National Updates
Impending Federal Shutdown Threatens Health Agencies
With Congress failing to pass a funding deal, a U.S. government shutdown is imminent. 41% of the HHS workforce could be furloughed, including 64% of CDC employees, severely impacting disease surveillance, public health communications, and prevention programs.
Reuters
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Millions of Seniors Could Lose Telehealth Access
Certain telehealth and hospital-at-home services under Medicare require annual reauthorization by Congress. If funding lapses, more than 6.7 million seniors may lose these critical care options, especially those with mobility or chronic illness challenges.
The Washington Post
Trump Pushes Pharma for Voluntary Drug Price Cuts
President Trump urged 17 major drugmakers to align U.S. consumer pricing with what they charge in wealthy foreign markets. The deadline has passed; companies like Eli Lilly and BMS are pledging adjustments.
Politico
Texas Updates
West Nile Virus Confirmed in Midland County
Texas reports two West Nile cases in Midland County. Symptoms range from mild (fever, headache) to severe neurological disease. Mosquito control and protective measures (repellents, eliminating standing water) are strongly advised.
Midland Reporter-Telegram
Screwworm Surveillance Heightened Along Texas Border
A screwworm case in Sabinas Hidalgo, Mexico (~70 miles from Texas), has prompted U.S. and Texas authorities to intensify border livestock inspections and surveillance. No Texas cases yet, but vigilance is critical.
Reuters
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The Guardian
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Global Health Alerts
Rising Avian Influenza Risk Threatens U.S. Herds and Humans
The U.S. DHS Science & Technology office reports continued spread of H5N1 in wild and domestic birds. Texas is among states with high livestock herds affected. Case counts in birds and spillover to mammals emphasize the risk of cross-species transmission.
Global Biodefense
PAHO Honors COVID-19 Health Worker Legacy
The Pan American Health Organization unveiled a sculpture honoring health workers across the Americas for resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic, reminding us of lessons and commitments in public health.
Pan American Health Organization
Clinical Tips for Providers
Prepare for disruptions in public health functions—adjust surveillance, outreach, and communication plans.
For seniors depending on telehealth, counsel bridging strategies (local clinics, hybrid care) in case services lapse.
Monitor drug Rx prices and counsel patients if pricing changes affect their access or formulary options.
In areas with West Nile activity: emphasize mosquito precautions, especially for older or immunocompromised patients.
In border regions or veterinary practice: maintain screwworm vigilance, inspect wounds in animals and humans with unusual lesions.
In regions at high bird-flu exposure: monitor for influenza-like illness in livestock and humans, report suspicious clusters.
Use the PAHO tribute to reinforce public trust: highlight continued support for health workers and the importance of resilient health systems.
