National & Domestic Updates
Respiratory Virus Activity Very Low Nationwide
According to the CDC, acute respiratory illness (ARI) is at very low levels across the U.S. as of mid-September. Influenza A activity remains low; RSV is very low; COVID-19 hospitalizations are stable. CDCon vaccine policy. Reuters
“XFG / Stratus” COVID-19 Variant Spiking in Texas
Wastewater data shows “very high” COVID-19 viral activity in Texas. The XFG/Stratus variant is now dominant in many metro areas. Providers are urged to encourage vaccination in seniors and high-risk patients. San Antonio Express-News
Global Health Alerts
WHO Highlights Global Mental Health Gaps
New WHO reports (Mental Health Atlas 2024 & World Mental Health Today) estimate over 1 billion people live with mental health conditions globally, yet many receive inadequate care due to shortages in funding, workforce, and services. World Health Organization
Ebola Outbreak in Kasai Province (DRC) Steadily Spreading
The Kasai Province outbreak of Zaire ebolavirus in the Democratic Republic of the Congo continues to grow: as of mid-September, approximately 81 confirmed cases and 28 deaths, including among healthcare workers. Vaccination and containment efforts are being scaled up. Wikipedia
Clinical Tips for Providers
- Emphasize vaccination for COVID-19 to patients over 65 and those with comorbidities; monitor wastewater data for rising community spread.
- Assess patients presenting with fever, fatigue, or rash for possible Ebola exposure if travel or contact history warrants.
- Integrate screening for mental health—especially depression, anxiety—and connect patients to local resources.
- With ARI levels low, ensure preventive services (vaccines, wellness checks) are kept up to avoid seasonal surges.
