From Passion Health Primary Care – Clinically Accurate & Community-Focused
Today’s update covers the FDA’s delay on Blenrep for multiple myeloma, early measles detection in Austin wastewater, and global surveillance trends. These developments underscore the importance of vaccination, chronic disease management, and infection prevention—all key components of the care we provide at Passion Health.
🇺🇸 National Updates
✅ FDA Extends U.S. Review of GSK’s Blenrep to October 2025
FDA delayed its approval decision on the multiple myeloma drug Blenrep until October 23, 2025. This follows an advisory panel’s caution over eye-related side effects and dosage concerns despite approvals in other countries.
🏥 Texas Updates
✅ Measles Virus Found in Austin Wastewater
Travis County wastewater surveillance from early July tested positive for measles virus—a possible early warning despite no new confirmed cases since May, after the measles outbreak in April 2025 in Texas. Officials highly recommend MMR vaccination, especially before the school season.
🌍 Global Health Alerts
✅ Wastewater Tracking Used to Monitor Measles Internationally
Sewage-based surveillance programs are now detecting measles in multiple states and globally, providing early detection before clinical outbreaks emerge.
💡 Clinical Tips for Providers
- Discuss GSK’s Blenrep delay and counsel myeloma patients on treatment implications.
- Actively verify MMR status in patients from Austin/Travis County and those returning for school.
- Consider including wastewater surveillance questions when assessing the risk of infectious diseases in travelers or students.
