CDC ENTEBBE

Culturally tailored telemonitoring improves diabetes trial participation in Hispanic/Latinx communities, highlighting language barriers and need for flexible study designs to address health disparities.

Iasis Molecular Sciences Inc. is developing ionclad antimicrobials, including a silver-based Foley catheter and a copper-based architectural coating, to prevent health care-associated infections. The company has completed manufacturing validation for the Foley catheter and received $1.25 million in phase II funding from the CDC for EPA approval of the architectural coatings. Iasis aims to reduce infections in hospitals and other settings, with potential applications beyond health care.

9.5% of adults 18-49 with chronic conditions are at risk from RSV, rising to 24.3% among 50-64 year-olds. Pfizer's Abrysvo, approved by the FDA, is now the only RSV vaccine indicated for adults 18-49 at increased risk, expanding its existing indications for older adults and pregnant women.

FDA expands Pfizer's RSV vaccine Abrysvo approval to adults aged 18-59 at increased risk, making it the broadest indication for adults. CDC's slow uptake of RSV vaccines and narrow guidance may change with this expansion. GSK also received expanded approval for its RSV shot Arexvy in adults aged 50-59 at increased risk. FDA's decision based on Pfizer's MONeT trial data showing strong immune responses in at-risk adults.

COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy study in Sacramento County free clinics reveals 89% vaccination rate, with factors like trust in healthcare providers, perceived safety and effectiveness influencing decisions. Demographic differences show men vaccinated more than women, and recent immigrants more than long-term residents. Influenza vaccine perceptions also impact COVID-19 vaccination attitudes. Hypothetical scenarios indicate high willingness for high-risk diseases. Trust in healthcare providers as information sources is crucial, while social media is least trusted. Study highlights the importance of community-based care and targeted vaccination efforts.

The FDA approved an additional presentation of Alotech and Teva Pharmaceuticals’ Selarsdi (ustekinumab-aekn), a biosimilar to Stelara (ustekinumab), for intravenous infusion. This approval aligns Selarsdi's label with Stelara's indications, including psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, ulcerative colitis, and Crohn disease. This marks the second biosimilar of Stelara approved by the FDA, following earlier approvals of Wezlana, Pyzchiva, and Otulfi.

PennDOT and PA Turnpike launch a new driver work zone safety program during National Teen Driver Safety Week, featuring a free, 35-minute virtual course in English and Spanish, aiming to improve safety for new drivers and roadway workers.

FDA expanded Pfizer's Abrysvo vaccine approval for RSV prevention in ages 18-59, making it the first for adults under 50. Previously approved for those 60+ and pregnant individuals, RSV annually causes up to 80,000 child and 160,000 elderly hospitalizations in the U.S.

Siemens Healthineers' Atellica IM high-sensitivity troponin I blood test receives FDA clearance for predicting heart attack risk up to one year in advance, aiming to improve patient care and reduce cardiac event risks.

Fish oil omega-3 supplements' effectiveness in heart disease prevention is uncertain, with mixed clinical trial results and potential risks. VITAL trial showed no overall CVD risk reduction but significant benefits for low fish consumers, high-risk individuals, and African Americans. REDUCE-IT trial found icosapent ethyl reduced CVD risk by 25% in high-risk patients. Research continues on optimal omega-3 forms and mechanisms, with caution advised on high-dose supplement use.