Critics warn that the new stance may hinder vaccine development and undermine longstanding evaluation standards, while experts emphasize that updated COVID-19 vaccines continue to offer meaningful protection for high-risk groups.

The FDA granted full approval to Novavax’s protein-based COVID-19 vaccine but restricted use to adults 65 and older and younger individuals with elevated health risks. The decision diverges from broader approvals for Pfizer and Moderna’s vaccines and signals a possible policy direction ahead of upcoming CDC advisory discussions. Novavax welcomed the move, while the FDA required additional post‑approval studies, including research into potential cardiac concerns and vaccine benefits for lower‑risk adults.

A federally funded Denver project that used community‑created videos to encourage flu vaccination in a historically Black neighborhood was abruptly canceled by the Trump administration before researchers could analyze results, halting more than two years of work. Community members and health experts expressed concern over the loss of data amid rising flu deaths, measles outbreaks, and broader vaccine hesitancy. Pediatrician Joshua Williams, who led the study, partnered with local organizations to develop storytelling‑based interventions, but the cancellation jeopardizes both the findings and researchers' careers. Health leaders warn that cuts to vaccine‑related research and public‑health funding undermine efforts to rebuild trust and combat preventable disease outbreaks.

The Trump administration directed the FDA to pause the full approval process for Novavax’s COVID‑19 vaccine, prompting new agency demands for additional clinical trials and raising concerns that similar requirements could affect other vaccine makers. FDA Commissioner Marty Makary suggested updated formulations may be treated as new products requiring new studies, diverging from long‑standing flu‑vaccine practices. Experts warn such a shift could delay updated vaccines and expose the agency to legal challenges if requirements appear politically driven. Health officials and vaccine specialists emphasized the extensive safety and effectiveness data already available from large trials and widespread real‑world use.

Novavax reports that its protein-based COVID‑19 vaccine is advancing toward full FDA approval following additional discussions with regulators, prompting a sharp rise in its share price. The FDA had delayed the decision after acting commissioner Sara Brenner paused the review, raising concerns about potential political interference linked to Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Full approval would allow Novavax’s vaccine to remain on the U.S. market indefinitely, unlike products authorized only for emergency use. The report also outlines differences among U.S. COVID‑19 vaccines and notes recent leadership changes at the FDA involving longtime vaccine chief Peter Marks.

FDA clearance will allow U.S. researchers to test whether externally attached, gene‑edited pig livers can temporarily filter blood for patients experiencing sudden liver failure, potentially giving their own organs time to recover. Up to 20 intensive‑care patients who are not eligible for transplants will receive the treatment using an OrganOx device to circulate blood through the pig liver. Early tests on deceased donors showed the approach could support liver function for several days, adding momentum to broader efforts to use gene‑edited pig organs in human medicine.

A woman in Alabama had a genetically modified pig kidney removed after her body began rejecting it following 130 days, the longest duration for a pig organ in a human. Towana Looney, who had been ineligible for a human kidney transplant, initially responded well to the xenotransplant before complications prompted removal. Doctors cite immune system changes and infection-related adjustments to medication as possible triggers. Researchers say her case provides important insights for upcoming clinical trials as efforts continue to address organ shortages through genetically engineered pig organs.

Researchers created the most detailed functional brain map to date by analyzing 84,000 neurons and 500 million synapses in a mouse’s visual cortex while it viewed video clips. Using glowing neuron activity, ultra-thin tissue slicing, electron microscopy, and AI-driven 3D reconstruction, scientists from several institutions produced an extensive, publicly accessible neural wiring dataset. The project, supported by NIH’s BRAIN Initiative and IARPA, is described as an important step toward understanding how neural circuitry works and how abnormalities may contribute to disorders such as Alzheimer’s and autism. Experts note the mapping could lay the foundation for future breakthroughs similar to those enabled by the Human Genome Project.

Research indicates the shingles vaccine may reduce dementia risk by about 20 percent over seven years. The findings stem from an older version of the vaccine, while a newer, more effective formulation is now recommended for adults over 50. Scientists suggest links between shingles and dementia may involve inflammation, blood vessel infection in the brain, and amyloid protein formation. Additional studies are needed to confirm whether the current vaccine provides the same level of dementia protection.

A study of adults in Wales found that receiving the shingles vaccine reduced dementia risk by about 20 percent over seven years, with women showing greater benefit. Researchers suggest the shingles virus may contribute to dementia through inflammation, blood vessel effects, and amyloid formation. The analysis used an age-based vaccination cutoff to mimic randomized conditions and evaluated the older Zostavax vaccine, though early evidence suggests the newer Shingrix vaccine may offer similar protection. Health agencies and researchers plan further investigation into vaccine type and cognitive outcomes.