National Updates
CDC Approval Ratings Plunge to New Low
A recent Gallup poll shows 42% of Americans now rate the CDC as “poor” under HHS Secretary Kennedy, reflecting steep loss of public trust across party lines.
Axios
CDC Withdraws Broad COVID-19 Vaccine Recommendation
On October 6, the CDC officially ceased broad endorsements of COVID vaccines, shifting to a shared decision-making model aligned with Kennedy’s advisory panel.
Reuters
Texas Updates
Veterinarians Caution Pet Owners Amid Screwworm Threat
Texas veterinarians are urging pet owners to inspect their animals’ wounds carefully as New World screwworm spreads north from Mexico. Traps, sterile fly releases, and Swormlure are being deployed to intercept infestation.
Midland Reporter-Telegram
Governor Declares Fentanyl Poisoning Awareness Month
Governor Abbott proclaimed October 2025 as Fentanyl Poisoning Awareness Month, calling for education, prevention, and enhanced public awareness across Texas.
Texas.gov
Global Health Alerts
U.S. Expands “Global Gag Rule” to Broaden Aid Restrictions
The Trump administration is extending the Mexico City policy (global gag rule) to condition U.S. global health aid on recipients renouncing DEI (diversity, equity, inclusion) programs—potentially impacting HIV, maternal health, and vaccination efforts.
The Guardian
Planetary Health Diet Study Highlights Global Lifespan Gains
A new EAT-Lancet Commission study estimates wide adoption of the “planetary health diet” could prevent up to 15 million premature deaths annually and cut environmental impact, reinforcing the link between nutrition, health, and ecological sustainability.
Food & Wine
Clinical Tips for Providers
Be ready to address patient concerns about declining CDC credibility—emphasize transparent, evidence-based practices.
Discuss the new shared decision model for COVID vaccination with eligible patients, especially older adults or high-risk individuals.
Advise pet owners in rural and border areas to regularly inspect wounds and seek veterinary care early to prevent screwworm.
Use the fentanyl awareness proclamation to support overdose prevention education and naloxone outreach.
In patient education, reference the planetary health diet study to encourage more plant-forward, sustainable dietary choices.
