CDC Director Endorses New RSV Antibody as RFK Jr. Approves Influenza Vaccine Recommendation
CDC Director Susan Monarez, recently confirmed by the Senate, endorsed on Aug. 4 the antibody called clesrovimab for infants born during or entering their first respiratory virus season, the CDC said on its website.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
CBS News
3 minutes ago
- CBS News
Placer County targets biting flies amid virus concerns
They're so small they're called "no-see-ums," but these tiny biting flies are getting big attention from local scientists and for good reason. The Placer Mosquito and Vector Control District is working alongside the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to trap and study a species of biting fly that could pose a public health risk. Known as biting midges or gnats, these insects have the potential to carry and transmit Oropouche virus, a disease that's been spreading rapidly in parts of the Caribbean, South America, and even Europe. "The biting flies we're talking about are very, very small and like mosquitoes, they can carry diseases," said Joel Buettner, General Manager of the Placer Mosquito and Vector Control District. "That's why we're interested in them." Oropouche virus has so far remained outside the United States. But experts are concerned that if it ever reaches California, understanding the local species of biting flies and whether they can transmit the virus will be critical to preventing an outbreak. To get ahead of the risk, the district is using specially modified light traps to capture flies across Placer County. The traps attract the flies with a light source, then funnel them down into a vial that's taken back to the lab for analysis. "We look for specific body shapes, wing patterns, and those piercing mouth parts that allow them to bite," said vector control technician Melissa Cooke. Each captured insect is examined under a microscope to determine if it belongs to the species capable of spreading disease. The research is part of a broader surveillance project in collaboration with the American Mosquito Control Association, running through the summer. Scientists hope it will give them a clearer picture of the biting fly population in Placer County and the potential threat they may pose. In the meantime, officials say residents can take simple steps to protect themselves: wear EPA-registered insect repellent, especially in the early morning or evening when biting flies are most active. "It's really about being prepared," Buettner added. "The work we're doing now helps ensure we're ready if Oropouche virus ever makes its way to California."
CBS News
an hour ago
- CBS News
Report: 13 cases of flesh-eating bacteria, eight deaths confirmed in Florida
Florida has confirmed 13 cases of Vibrio vulnificus—often called "flesh-eating" bacteria—across 11 counties this year, with eight deaths, the Florida Department of Health told CBS News Miami partner el Nuevo Herald. Officials said eight cases were tied to wound exposure but stressed the infections are "sporadic and unrelated to an outbreak." The Sunshine State saw its highest-ever case count in 2024—82 infections and 19 deaths—with health officials noting that hurricanes and storm surges, such as those from Hurricane Helene last year, can push coastal waters inland, heightening infection risks. The bacteria, found in saltwater and brackish water, can cause severe illness or death within one to two days, according to the CDC. Most cases in the U.S. occur in Gulf Coast states. Read the full story from Miami Herald's Sonia Osorio here. Dr. Edward Hirsch, an infectious disease specialist at HCA Florida University Hospital, recommends rinsing off after swimming in ocean water and ensuring seafood is thoroughly cooked. "It's very frightening. Luckily, it's very rare," he added. Here are some key facts about Vibrio vulnificus, according to the CDC: For more information, visit the CDC's Vibrio page.
Yahoo
3 hours ago
- Yahoo
New CDC report shows more than half of our diets are made up of ultra-processed foods
In today's Health Alert, a new CDC report finds most kids' diets are packed with ultra-processed foods. So, what are they eating and why does it matter? Solve the daily Crossword
