Immunization News Digest Archive

Archive of content recently published in Immunization News Digest 

March 14, 2025 | March 7, 2025 | February 28, 2025 | February 21, 2025 | February 14, 2025 | February 7, 2025

AAP, physician groups urge NIH to restore funding for vaccine uptake studies 

• The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and other medical organizations are calling on the NIH to reinstate funding for research on vaccine hesitancy and uptake, following the cancellation of several key grants by the institute. 

• This call for funding restoration comes at a time when a major measles outbreak and severe flu season are impacting public health, with experts emphasizing the need for research to fight misinformation and encourage vaccination. 

Advocacy Conference brings nearly 400 pediatricians to Capitol Hill with message to keep Medicaid, CHIP strong 

• Nearly 400 pediatricians gathered at the 2025 AAP Advocacy Conference to urge lawmakers to reject funding cuts to Medicaid and CHIP, stressing the critical importance of these programs for child health. 

• The conference featured workshops on effective advocacy and child health issues, culminating in over 250 meetings with congressional offices, where pediatricians shared personal stories and emphasized the need to protect Medicaid and CHIP funding. 

• The timing of the conference was pivotal, as it coincided with key budget discussions in Congress, making it a crucial moment for pediatricians to advocate for policies that support the health and well-being of children across the U.S. 

AAP president: Federal study on vaccines, autism would be a disservice to patients, families 

• AAP President Dr. Susan Kressly criticized the reexamination of the debunked theory linking vaccines to autism, arguing that it wastes valuable research funding that could be better spent on supporting individuals with autism and addressing broader child health priorities. 

• Despite multiple large studies disproving the connection, the CDC, under new leadership, plans to revisit the issue, with officials emphasizing the need for thorough research, though experts like Dr. Kressly stress that it does not contribute to improving vaccine safety knowledge. 

Measles lands in more states: Oklahoma, Vermont are latest to report cases 

• Measles cases are continuing to spread across the U.S., with Oklahoma and Vermont reporting new cases, bringing the total to 15 states so far in 2025. The outbreak is mainly tied to ongoing outbreaks in Texas and New Mexico, with additional international travel-related cases emerging. 

• The CDC is urging travelers to ensure they are vaccinated as the outbreak grows, especially as the spring and summer travel seasons approach. Measles remains highly contagious, and public health officials stress the importance of vaccinations to prevent further spread. 

NIH cuts research grants on vaccine hesitancy—with mRNA vaccine studies the next target 

• The NIH has cut at least 33 research grants focused on vaccine hesitancy and strategies to increase vaccine uptake, stating that such studies no longer align with the agency's priorities.

• These cuts come amid rising vaccine-preventable diseases like measles and follow new policies under Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who has expressed skepticism about vaccines. 

March 7, 2025

Unvaccinated New Mexico resident tests positive for measles after death amid ongoing outbreak 

• An unvaccinated individual in Lea County, New Mexico, tested positive for measles after dying, marking the 10th confirmed case in the county. This could be the second death linked to the ongoing measles outbreak in the region. 

• The outbreak has spread to multiple counties in Texas, with over 150 cases reported. Health officials emphasize that the MMR vaccine is the most effective way to prevent measles and its complications, urging parents to vaccinate their children to protect against the disease. 

AAP urges HHS leadership to use pediatrician expertise to address child health issues 

• Dr. Susan Kressly, President of the AAP, encourages the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to utilize the knowledge and experience of pediatricians, including AAP members, in tackling important child health challenges like childhood obesity, mental health, and the prevention of chronic diseases. 

• The AAP advocates for the safeguarding of Medicaid, the Children’s Health Insurance Program, and the Vaccines for Children initiative, emphasizing the need for continued scientific integrity and collaboration with federal leaders to effectively address key issues affecting children's health. 

Pediatricians bring voice as ‘trusted messengers’ to state, national elected offices 

• Pediatricians, like Lisa A. Reynolds and Kim Schrier, have entered elected offices to advocate for children’s health, emphasizing the importance of public health policies, including addressing vaccine misinformation and ensuring access to necessary vaccines. 

• These pediatricians leverage their roles as "trusted messengers" in politics to advocate for sound public health policies, collaborate on bipartisan solutions, and protect vaccine access, especially in the face of growing vaccine misinformation and public health challenges. 

CDC says it is on the ground in Texas to aid in measles outbreak response 

• The CDC has sent its Epidemic Intelligence Service (EIS) team to Texas to assist with a measles outbreak that has resulted in 159 cases, 22 hospitalizations, and one death, marking the first U.S. measles death in a decade. 
• The outbreak, primarily within a Mennonite community in Gaines County with lower vaccination rates, has prompted federal assistance, including the distribution of vaccines and vitamin A, though medical experts emphasize that vaccination remains the most effective prevention method. 

Survey shows most people unaware of extent of HPV risk in men 

• A survey by The Ohio State University revealed that many people are unaware of the significant cancer risks HPV poses to men, with 45% not knowing that HPV can cause cancers other than cervical cancer. This lack of awareness is concerning as men are more likely to be infected and can unknowingly spread the virus. 

• A separate study highlighted the rising rates of cervical cancer in rural U.S. counties, with increased incidence and higher mortality, especially among white women. Researchers suggest this is due to lower HPV vaccination rates and screening access in rural areas, underscoring the need for improved preventive care. 

Nirsevimab estimated at 64% to 74% effective against poor RSV outcomes in infants 

• The monoclonal antibody nirsevimab (Beyfortus) was found to be 64% to 74% effective in preventing severe outcomes of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in infants, including hospitalizations, pediatric ICU admissions, and the need for mechanical ventilation or supplemental oxygen. 

• Nirsevimab provided consistent protection over time, with effectiveness remaining steady throughout the study period, including beyond its 75-day half-life, even when RSV circulation was higher. This data could guide future RSV vaccination strategies.

February 28, 2025

Cancellation of federal flu vaccine meeting 

• The cancellation of the FDA's March 13, 2025 meeting to discuss flu vaccine strains for the 2025-26 season is causing concern, particularly given the current severe flu season and the time needed to produce vaccines. 
• The American Academy of Pediatrics urges the meeting to be rescheduled promptly to ensure timely decisions on flu vaccines, which are critical in preventing further strain on healthcare systems and reducing flu-related deaths. 

ACIP postponement, shelving of CDC vaccine campaigns stir fears 

• The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) postponed the upcoming Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) meeting, raising concerns among public health experts about potential changes to the committee under new HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a known vaccine critic. 
• The CDC has stopped its flu vaccination campaign and plans to shift its vaccine messaging to focus on "informed consent," a move that could hinder public understanding of vaccines, according to experts, while also terminating committees focused on Long COVID and health equity. 

AAP leaders combating misinformation amid measles outbreak, stress importance of vaccination 

• The measles outbreak in Texas has led to the death of an unvaccinated child, with 124 confirmed cases so far, primarily affecting unvaccinated children. Health officials are emphasizing the importance of the MMR vaccine to prevent further spread. 
• Misinformation, such as the false claim that vitamin A can prevent measles or that the MMR vaccine caused the outbreak, is being actively debunked by health experts, who stress that the MMR vaccine is the only effective prevention. 

HPV Awareness Day March 4, 2025 

• HPV Awareness Day aims to educate the public about the prevention of HPV, a virus that can lead to various cancers. It encourages vaccination and screening, and also recognizes survivors of HPV-related cancers, aiming to reduce the spread of the virus globally and improve public health. 
• The day highlights the importance of primary prevention (vaccination) and secondary prevention (screening), like Pap tests, to reduce the risk of HPV-related cancers. It also encourages people to share information and support others in taking steps toward prevention, ultimately fostering better health practices worldwide. 

Fears of US public health crises grow amid falling vaccination rates 

• Since the COVID-19 pandemic, vaccination rates have been falling. Measles shots, for example, went from 95% coverage in 2019 to less than 93% in 2023, with some places like Idaho seeing even bigger drops. Experts are worried this could bring back diseases we thought were mostly gone. 
• More parents are opting out of vaccines, often due to religious or personal reasons, and there’s a lot of distrust in health authorities. This, along with the spread of misinformation, is causing outbreaks of diseases like measles and whooping cough that were once under control. 
• Vaccine policies have become a major point of division in U.S. politics, with some states pushing for stricter mandates and others expanding exemptions. Experts are warning that this could lead to a serious public health crisis if things don’t change. 

February 21, 2025

FDA Approves Meningococcal Combination Vaccine For People Aged 10 Through 25 Years 

• The FDA has approved GSK's combined meningococcal vaccine, Penmenvy, for individuals aged 10-25. It combines components of two previous vaccines, Bexsero and Menveo, to protect against five strains of the bacteria that cause meningococcal disease. 

• Clinical trials involving around 3,650 participants showed that Penmenvy was as effective and well-tolerated as the individual vaccines, potentially simplifying vaccination and reducing long-term complications associated with meningococcal infections. 

Measles cases are rising in US as Texas outbreak grows 

• A measles outbreak in western Texas has grown to 48 confirmed cases, primarily affecting unvaccinated individuals. This marks the largest outbreak in the state in over 30 years. The outbreak has raised concerns that it could spread to other areas, especially due to increasing vaccine exemptions in the region. 

• Public health experts are worried about the potential for a larger outbreak, as measles is highly contagious. They also point to vaccine hesitancy and misinformation as major contributors to the rise in cases, emphasizing the effectiveness of the MMR vaccine in preventing the disease. 

An intense flu season is filling hospitals with severely ill patients 

• This flu season has been unusually severe in the U.S., with flu hospitalization rates surpassing those seen during the Covid-19 pandemic. Along with high hospitalization rates, doctors have reported an increase in severe complications, including brain swelling (ANE) in children and pneumonia caused by MRSA in adults. 

• There’s still time to protect yourself from the flu by getting vaccinated, as it boosts immunity in about a week. Experts recommend vaccination alongside other preventive measures, such as hand washing, mask-wearing, and proper ventilation. Early antiviral treatment can also help reduce the severity of the illness if contracted. 

Respiratory Syncytial Virus Vaccine and Nirsevimab Uptake Among Pregnant People and Their Neonates 

• The study found high uptake of both the RSVpreF vaccine among pregnant individuals (64%) and nirsevimab for neonates (70%) during the 2023-2024 season, leading to over 80% coverage against RSV at the institution. 

• There were no significant safety concerns associated with RSVpreF vaccination, and no link was found between vaccination and increased risk of preterm birth. The combination of prenatal vaccination and infant monoclonal antibody administration proved effective in preventing RSV. 

• The study highlighted that offering both RSVpreF vaccination and nirsevimab to pregnant individuals and neonates provided robust RSV protection, with high acceptance rates. The availability of these interventions at the hospital reduced barriers and ensured broad coverage for the population. 

Influenza Vaccination Provided Protection Across Care Settings in 2023-2024 Season 

• The 2023-2024 flu vaccine was shown to provide protection across various age groups and healthcare settings. It was especially effective against influenza B, with higher protection rates for pediatric hospitalizations and emergency visits (58%) compared to adults (39-47%). 

• The study emphasizes the need to increase flu vaccination rates to reduce the overall impact of influenza, including hospitalizations and severe complications, with the vaccine showing varying effectiveness depending on the strain. 

February 14, 2025

Flu cases rise again, while COVID takes a back seat 

• Viral Interference: Influenza may be limiting the spread of COVID this season, as the circulation of flu could offer some immunity that reduces the chances of other respiratory viruses, like COVID, taking hold. 

• Severe Flu Season: Flu activity started earlier and peaked unexpectedly, with a second wave of cases emerging. Experts are concerned about the possibility of people being co-infected with both seasonal flu and bird flu, which could lead to the creation of a more dangerous virus. 

• Vaccination Reminder: Getting vaccinated against both COVID-19 and the flu remains crucial, as it helps protect against severe illness, reduces the spread of viruses, and can prevent co-infections that could lead to more serious health risks. 

AAP efforts put vaccines front and center in hearings for HHS secretary 

• The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) launched an advocacy campaign to emphasize the importance of childhood vaccinations during the Senate hearings on Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s nomination for Secretary of Health and Human Services, gathering nearly 200 testimonials from pediatricians about the impact of vaccines. 

Hospital admissions for flu in children ages 5-17 up 145% since Jan. 4, AAP analysis shows 

• Pediatric flu hospital admissions have surged by 145% for children ages 5-17 between Jan. 4 and Feb. 1, with flu-related emergency department visits also at their highest level since 2009-2010, according to an AAP analysis of federal data. 

• The AAP and CDC emphasize the importance of flu vaccination, urging families to get vaccinated as the flu season remains severe, with 57 pediatric deaths reported as of Feb. 1. 

Measles cases rising in the US 

• Measles cases are rising in the U.S., with outbreaks reported in Texas, Georgia, New York City, Rhode Island, and Alaska, primarily affecting unvaccinated individuals. The outbreak in western Texas has grown to at least 24 cases, and vaccine exemptions have significantly increased in the area. 

• Health officials are urging vaccination, as measles is highly contagious, with the CDC recommending two doses of the MMR vaccine for children. 

US Confirms Most Whooping Cough Fatalities Since 2017 

• In 2024, the U.S. reported at least 12 deaths from whooping cough, the highest number since 2017, with a recent increase in cases, especially in children under 5. Florida currently has the highest number of infections. 

• Experts stress the importance of staying up to date on whooping cough vaccinations, especially for those around infants, as immunity can decrease over time. Whooping cough can cause serious complications, particularly in young children and unvaccinated individuals. 

Yellow Fever Outbreak Alert Issued for the Americas 

• PAHO/WHO urges countries with yellow fever risk areas to ensure travelers are well-informed about prevention measures and the importance of vaccination when visiting outbreak regions. 
• Starting in February 2025, certified travel clinics and pharmacies in the U.S. will provide yellow fever vaccines to international travelers visiting affected countries. 

February 7, 2025

10 new pediatric flu deaths reported for total of 57 in 2024-’25 season

• As of Jan. 25, 44.5% of U.S. children have been vaccinated for the flu, down from 49.1% at the same time last year.

U.S. pays $590 million to Moderna to speed up development of bird flu vaccine 

• The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services is awarding $590 million to Moderna to accelerate the development of influenza vaccines, including those targeting bird flu (H5N1). 

• Moderna stated that the additional funding will support late-stage development, vaccine licensure, and expansion of clinical studies for various subtypes of pandemic influenza to address future public health threats. 

Childhood vaccination rates, a health bright spot in struggling states, are slipping 

• Rising vaccine exemptions, particularly for nonmedical reasons, are causing concern among public health experts as states like Tennessee, Florida, and Georgia report declines in vaccination rates, potentially leading to a resurgence of preventable diseases like measles. 

Meta-analysis estimates 14% global COVID-flu coinfection rate 

• A meta-analysis of 38 studies found that the global prevalence of COVID-flu coinfection is 14%, with Asia and Europe having the highest rates, and significant variations among studies. Coinfections can lead to worsened respiratory symptoms and increase the risk of severe complications. 

• The study highlighted high heterogeneity across research, suggesting that factors like study methodology, geographic location, and diagnostic criteria may impact coinfection rates. The researchers emphasized that high vaccination coverage for both COVID-19 and influenza could reduce the risk of co-infection. 

Research Suggests Link Between COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy and Increasing Uncertainty in Routine Vaccines for Young Children 

• A study found that young children of parents who declined the COVID-19 vaccine were about 25% less likely to receive the MMR vaccine, with pandemic-related hesitancy further exacerbating historic political and socioeconomic disparities in vaccine uptake. 

• Researchers noted that children of parents who received the COVID-19 vaccine had higher MMR vaccination rates, and regions like the Northeast and Midwest reported higher vaccination rates. 

7 in 10 US adults favor school vaccination mandates, but support for opt-outs rising 

• A recent survey shows that 7 in 10 U.S. adults support mandatory vaccinations for schoolchildren to prevent infectious diseases like measles, although support for prohibiting unvaccinated students from attending schools has decreased since 2019. Additionally, there is growing support for parental opt-outs, especially for medical exemptions.