Latest Health News
US States and New York City Join WHO's Global Outbreak Alert Network
California, Illinois, New York state, and New York City have joined the WHO's GOARN despite the US withdrawal from WHO in January 2026, to maintain direct access to global disease outbreak information. This network, with over 310 partners, has managed 175 emergencies since 2000, highlighting the borderless nature of diseases post-COVID.
Experts emphasize it helps states protect citizens independently of federal policy.
FDA Approves New EDOF IOL with Limited Dysphotopsias
The FDA has approved a new extended depth of focus intraocular lens featuring reduced dysphotopsias for better patient outcomes. This approval advances cataract surgery options by minimizing visual disturbances.
Positive Phase 2a Results for VIS-101 in Wet AMD
NovaBridge Biosciences reported topline results from Phase 2a trial of VIS-101, a dual VEGF-A/ANG-2 inhibitor for wet AMD, showing rapid, robust responses. About two-thirds of patients were retreatment-free at 4 months, half at 6 months, supporting Phase 2b advancement.
FDA Grants Breakthrough Designation to ReVision's Brain Implant for Vision Restoration
ReVision Implant's Occular system, a microelectrode brain implant with camera tech, received FDA Breakthrough Device Designation for vision-impaired individuals. Preclinical studies show visual cortex activation and scalability to primates.
FDA Clears Phase 1/2 Trial for Cell Therapy in Familial Drusen
Sanaregen's SVT-001 cell therapy for familial drusen macular degeneration gained FDA approval for Phase 1/2 trials, potentially aiding AMD patients. The therapy aims to restore retinal function and vision.
Global Virus Network Opens Headquarters at USF
The Global Virus Network inaugurated its international HQ at University of South Florida on March 14, 2026, to boost pandemic preparedness and virology research. It focuses on future threats like mpox, training virologists, and creating hospital playbooks post-COVID lessons.
Breakthrough Kidney Disease Therapies Highlighted for National Kidney Month
Kerendia, SGLT2 inhibitors like Farxiga and Jardiance, and Ozempic now slow CKD progression in diabetes patients, reducing kidney failure risks. Emerging IL-6 inhibitor ziltivekimab in Phase III targets inflammation in CKD.
Combination therapies are under exploration for enhanced protection.
Doctor Warns 'Disease X' Could Trigger Next Global Pandemic
Scientists caution that Disease X, an unknown pathogen, poses a risk for the next pandemic, urging global preparedness. Updated warning issued March 14, 2026.
YolTech Therapeutics Gets FDA Clearance for Phase 2/3 Gene-Editing Therapy in AATD
FDA approved IND for YOLT-202, an in vivo base-editing therapy for Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency, enabling Phase 2/3 expansion study. Announced March 13, 2026.
Africa CDC Hosts Dialogue on Reformed Global Health Ecosystem
Leaders from Africa, Europe convened February 14, 2026, at Africa CDC for multilateral cooperation amid declining financing, climate impacts, and disease burdens. Emphasizes country-led resilient systems, UHC, and empowered regional institutions like Africa CDC.
Advances in Antiretroviral Therapy Post-CROI 2026
IAS-USA course highlights CROI findings on new ART agents, 2-drug HIV therapy, drug resistance management, and advanced HIV disease care including TB. Focuses on regimen selection and hepatitis B integration.
Health Ministry Warns of Global Sleep Crisis on World Sleep Day
World Sleep Day 2026 stresses quality sleep's role in health akin to nutrition and exercise, amid warnings of a global sleep crisis. Supports physical and emotional well-being.