FDA panel endorses mRNA flu vaccine
A Food and Drug Administration advisory panel voted to recommend approval of a new mRNA-based influenza vaccine, despite vocal opposition to mRNA technology from HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. The vaccine — which uses the same platform as successful COVID-19 shots — showed strong efficacy in clinical trials against multiple influenza strains. If approved, it would be the first mRNA flu shot available in the United States. Kennedy has not commented directly on the panel's recommendation, but his previous statements criticizing mRNA vaccines have raised questions about whether the administration will accept the FDA's guidance.
Child food assistance cuts spark outrage
More than 770,000 children have been removed from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program following changes to eligibility rules implemented by the Trump administration, according to MedPage Today. Arizona recorded the nation's largest percentage decline in child SNAP participation. The cuts have drawn sharp criticism from pediatricians and anti-hunger advocates who warn that food insecurity will worsen health outcomes for vulnerable children. The administration defended the changes as necessary to curb fraud and focus benefits on those most in need.
Shingles vaccine linked to lower dementia risk
A large-scale study found that the shingles vaccine is associated with a lower risk of developing dementia in older adults, adding to a growing body of evidence that certain vaccines may have neurological benefits. The study, published in a peer-reviewed journal, found that vaccinated individuals had a measurably lower incidence of dementia over a multi-year follow-up period. Separately, a clinical trial found that Nordic walking reduces depression symptoms in as little as five weeks, offering a simple, low-cost intervention for mental health.