National Updates
FDA Distributes National Priority Vouchers
The U.S. FDA announced the recipients of national priority review vouchers, which expedite regulatory review of drugs—aiming to accelerate development of treatments for rare diseases, infectious conditions, and unmet health needs. Reuters
Trump Announces Plans to Lower Price of Ozempic
In a White House event on fertility and drug pricing, President Trump stated that the cost of Novo Nordisk’s weight-loss drug Ozempic will be lowered. Pharma stocks fell on the announcement, reflecting investor concern. Reuters+1
FDA, HHS Reinstates Layoffs After Reversal
The government reversed over half of the 1,300 CDC employees who had been terminated during the shutdown, citing a “coding error.” However, around 600 employees remain affected. The Guardian
Also, HHS recalled staff from key health statistics roles (including NHANES) whose layoff notices had been issued earlier. Axios
Public Health Alliance of Governors Launches
Fifteen U.S. governors formed a bipartisan alliance to coordinate public health policy, data sharing, and preparedness across states—especially in light of reduced federal capacity. Reuters
Texas Updates
Emergency Rules Ban Hemp Sales to Minors
The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) adopted emergency rules effective October 3, 2025, forbidding licensed sellers of consumable hemp products from selling to anyone under age 21. Texas Health Services
Texas Is Part of Global Health & Innovation Mission
Texas continues to be promoted as a hub for MedTech and digital health innovation. International health organizations, especially from the Netherlands, are spotlighting Texas’s ecosystem for collaboration. TFHC
Global Health Alerts
India Cough Syrup Poisoning Crisis
Reports have emerged of a cough syrup poisoning crisis in India, with several child deaths in Madhya Pradesh and surrounding states. The implicated syrups were found to contain high levels of diethylene glycol (DEG), prompting WHO warnings. Wikipedia
Ongoing Ebola Outbreak in DRC’s Kasai Province
The Ebola epidemic in the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s Kasai region continues, with at least 81 confirmed cases and 28 deaths as of the latest data. Wikipedia
Clinical Tips for Providers
Monitor pricing changes and formulary shifts, especially for obesity and metabolic drugs like Ozempic.
Stay informed of priority voucher awards—these could affect access to new drug therapies.
Support staff and messaging as CDC layoffs and reinstatements impact morale and operations.
In Texas, ensure compliance with new rules on hemp product sales to minors.
Remind patients, especially in pediatric and family practice, about the cough syrup safety alert in India—beware of imported or homemade syrups.
For patients with travel or contact ties to central Africa, remain alert to signs of Ebola and follow isolation/referral protocols.
