Latest Health News
CDC Limits Some Childhood Vaccines, Urges Shared Decision-Making
The CDC updated recommendations, limiting vaccines for hepatitis A, B, meningococcal disease, rotavirus, influenza, and RSV to high-risk groups or after provider consultation, without expert input. This drew criticism from experts and Sen. Bill Cassidy. The change supports a 'consensus vaccines' schedule for core diseases like measles and polio.
Flu Season 2026: Winter of Subclade K Brings Record Activity
A new flu strain, subclade K, drives high activity in all but four US states, with doctor visits for respiratory illness at highest since 1997-98. Australia’s 2025 season extended unusually, Hong Kong hit early, and New York reports record hospitalizations. CDC data confirms widespread misery from this variant.
Global Trachoma Interventions Drop Below 100 Million for First Time
WHO reports the population needing trachoma interventions fell below 100 million, a 94% drop since 2002, due to SAFE strategy implementation. Egypt and Fiji recently validated as trachoma-free, totaling 27 countries. WHO aims for global elimination by 2030 with partner support.
Study Identifies Recurring Symptom Clusters Defining Long COVID
A systemic review in eClinicalMedicine outlines Long COVID as overlapping symptom patterns: neurologic, respiratory, olfactory/gustatory, cardiopulmonary, and fatigue. This challenges viewing it as a single condition. The findings aid better understanding and management.
In Utero COVID Exposure Linked to Brain Changes and Developmental Issues
Research shows prenatal SARS-CoV-2 exposure in unvaccinated mothers associates with brain changes, developmental delays, anxiety, and depression in children. No vaccination occurred in affected cases. This highlights risks of in utero infection.
YD Bio Announces 2026 Milestones for Ophthalmology and Cancer Programs
YD Bio completed key preclinical work; plans IND submissions to FDA in 2026 for LSC Exosome therapies targeting Dry Eye Disease and Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Efficacy/toxicity studies for AMD also slated. Cancer detection via DNA methylation advances too.
Clarivate Report Highlights 11 Breakthrough Therapies for 2026
Clarivate’s 'Drugs to Watch 2026' identifies 11 therapies potentially exceeding $1B sales, transforming metabolic disease, oncology, immunology, rare diseases. AI accelerates development; many in late-stage trials with novel mechanisms.
Johnson & Johnson’s Nipocalimab Shows Promise in Phase 2 SLE Study
Nipocalimab, an investigational FcRn blocker, met primary and key endpoints in JASMINE Phase 2 trial for SLE, including steroid-sparing potential. Plans for Phase 3 initiation follow. Targets autoantibody-driven SLE affecting millions globally.
CRISPR Gene Editing Poised for Platform Trials in 2026
2026 brings first clinical trials treating CRISPR as platform therapy for diseases like urea cycle disorders, scaling beyond individualized treatments. Builds on 2023-2025 approvals for sickle cell and beta thalassemia. Accessibility challenged by high costs over $2M per patient.
FDA Breakthrough Designation for Alixorexton in Narcolepsy Type 1
FDA grants Breakthrough Therapy Designation to alixorexton, signaling potential significant advancement in treating narcolepsy type 1. This fast-tracks development and review. Promises improved options for this debilitating sleep disorder.
New CRISPR Technique Activates Genes Without DNA Cutting
Scientists developed CRISPR method removing chemical tags to turn genes on without cutting DNA, confirming tags silence genes. This settles debate and opens non-destructive editing paths. Reported January 5, 2026.
First Minimally Invasive Coronary Artery Bypass Achieved
NIH researchers performed the first minimally invasive coronary artery bypass for high-risk patients. This advances cardiac surgery safety and recovery. Announced January 6, 2026.