National Updates
The U.S. is exiting a 43-day federal government shutdown: Donald Trump signed the funding bill on November 12, restoring many federal health‐ and food‐assistance programs. Reuters
Discussions are underway about direct healthcare payments and tariff dividends as part of federal policy shifts, which may affect coverage and affordability landscape. Al Jazeera+1
Texas Updates
A whooping cough (pertussis) outbreak in Texas has surpassed 3,500 cases through October 2025, the highest statewide total in over a decade. The state health agency is issuing alerts and urging vaccinations for children and pregnant women. KSAT+1
The shutdown ending ensures that Texans receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) should see full benefits restored within days. KEYE
A rural hospital in Olney, Texas, built a new facility but removed labor & delivery services due to budget/operational issues, leaving a large region without local obstetric care—highlighting serious rural access gaps. The Texas Tribune
Global Health Alerts
While not a specific new disease alert today, the global health landscape remains shaped by heightened surveillance of vaccine‐preventable outbreaks and public health system pressures due to funding and policy shifts.
Relatedly, global aid and health system readiness remain central as nations face resurgence of infectious disease threats, vaccine gaps, and preventive‐care shortfalls.
Clinical Tips for Providers
- Review immunization status for children and pregnant women, especially for pertussis (whooping cough) in Texas; consider outreach and booster messaging.
- Inform patients about the end of the federal shutdown and restoration of nutrition/assistance programs—be prepared for increased patient access and referrals.
- In rural practice settings, anticipate continued obstetric access issues—identify referral pathways and emergency transport plans for maternal care.
- Stay alert to emerging global public-health vulnerabilities and consider travel or exposure histories when patients present with atypical symptoms.
