Brought to you by Passion Health Primary Care – Today’s update delivers vital developments across the U.S., Texas, and the global health landscape. From delayed FDA reviews and rising flood fatalities in Texas to the detection of measles RNA in Austin’s wastewater and emerging treatments for autoimmune disorders -these updates are regionally relevant, clinically focused, and carefully curated for both patients and providers.
🇺🇸 National Updates
✅ FDA Extends Review of Multi-Myeloma Drug Blenrep
The FDA has pushed its decision to October 23 on GSK’s Blenrep, following safety concerns over eye-related side effects. It’s already approved in the UK, Canada, and Japan for relapsed myeloma.
✅ Flood Risk Grows Nationwide: Flash Flood Warnings Skyrocket
Cities from Pittsburgh to the Gulf Coast are seeing record flash flood warnings this summer—climate-driven precipitation extremes are becoming more frequent.
🏥 Texas Updates
✅ Texas Flood Death Toll Climbs to 137; Lawmakers Prompt Action
A special session convened to investigate Hill Country floods after at least 137 fatalities. Experts cite delayed alerts and weather service underfunding.
✅ Austin Wastewater Tests Detect Measles Virus
Measles RNA found in Travis County sewage, prompting MMR vaccination reminders from public health officials.
🌍 Global Health Alerts
✅ GSK’s New Autoimmune Treatment (Gefurulimab) Shows Promise
Late-stage trials found significant improvement in generalized myasthenia gravis symptoms—watch for next steps in regulatory review.
✅ FDA Seeks Input to Define Ultra-Processed Foods
A draft request for information will appear in the federal register on July 24, aiming to standardize definitions that could shape future dietary policy.
💡 Clinical Tips for Providers
• Monitor developments in Blenrep decision and counsel myeloma patients accordingly.
• Emphasize flood and heat safety practices in flood-prone Texas communities.
• Reinforce MMR vaccine outreach, especially in Austin/Travis County.
• Stay abreast of new autoimmune therapies and dietary policy changes that may affect patient guidance.
