Chicago Department of Public Health loses COVID-related grants as part of $125M federal funding rescission
The Chicago Department of Public Health announced on Friday that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has cut some of its COVID-related grants this week.
This comes as the federal government cut $11.4 billion in COVID-related grants, which were partly used for testing, virus research, and community health jobs.
On Monday, $125 million in funding for Illinois services was cut. According to the city's public health department, the cuts affect 22 contracts and over 100 staff positions.
"The COVID-19 pandemic shined a spotlight on how woefully underfunded public health was, and these vital federal funds helped CDPH and other public health agencies around the nation to be better equipped to manage complex health challenges that impact Chicagoans," CDPH Commissioner Dr. Olusimbo Ige said.
Mayor Brandon Johnson said he is concerned about the move as it will impact those in vulnerable communities.
"As we learned through the COVID-19 pandemic, it is essential for us to invest in preventative measures and monitoring to protect our communities from future outbreaks. This funding cut is counterproductive to our mission of keeping our communities safe and healthy. I strongly urge the federal government to restore this critical investment in our local health departments and recommit to protecting our residents," he said.
The cut services were used to combat COVID-19, measles, and H5N1 disease while preventing another pandemic like the one seen in 2020.
"If allowed to stand, this funding cut will set back critical upgrades to our public health labs, the technology used to track infectious diseases like H5N1 avian flu and measles, vaccination efforts, and our ongoing work to better prepare for the next public health emergency," IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra said.
Without the funding, CDPH says people will see fewer immunization clinics and vaccination events, fewer opportunities to monitor and respond to infectious diseases, and fewer supplies to prevent the spread of diseases.
The cuts come amid the
Trump administration's plans to shrink the Health and Human Services workforce
as part of a departmental restructuring.
Mikayla Price
contributed to this report.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Yahoo
an hour ago
- Yahoo
Nontuberculous Mycobacterial (NTM) Diagnostic Market to Reach USD 3,261.1 million By 2032, Growing At An 6.64% CAGR
PUNE, India, June 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- According to the latest research by Credence Research, the global Nontuberculous Mycobacterial (NTM) Diagnostic Market was valued at USD 1,814.8 million in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 3,261.1 million by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.64% during the forecast period. The rising incidence of NTM infections, especially among immunocompromised patients and individuals with chronic pulmonary conditions, is a primary factor driving market demand. Technological advancements in molecular diagnostics and imaging techniques are significantly enhancing detection accuracy and speed, leading to faster diagnosis and improved clinical outcomes. Healthcare providers are increasingly adopting advanced diagnostic platforms to address the complexities of identifying NTM species, which often mimic other pulmonary disorders. This shift is further supported by growing awareness of NTM-related diseases and stronger clinical guidelines for early screening and diagnosis. Expanding healthcare infrastructure across emerging markets, coupled with increased investments in R&D by diagnostics companies, is expected to accelerate market expansion over the coming years. Browse the report and understand how it can benefit your business strategy- Key Growth Determinants: Nontuberculous Mycobacterial (NTM) Diagnostic Market The growth of the NTM Diagnostic Market is primarily driven by the rising global prevalence of NTM infections, particularly among the aging population and individuals with underlying lung conditions such as COPD, bronchiectasis, and cystic fibrosis. As awareness of these infections increases among healthcare professionals, the demand for timely and accurate diagnostic solutions is expanding. This trend is supported by an uptick in hospital admissions and outpatient consultations related to unexplained pulmonary symptoms, where NTM is an emerging differential diagnosis. Another key growth determinant is the rapid advancement in diagnostic technologies. Innovations in molecular diagnostics, PCR-based assays, and next-generation sequencing (NGS) are enabling faster, more precise identification of various NTM species, overcoming the limitations of traditional culture methods. Furthermore, increased funding for infectious disease research and growing collaborations between public health organizations and diagnostic manufacturers are creating favorable conditions for product development and market penetration. The rising implementation of clinical guidelines recommending early testing for at-risk populations is also bolstering the adoption of advanced NTM diagnostics globally. Key Growth Barriers: Nontuberculous Mycobacterial (NTM) Diagnostic Market Limited Awareness and MisdiagnosisMany clinicians and patients remain unaware of NTM infections, which often mimic tuberculosis or other chronic pulmonary conditions. This lack of awareness leads to frequent misdiagnosis or delayed testing, particularly in settings with limited diagnostic infrastructure. Diagnostic Complexity and InaccessibilityAccurate identification of NTM species is essential for effective treatment, but traditional culture methods are time-consuming and may lack sensitivity. Advanced molecular diagnostic tools, though more effective, are not widely accessible in many regions, especially in developing markets. Resource Constraints in Healthcare FacilitiesComprehensive NTM diagnostics require specialized laboratory equipment, trained personnel, and standardized testing protocols. Many healthcare systems, especially in low- and middle-income countries, face limitations in implementing such advanced diagnostics. Regulatory and Reimbursement ChallengesNavigating regulatory approval for new diagnostic tools can be time-consuming and costly. In addition, limited reimbursement policies for advanced NTM diagnostic tests discourage healthcare providers from adopting innovative solutions. Segmentation Based on Diagnostic Method: Nucleic Acid Amplification Tests (NAAT) Microscopy Culture-based Methods Biochemical Tests Immunological Tests PCR Others Based on Infection Type: Pulmonary Cutaneous Disseminated Gastrointestinal Others Based on End-User: Hospitals & Clinics Diagnostic Laboratories Others Based on region North America Europe Asia Pacific Latin America Middle East & Africa Preview the report with a detailed sample and understand how it can benefit your business strategy. Request a free sample today - Regional Analysis: Nontuberculous Mycobacterial (NTM) Diagnostic Market North America holds the largest share of the global NTM Diagnostic Market, accounting for approximately 39% of total revenue in 2023. This dominance is driven by advanced healthcare infrastructure, widespread use of molecular diagnostic technologies, and high awareness of NTM-related diseases. The presence of major diagnostic companies and strong R&D funding further support market growth in the United States and Canada. Europe follows with around 27% of the market share. Countries like Germany, the UK, and France are key contributors, supported by growing recognition of NTM infections, aging populations, and well-established public health systems. Increased focus on early diagnosis and the adoption of advanced testing tools continue to fuel regional demand. Asia-Pacific accounts for roughly 23% of the global market. Rapid improvements in healthcare infrastructure, growing patient awareness, and increased investments in diagnostic technologies are propelling growth in China, Japan, South Korea, and India. Partnerships between international diagnostic firms and regional players are expanding access to accurate NTM testing. Latin America represents about 6% of the market, led by Brazil, Mexico, and Argentina. Market growth is supported by public health campaigns and improved diagnostic capabilities, though infrastructure disparities in remote areas remain a challenge. Middle East & Africa comprise the smallest share, approximately 5% in 2023. While diagnostic capacity remains limited in many parts of the region, targeted investments in laboratory services and healthcare modernization—especially in the GCC and South Africa—are gradually improving market potential. Credence Research's Competitive Landscape Analysis Credence Research's Competitive Landscape Analysis presents a clear and focused view of key industry players in the NTM diagnostic segment with a spotlight on strategic strengths and market positioning: Credence Research identifies a handful of dominant multinational diagnostics firms—Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc., F. Hoffmann‑La Roche Ltd, Becton, Dickinson & Company (BD), and bioMérieux SA—as frontrunners in the global NTM diagnostic market. These companies differentiate themselves via wide-ranging product portfolios that encompass both molecular and immunological diagnostic tools. They cater to centralized laboratory settings and decentralized testing environments, ensuring flexibility across different healthcare infrastructures. Their strong investment in R&D, global distribution networks, and robust service support contribute to their sustained competitive edge and rapid product adoption. Through its analysis, Credence Research highlights how these industry leaders are not only maintaining market dominance but also expanding access to advanced NTM diagnostic solutions via collaborations, innovative product development, and targeted regional strategies—positioning themselves to capitalise on the projected market growth. Tailor the report to align with your specific business needs and gain targeted insights. Request Full Report Here- Key Player Analysis Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd Becton, Dickinson and Company (BD) bioMérieux SA Bruker Corporation SD Biosensor Bioneer Seegene Inc. Recent Industry Developments June 2025 – Thermo Fisher Scientific introduced two advanced mass spectrometry instruments—the Orbitrap Astral Zoom and Orbitrap Excedion Pro—during the ASMS conference. Designed primarily for proteomics and biopharma applications, these systems deliver enhanced speed and sensitivity, significantly advancing the analysis of complex biological samples. Their improved resolution and throughput have potential applications in infectious disease diagnostics, including NTM-related testing. December 2024 – Shanghai MicuRx Pharmaceutical ( announced that the U.S. FDA granted Orphan Drug Designation (ODD) to its investigational anti-infective drug MRX-5 for the treatment of NTM infections, representing a significant step in developing targeted therapies for this condition. September 2023 – QIAGEN entered a strategic partnership with a major South Asian healthcare provider to integrate its proprietary diagnostics into regional laboratories, enhancing capabilities for detecting and managing NTM infections. August 2023 – bioMérieux expanded its infectious disease portfolio through the acquisition of a biotech company specializing in NTM diagnostics. July 2023 – Hologic, Inc. secured regulatory approval for a new diagnostic test specifically developed to identify NTM infections, reinforcing its commitment to infectious disease diagnostics. January 2022 – Gaelan Medical Trade LLC partnered with RedHill Biopharma Ltd. to distribute Talicia (omeprazole magnesium, amoxicillin, and rifabutin) in the United Arab Emirates. Though primarily approved for H. pylori, its components hold relevance in mycobacterial infection strategies. February 2021 – Koninklijke Philips N.V. completed the acquisition of BioTelemetry, Inc., a leader in remote monitoring and diagnostics, potentially expanding future integration of infectious disease tracking technologies. Reasons to Purchase this Report: Gain a comprehensive understanding of the market through qualitative and quantitative analyses, considering both economic and non-economic factors, with segmentation and sub-segmentation details provided in terms of market value (USD Billion). Identify regions and segments expected to experience the fastest growth or dominate the market, with a detailed analysis of geographic consumption patterns and the factors driving or hindering market performance in each region. Stay informed about the competitive environment, with rankings of major players, recent product and service launches, partnerships, business expansions, and acquisitions from the past five years. Access detailed profiles of major market players, including company overviews, insights, product benchmarking, and SWOT analysis, to understand competitive advantages and market positioning. Explore the present and forecasted market landscape, with insights into growth opportunities, market drivers, challenges, and constraints for both developed and emerging regions. Benefit from Porter's Five Forces analysis and Value Chain insights to evaluate various market perspectives and competitive dynamics. Understand the evolving market scenario, including potential growth opportunities and trends expected in the coming years. Browse the report and understand how it can benefit your business strategy - Discover additional reports tailored to your industry needs Ocular Drug Delivery System Market - Pharma Grade Synthetic Camphor Market - Topical Drug Delivery Market - Lidocaine Market - Dermatology and Eye Care Services Market - Metabolism Assays Market - Dental Implantology Drill Bit Market - Dental Implantology Drill Bit Market - Tetrabenazine Market - Follow Us: About Us: Credence Research is a viable intelligence and market research platform that provides quantitative B2B research to more than 2000 clients worldwide and is built on the Give principle. The company is a market research and consulting firm serving governments, non-legislative associations, non-profit organizations, and various organizations worldwide. We help our clients improve their execution in a lasting way and understand their most imperative objectives. Contact Us Mitul DeanTower C-1105 , S 25, Akash Tower,Vishal Nahar, Pimple Nilakh, Haveli,Pune – 411027, Indiasales@ Logo - View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Credence Research Inc. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Epoch Times
an hour ago
- Epoch Times
Healing Shingles Naturally: How East Meets West in Fighting Viral Pain and Brain Risk
Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a viral infection that causes a painful, blistering rash and often affects older adults or those with weakened immune systems. But since the COVID-19 pandemic, shingles has been appearing in unexpected age groups—raising new concerns about immunity, stress, and long-term health risks. Without timely treatment, this condition can lead to serious complications, including persistent nerve pain and even cognitive decline. In an episode of the 'Health 1+1' program, Jonathan Liu, a Canadian professor of Traditional Chinese Medicine, discussed both Western and TCM approaches to treating the infection, along with immune-boosting medicinal recipes that may help reduce the risk of shingles. The Importance of Early Treatment The primary treatment for shingles involves antiviral medications such as famciclovir or valacyclovir, which are typically taken orally. In more severe cases, intravenous acyclovir may be used, particularly in hospitalized or immunocompromised patients. Liu emphasized that early intervention is crucial. Ideally, antiviral therapy should begin before blisters appear. The medication works by suppressing viral replication rather than repairing tissue damage; therefore, starting treatment more than three days after the onset of blisters may significantly reduce their effectiveness.
Yahoo
an hour ago
- Yahoo
Black Kids Are 5 Times More Likely to Get Severe COVID. Now Vaccines Are Being Cut.
The Trump administration has declared an end to COVID-19 vaccine recommendations for children and pregnant people, and health experts have a warning: This is a threat to Black communities. U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who oversees the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, announced the decision on May 27 and said vaccine guidance would now focus solely on adults over 65 and those with high-risk conditions, effective immediately. By June 3, Dr. Lakshmi Panagiotakopoulos stepped down from her role helping lead the agency's COVID-19 vaccine advisory group, saying she could no longer support decisions that put pregnant people and children at risk. Before the changes took effect, COVID-19 vaccines were recommended for anyone 6 months and older. Kennedy did not offer a scientific rationale for the new recommendations. For Black Americans, the policy shifts are more than bureaucratic changes, according to Oni Blackstock, a physician and founder of Health Justice, a racial and health equity consulting practice. 'These new guidelines don't exist in a vacuum,' she said. 'Limiting booster eligibility risks further compromising the already fragile health status of many Black Americans.' Black Americans are 1.5 times more likely to contract COVID-19 and four times more likely to be hospitalized, according to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. Research from the Center for Primary Care at Harvard Medical School found that Black children are more than five times as likely to die from the virus. An estimated 165,000 to 220,000 Black Americans have died from COVID-19, according to data compiled by the APM Research Lab. According to a 2023 report from the U.S. Census Bureau, nearly 32% of Black Americans who contracted COVID-19 also experienced long COVID symptoms. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration cited a lack of evidence that annual boosters are needed by healthy, low-risk adults. However, Blackstock, a primary care and HIV physician, said the policy change marks a significant departure from past years when vaccines were broadly recommended and federally funded. 'This contradicts recent CDC data showing that the 2024–2025 boosters benefit people 18 years and older, especially early after vaccination,' she added. Blackstock noted that many Black Americans already struggle with health care access due to systemic barriers like a lack of insurance and residential segregation. 'When these combine with more restrictive vaccine guidelines,' she said, 'it becomes even harder for Black Americans to get boosters and worsens existing health disparities.' These barriers also deepen historic mistrust in health care, said Jerry Abraham, a family and community medicine physician. Abraham, who is director of the CDU-KEDREN Mobile Street Medicine program in Los Angeles, said the history of medical racism and continued treatment disparities fuel skepticism toward public health. Even as boosters offer real benefits, he said, many remain hesitant or disconnected from resources that ensure protection. 'If children and pregnant women are no longer recommended for vaccination, will grandma still go to CVS and get it herself?' he said. Abraham added that in an era where health care professionals can no longer trust the updated guidelines from federal agencies, it's deeply concerning and a reminder that Black communities must once again rely on themselves. For answers about what comes next, read on. Aisha Harris, a family medicine physician in Flint, Michigan, told Capital B that limiting access to COVID-19 vaccines for healthy adults exposes high-risk groups like seniors and those who are immunocompromised. 'Reduced protection in healthy people increases their risk of being infected by COVID and of being a carrier,' said Harris, who owns the direct primary care clinic Harris Family Medicine. 'When more people are contagious, with or without symptoms, they have a higher chance of infecting others around them, including in their household or those they are taking care of as caregivers.' She warned this undermines community immunity. Without widespread coverage, even eligible groups face elevated risks. FDA officials say the new approach mirrors those taken by Australia and several European nations that limit vaccines to older or high-risk adults. But some critics argue the shift ignores U.S. disparities and bypasses standard CDC procedures. You can pay out of pocket, but it could cost up to $200. If the CDC doesn't recommend vaccines, Abraham said health plans are much less likely to cover them, since insurers typically follow CDC guidance. Yes, COVID-19 vaccines have already undergone extensive clinical trials before being authorized for public use. The FDA says it will require longer clinical trials before approving updated shots for healthy kids and adults, with studies lasting at least six months, likely delaying fall approvals. The CDC's vaccine advisory committee is expected to vote on fall vaccine recommendations in late June, but it's unclear how much influence it will have over the newly announced changes. High-risk conditions for COVID-19 vaccine eligibility generally include chronic kidney disease, chronic lung diseases, asthma, diabetes, immunocompromised states (from cancer treatment, organ transplant, HIV, etc.), heart conditions, Alzheimer's disease, obesity, sickle cell disease, smoking, and stroke or cerebrovascular disease. Yes. Studies show COVID-19 vaccination, including boosters, reduces the risk of severe illness and may lower the chances of developing long COVID symptoms after infection. The post Black Kids Are 5 Times More Likely to Get Severe COVID. Now Vaccines Are Being Cut. appeared first on Capital B News.
