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  • The CDC Is Altering Data to Follow Trump’s DEI Order


    Updated at 5:53 p.m. on January 31, 2025

    Last night, scientists began to hear cryptic and foreboding warnings from colleagues: Go to the CDC website, and download your data now. They were all telling one another the same thing: Data on the website were about to disappear, or be altered, to comply with the Trump administration’s ongoing attempt to scrub federal agencies of any mention of gender, DEI, and accessibility. “I was up until 2 a.m.,” Angela Rasmussen, a virologist at the Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization at the University of Saskatchewan who relies on the CDC’s data to track viral outbreaks, told me. She archived whatever she could.

    What they feared quickly came to pass. Already, content from the CDC’s Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System, which includes data from a national survey, has disappeared; so have parts of the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry’s Social Vulnerability Index and the Environmental Justice Index. The CDC’s landing page for HIV data has also vanished. And the agency’s AtlasPlus tool, which contains nearly 20 years of CDC surveillance data on HIV, hepatitis, sexually transmitted infections, and tuberculosis, is down. Several scientists I talked with told me they had heard directly from contacts at the CDC that the agency has directed employees to scrub any mention of “gender” from its site and the data that it shares there, replacing it with “sex.”

    The full scope of the purge isn’t yet clear. One document obtained by The Atlantic indicated that the government was, as of yesterday evening, intending to target and replace, at a minimum, several “suggested keywords”—including “pregnant people, transgender, binary, non-binary, gender, assigned at birth, binary [sic], non-binary [sic], cisgender, queer, gender identity, gender minority, anything with pronouns”—in CDC content. While these terms are often politicized, some represent demographic variables that researchers collect when tracking the ebb and flow of diseases and health conditions across populations. Should they be reworded, or even removed entirely, from data sets to comply with the executive order, researchers and health-care providers might have a much harder time figuring out how diseases affect specific communities—making it more challenging to serve Americans on the whole.

    CDC data’s “explicit purpose” is to guide researchers toward the places and people who most need attention, Patrick Sullivan, an epidemiologist at Emory University and a former CDC Epidemic Intelligence Service officer, told me. As the changes unfold before him, he said, “it’s hard to understand how this benefits health.”

    When I contacted the CDC, a spokesperson redirected my requests for comment to the Department of Health and Human Services. After this story was published, an HHS spokesperson said that “all changes to the HHS website and HHS division websites are in accordance with President Trump’s January 20 Executive Orders” on gender and DEI.

    The government appears to understand that these changes could have scientific implications: The document directing a review of CDC content suggests that some work could be altered without “changing the meaning or scientific integrity of the content,” and that any such changes should be considered “routine.” Changing other content, according to the document, would require review by an expert precisely because any alterations would risk scientific integrity. But the document does not specify how data would be sorted into those categories, or at whose discretion.

    “My fear is that in the short term, entire data sets would be taken down,” then reappear with demographic variables removed or altered to conform with DEI restrictions, Katie Biello, an epidemiologist at Brown, told me. Excising mention of gender and sexual orientation, for instance, from public-health data sets could require stripping entire columns of data out. If the government chooses to define sex as binary, transgender people and nonbinary people, among others, could be effectively erased. In response to the ongoing changes, some groups of researchers are now rushing to archive the CDC website in full.

    Acknowledging and addressing health differences among demographic groups is a basic epidemiological tenet, Biello told me, “so we know where to target our health interventions.” She pointed to examples in her own field: Gay men have higher rates of STIs, but lower rates of obesity; transgender women have higher rates of HIV, but lower rates of prostate cancer. More broadly, demographic changes to data sets could limit the country’s ability to identify which Americans are most at risk from an expansive list of conditions including adolescent depression, STIs, even sex-specific cancers. Changing data sets in this way would be tantamount to “erasing our ability to use data and evidence” to care for people, Rachel Hardeman, a health-equity expert at the University of Minnesota, told me.

    Jennifer Nuzzo, an epidemiologist at Brown, pointed to mpox as a recent example of how replacing “gender” with “sex,” or ignoring sexual orientation, could limit effective public-health responses. At the beginning of the United States’ 2022 outbreak, neither researchers nor the public had much clarity on who was most affected, leading to widespread panic. “Officials were talking about the situation as if it was a risk we equally faced,” Nuzzo said. By collecting detailed demographic information, researchers were able to show that the disease was primarily affecting men who have sex with men, allowing officials to more efficiently allocate resources, including vaccines, and bring the epidemic under control before it affected Americans more widely.

    A scrub such as this could also change how the government allocates funds for long-standing threats to public health, which could widen health-equity gaps, or reverse progress in combatting them. Rates of STIs more generally have recently begun to plateau in the U.S., after decades of steady increase—but altering data that focus interventions on, say, transgender populations, or men who have sex with men, could undo those gains. If no data exist to prove that a health issue concentrates within a particular community, that “provides a justification to cut funding,” one researcher told me. (Several scientists who spoke with me for this article requested anonymity, for fear of retaliation for speaking out about the loss of federal data.) Sullivan, whose work focuses on HIV surveillance, compared the government’s actions to, effectively, destroying the road map to determining who in America most needs screening, pre-exposure prophylaxis, and treatment.

    Much of the data on the CDC website have been aggregated from states, so it would be possible for researchers to reassemble those data sets, Nuzzo pointed out. But that’s an onerous task, and several scientists told me they never thought they’d be in a position where they’d have to scramble to squirrel away publicly available federal data. Nuzzo also worried that states might be reluctant in the future to share data with the federal government, or might decide not to bother collecting certain data at all. On the most basic scientific level, changing federal-government data means those data become unreliable. Public-health data are collected with the intention of sussing out which populations most need health interventions; altering those data leaves behind a skewed portrait of reality.



    The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has come under scrutiny after reports surfaced that the agency is altering data to align with President Trump’s recent executive order banning critical race theory and diversity training in federal agencies.

    The order, which aims to combat what the administration calls “divisive and anti-American propaganda,” has prompted concerns that the CDC is now censoring information related to race and inequality in public health data.

    Critics argue that by altering data to fit the administration’s narrative, the CDC is compromising its integrity and undermining its mission to provide accurate and unbiased information to the public.

    This move raises serious questions about the politicization of public health data and the potential impact on efforts to address systemic racism and health disparities in the United States.

    It is crucial that the CDC remains independent and transparent in its data collection and reporting, and that any attempts to manipulate information for political purposes are met with swift condemnation and accountability.

    The public health of our nation depends on the CDC’s ability to provide reliable and unbiased data, and any efforts to undermine this vital role must be met with resistance.

    Tags:

    1. CDC data manipulation
    2. Trump DEI order impact on CDC
    3. CDC changing data for Trump
    4. Trump administration influence on CDC data
    5. CDC data accuracy under Trump
    6. CDC data integrity concerns
    7. Trump’s DEI order and CDC data alteration
    8. Political influence on CDC data
    9. CDC data transparency issues
    10. CDC data manipulation controversy

    #CDC #Altering #Data #Follow #Trumps #DEI #Order

  • CDC data shows falling measles, polio vaccination rates among kids in KY


    (LEX 18) — Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows more parents are choosing to not vaccinate their children against certain diseases, like measles, polio, and whooping cough.

    Fewer kindergarteners received the MMR (Measles, mumps and rubella) vaccine last year than before the pandemic. The CDC cites falling rates in both Kentucky and nationwide.

    During the 2023-24 school year, just 90% of Kentucky kindergartners received the MMR vaccine, down from over 93% during the 2019-20 school year.

    Nationwide, the number is down to 92.7%.

    Both are below the CDC’s target of 95% vaccination rate for a healthy community immunization level.

    Similar trends have continued for DTaP (diptheria, tetanus and pertussis) and polio vaccines since the pandemic.

    It comes as the nation saw 284 cases of measles last year, and over 32,000 cases or whooping cough (pertussis).

    This week, we put an all-call out to parents on Facebook, asking them if they are vaccinating their children or not, and why.

    The answers were mixed.

    “Parents have the right to choose what is best for their children,” one parent wrote.

    “I trust science,” wrote another.

    Just Wednesday, U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary nominee, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., faced tough questions about his reputation as a vaccine skeptic during a confirmation hearing.

    “I support the measles vaccine. I support the polio vaccine. I will do nothing as HHS secretary that makes it difficult or discourages people from taking it,” Kennedy said.

    In Kentucky, MMR, Polio and DTaP are among vaccines required for children in school, but families can request religious or medical exemptions.





    According to recent data released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), vaccination rates for measles and polio among children in Kentucky are on the decline. This concerning trend is putting the health and safety of our children at risk.

    Measles and polio are highly contagious diseases that can have serious consequences, including paralysis and even death. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent the spread of these diseases and protect our children from harm.

    It is crucial that parents and caregivers prioritize their children’s health by ensuring they are up to date on their vaccinations. By staying informed and taking action to vaccinate our children, we can help prevent the spread of these dangerous diseases and keep our communities safe.

    Let’s work together to reverse this alarming trend and protect the health and well-being of our children. Vaccination saves lives – let’s make sure our kids are protected.

    Tags:

    1. CDC data
    2. measles vaccination rates
    3. polio vaccination rates
    4. kids in Kentucky
    5. falling vaccination rates
    6. childhood vaccinations
    7. public health data
    8. immunization rates
    9. Kentucky children
    10. vaccine trends

    #CDC #data #shows #falling #measles #polio #vaccination #rates #among #kids

  • Respiratory viruses causing recent uptick in hospitalizations, CDC says


    ROANOKE, Va. (WDBJ) – It’s that time of year when we have to be extra cautious and take care of ourselves. Respiratory viruses are spreading in our hometowns.

    According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, COVID-19, Influenza and RSV are the main viruses causing an increase in the number of hospitalizations.

    The number of emergency department visits is continuing to grow. Most areas in Southwest Virginia are seeing an increase in all three viruses; however, more people need treatment for RSV.

    RSV affects children more than anyone, but the number of adults getting it this winter is growing.

    The CDC recommends washing your hands, but also teaching children the correct way to wash their hands.

    It also says to cover your mouth when you sneeze and cough, clean frequently-touched surfaces and stay home or away from others when feeling sick to prevent spreading.

    Copyright 2025 WDBJ. All rights reserved.



    Respiratory viruses causing recent uptick in hospitalizations, CDC says

    The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported a concerning increase in hospitalizations due to respiratory viruses in recent weeks. According to the CDC, a surge in cases of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), influenza, and other common respiratory illnesses have contributed to the spike in hospital admissions across the country.

    Health officials are urging the public to take precautions to prevent the spread of these viruses, including practicing good hand hygiene, wearing masks in crowded indoor spaces, and getting vaccinated against the flu. The CDC also recommends staying home if you are feeling unwell and avoiding close contact with others who are sick.

    The increase in hospitalizations is a reminder of the importance of taking steps to protect ourselves and others from respiratory illnesses, especially as we head into the fall and winter months. By following these guidelines and staying informed about the latest updates from the CDC, we can help reduce the impact of these viruses on our communities.

    Tags:

    respiratory viruses, hospitalizations, CDC, uptick, viral infections, respiratory illnesses, public health, outbreak, healthcare, pandemic, viral spread, prevention strategies, respiratory health, infectious diseases, CDC guidelines

    #Respiratory #viruses #causing #uptick #hospitalizations #CDC

  • Norovirus cases are surging in U.S., CDC data shows

    Norovirus cases are surging in U.S., CDC data shows


    Cases of a wretched stomach bug are surging in parts of the United States this winter, according to government data.

    The most recent numbers from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show there were 91 outbreaks of norovirus reported during the week of Dec. 5, up from 69 outbreaks the last week of November.

    Numbers from the past few years show a maximum of 65 outbreaks reported during that first week of December.

    A norovirus infection is characterized by sudden vomiting and diarrhea. Outbreaks are often seen on cruise ships, in congregate living situations like nursing homes and jails, as well as schools and places where people are close together.

    Here are a few things to know about the virus.

    What is norovirus?

    Norovirus is the leading cause of foodborne illness in the United States, responsible for 58% of such infections acquired in the country each year, according to the CDC.

    Norovirus infections are caused by a group of viruses that spread easily, with as few as 10 viral particles having the ability to make someone sick, health experts say.

    There are about 2,500 norovirus outbreaks reported annually in the United States. The outbreaks can occur throughout the year but are most common from November to April.

    Along with with vomiting and diarrhea, common symptoms include nausea, stomach pain, body ache, headache and fever.

    How do you get it?

    Most norovirus outbreaks occur when people who are already infected spread the virus to others by direct means, such as through sharing food or eating utensils. Outbreaks can also be spread through food, water or contaminated surfaces .

    How long do you stay sick?

    Illness caused by norovirus typically starts suddenly, with symptoms developing 12 to 48 hours following exposure to the virus. Most people get better within one to three days and recover fully.

    But with 19 to 21 million illnesses each year in the United States, norovirus nevertheless causes on average 900 deaths and 109,000 hospitalizations annually, mostly among adults aged 65 and older. It also leads to 465,000 emergency department visits, mostly involving young children.

    Who’s at risk?

    People of all ages can get infected and fall sick from norovirus. Young children, older people and those with weakened immune systems are most at risk, with dehydration from vomiting and diarrhea the top concern.

    There is no medication to treat norovirus. Rehydration is recommended by drinking water and other liquids, with the exception of coffee, tea and alcohol.

    Anyone suffering from dehydration should seek medical help. Symptoms of dehydration include a decrease in urination, dry mouth and throat, and feeling dizzy when standing. Dehydrated children may be unusually sleepy or fussy and cry with few or no tears.

    How can I protect myself?

    Rigorous and frequent handwashing is the best defense against norovirus during the peak winter season, scrubbing the hands with soap and warm water for 20 seconds before meals.

    Scrubbing surfaces with household disinfectants can also help.





    Norovirus cases are surging in U.S., CDC data shows

    The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported a sharp increase in norovirus cases across the United States. According to recent data, outbreaks of the highly contagious stomach bug have been on the rise in various states, impacting schools, nursing homes, and other communal settings.

    Norovirus is known for causing symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, and stomach cramps. The virus spreads easily through contaminated food, water, and surfaces, making it a significant public health concern.

    Health officials are urging the public to practice good hygiene, including frequent handwashing and disinfecting of surfaces, to prevent the spread of norovirus. Those who are sick with the virus are advised to stay home to avoid infecting others.

    With the holiday season approaching, the CDC is reminding individuals to take extra precautions to protect themselves and others from norovirus. By staying vigilant and following proper hygiene practices, we can help curb the spread of this unpleasant illness. Stay safe and healthy, everyone!

    Tags:

    norovirus outbreak, CDC statistics, US health crisis, prevent norovirus spread, gastrointestinal illness, viral infection, public health alert, norovirus symptoms, CDC warning, stomach bug surge

    #Norovirus #cases #surging #U.S #CDC #data #shows

  • CDC warns of bird flu mutations in first severe U.S. case

    CDC warns of bird flu mutations in first severe U.S. case


    A genetic analysis of samples from the Louisiana patient who was recently hospitalized with the country’s first severe case of H5N1 bird flu shows that the virus likely mutated in the patient to become potentially more transmissible to humans, but there’s no evidence that the virus has been passed to anyone else.The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said earlier this month that the patient was likely infected after contacting sick and dead birds in a backyard flock. In an analysis Thursday, the agency said the mutations it identified in samples taken during the patient’s hospitalization weren’t found in the birds, suggesting they aren’t in the virus widely circulating in wildlife.The mutations, similar to ones observed in a hospitalized patient in British Columbia, Canada, may make it easier for the virus to bind to cell receptors in humans’ upper respiratory tracts, the agency said in its analysis.“The changes observed were likely generated by replication of this virus in the patient with advanced disease rather than primarily transmitted at the time of infection,” the CDC said. “Although concerning, and a reminder that A(H5N1) viruses can develop changes during the clinical course of a human infection, these changes would be more concerning if found in animal hosts or in early stages of infection… when these changes might be more likely to facilitate spread to close contacts.”The agency emphasized the risk to the general public has not changed and remains low, but said the detection of the genetic mutations “underscores the importance of ongoing genomic surveillance in people and animals, containment of avian influenza A(H5) outbreaks in dairy cattle and poultry, and prevention measures among people with exposure to infected animals or environments.”The analysis found no changes associated with markers that might mean antiviral drugs wouldn’t work as well against the virus, the CDC added, and noted the samples are closely related to strains that could be used to make vaccines, if needed.The CDC found that the sequences also didn’t show changes in genes associated with adaptation to mammals. The patient was infected with a strain known as D1.1, which is closely related to viruses circulating in wild birds and poultry in the U.S. Another strain known as B3.13 has been spreading widely in dairy cows and hasn’t been found to cause severe disease in humans in the U.S.“While this sounds like good news, the H5N1 situation remains grim,” Dr. Angela Rasmussen, a virologist at the Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization at the University of Saskatchewan in Canada, posted on Bluesky on Thursday.“There has been an explosion of human cases,” she said. “We don’t know what combination of mutations would lead to a pandemic H5N1 virus… but the more humans are infected, the more chances a pandemic virus will emerge.”The CDC has confirmed 65 cases of H5N1 bird flu in humans in 2024. Of those, 39 were associated with dairy herds and 23 with poultry farms and culling operations. For two cases, the source of exposure is unknown. The severe case in the Louisiana is the only one associated with backyard flocks.Dr. Paul Offit, a vaccine scientist at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, noted the CDC said the mutations “may” enable to the virus to bind better to cell receptors in humans’ upper respiratory tracts, not that they clearly do.“I’d like to see clear evidence… that it binds well,” Offit told CNN Friday. “That hasn’t happened yet.”“And more importantly,” Offit added, “there’s not the clinical relevance that you see human-to-human spread.”

    A genetic analysis of samples from the Louisiana patient who was recently hospitalized with the country’s first severe case of H5N1 bird flu shows that the virus likely mutated in the patient to become potentially more transmissible to humans, but there’s no evidence that the virus has been passed to anyone else.

    The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said earlier this month that the patient was likely infected after contacting sick and dead birds in a backyard flock. In an analysis Thursday, the agency said the mutations it identified in samples taken during the patient’s hospitalization weren’t found in the birds, suggesting they aren’t in the virus widely circulating in wildlife.

    The mutations, similar to ones observed in a hospitalized patient in British Columbia, Canada, may make it easier for the virus to bind to cell receptors in humans’ upper respiratory tracts, the agency said in its analysis.

    “The changes observed were likely generated by replication of this virus in the patient with advanced disease rather than primarily transmitted at the time of infection,” the CDC said. “Although concerning, and a reminder that A(H5N1) viruses can develop changes during the clinical course of a human infection, these changes would be more concerning if found in animal hosts or in early stages of infection… when these changes might be more likely to facilitate spread to close contacts.”

    The agency emphasized the risk to the general public has not changed and remains low, but said the detection of the genetic mutations “underscores the importance of ongoing genomic surveillance in people and animals, containment of avian influenza A(H5) outbreaks in dairy cattle and poultry, and prevention measures among people with exposure to infected animals or environments.”

    The analysis found no changes associated with markers that might mean antiviral drugs wouldn’t work as well against the virus, the CDC added, and noted the samples are closely related to strains that could be used to make vaccines, if needed.

    The CDC found that the sequences also didn’t show changes in genes associated with adaptation to mammals. The patient was infected with a strain known as D1.1, which is closely related to viruses circulating in wild birds and poultry in the U.S. Another strain known as B3.13 has been spreading widely in dairy cows and hasn’t been found to cause severe disease in humans in the U.S.

    “While this sounds like good news, the H5N1 situation remains grim,” Dr. Angela Rasmussen, a virologist at the Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization at the University of Saskatchewan in Canada, posted on Bluesky on Thursday.

    “There has been an explosion of human cases,” she said. “We don’t know what combination of mutations would lead to a pandemic H5N1 virus… but the more humans are infected, the more chances a pandemic virus will emerge.”

    The CDC has confirmed 65 cases of H5N1 bird flu in humans in 2024. Of those, 39 were associated with dairy herds and 23 with poultry farms and culling operations. For two cases, the source of exposure is unknown. The severe case in the Louisiana is the only one associated with backyard flocks.

    Dr. Paul Offit, a vaccine scientist at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, noted the CDC said the mutations “may” enable to the virus to bind better to cell receptors in humans’ upper respiratory tracts, not that they clearly do.

    “I’d like to see clear evidence… that it binds well,” Offit told CNN Friday. “That hasn’t happened yet.”

    “And more importantly,” Offit added, “there’s not the clinical relevance that you see human-to-human spread.”



    The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a warning after the first severe case of bird flu mutations was reported in the United States. This alarming development has raised concerns about the potential for a widespread outbreak of the virus.

    The patient, who was hospitalized in critical condition, had contracted a strain of bird flu that had mutated to become more severe and transmissible. This case serves as a stark reminder of the ever-present threat of infectious diseases and the need for vigilance in preventing their spread.

    Health officials are urging the public to take precautions, such as practicing good hygiene and avoiding contact with sick birds or contaminated surfaces. They are also working to track and contain the spread of the mutated virus to prevent further cases.

    As the situation continues to evolve, it is crucial for individuals to stay informed and follow the guidance of health authorities. By taking these measures seriously, we can help protect ourselves and our communities from the potential threat of a bird flu outbreak.

    Tags:

    1. CDC
    2. Bird flu
    3. Mutations
    4. Severe case
    5. U.S.
    6. Public health
    7. Avian influenza
    8. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
    9. Pandemic preparedness
    10. Infectious diseases

    #CDC #warns #bird #flu #mutations #severe #U.S #case

  • CDC warns of bird flu mutations in first severe U.S. case

    CDC warns of bird flu mutations in first severe U.S. case


    A genetic analysis of samples from the Louisiana patient who was recently hospitalized with the country’s first severe case of H5N1 bird flu shows that the virus likely mutated in the patient to become potentially more transmissible to humans, but there’s no evidence that the virus has been passed to anyone else.The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said earlier this month that the patient was likely infected after contacting sick and dead birds in a backyard flock. In an analysis Thursday, the agency said the mutations it identified in samples taken during the patient’s hospitalization weren’t found in the birds, suggesting they aren’t in the virus widely circulating in wildlife.The mutations, similar to ones observed in a hospitalized patient in British Columbia, Canada, may make it easier for the virus to bind to cell receptors in humans’ upper respiratory tracts, the agency said in its analysis.“The changes observed were likely generated by replication of this virus in the patient with advanced disease rather than primarily transmitted at the time of infection,” the CDC said. “Although concerning, and a reminder that A(H5N1) viruses can develop changes during the clinical course of a human infection, these changes would be more concerning if found in animal hosts or in early stages of infection… when these changes might be more likely to facilitate spread to close contacts.”The agency emphasized the risk to the general public has not changed and remains low, but said the detection of the genetic mutations “underscores the importance of ongoing genomic surveillance in people and animals, containment of avian influenza A(H5) outbreaks in dairy cattle and poultry, and prevention measures among people with exposure to infected animals or environments.”The analysis found no changes associated with markers that might mean antiviral drugs wouldn’t work as well against the virus, the CDC added, and noted the samples are closely related to strains that could be used to make vaccines, if needed.The CDC found that the sequences also didn’t show changes in genes associated with adaptation to mammals. The patient was infected with a strain known as D1.1, which is closely related to viruses circulating in wild birds and poultry in the U.S. Another strain known as B3.13 has been spreading widely in dairy cows and hasn’t been found to cause severe disease in humans in the U.S.“While this sounds like good news, the H5N1 situation remains grim,” Dr. Angela Rasmussen, a virologist at the Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization at the University of Saskatchewan in Canada, posted on Bluesky on Thursday.“There has been an explosion of human cases,” she said. “We don’t know what combination of mutations would lead to a pandemic H5N1 virus… but the more humans are infected, the more chances a pandemic virus will emerge.”The CDC has confirmed 65 cases of H5N1 bird flu in humans in 2024. Of those, 39 were associated with dairy herds and 23 with poultry farms and culling operations. For two cases, the source of exposure is unknown. The severe case in the Louisiana is the only one associated with backyard flocks.Dr. Paul Offit, a vaccine scientist at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, noted the CDC said the mutations “may” enable to the virus to bind better to cell receptors in humans’ upper respiratory tracts, not that they clearly do.“I’d like to see clear evidence… that it binds well,” Offit told CNN Friday. “That hasn’t happened yet.”“And more importantly,” Offit added, “there’s not the clinical relevance that you see human-to-human spread.”

    A genetic analysis of samples from the Louisiana patient who was recently hospitalized with the country’s first severe case of H5N1 bird flu shows that the virus likely mutated in the patient to become potentially more transmissible to humans, but there’s no evidence that the virus has been passed to anyone else.

    The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said earlier this month that the patient was likely infected after contacting sick and dead birds in a backyard flock. In an analysis Thursday, the agency said the mutations it identified in samples taken during the patient’s hospitalization weren’t found in the birds, suggesting they aren’t in the virus widely circulating in wildlife.

    The mutations, similar to ones observed in a hospitalized patient in British Columbia, Canada, may make it easier for the virus to bind to cell receptors in humans’ upper respiratory tracts, the agency said in its analysis.

    “The changes observed were likely generated by replication of this virus in the patient with advanced disease rather than primarily transmitted at the time of infection,” the CDC said. “Although concerning, and a reminder that A(H5N1) viruses can develop changes during the clinical course of a human infection, these changes would be more concerning if found in animal hosts or in early stages of infection… when these changes might be more likely to facilitate spread to close contacts.”

    The agency emphasized the risk to the general public has not changed and remains low, but said the detection of the genetic mutations “underscores the importance of ongoing genomic surveillance in people and animals, containment of avian influenza A(H5) outbreaks in dairy cattle and poultry, and prevention measures among people with exposure to infected animals or environments.”

    The analysis found no changes associated with markers that might mean antiviral drugs wouldn’t work as well against the virus, the CDC added, and noted the samples are closely related to strains that could be used to make vaccines, if needed.

    The CDC found that the sequences also didn’t show changes in genes associated with adaptation to mammals. The patient was infected with a strain known as D1.1, which is closely related to viruses circulating in wild birds and poultry in the U.S. Another strain known as B3.13 has been spreading widely in dairy cows and hasn’t been found to cause severe disease in humans in the U.S.

    “While this sounds like good news, the H5N1 situation remains grim,” Dr. Angela Rasmussen, a virologist at the Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization at the University of Saskatchewan in Canada, posted on Bluesky on Thursday.

    “There has been an explosion of human cases,” she said. “We don’t know what combination of mutations would lead to a pandemic H5N1 virus… but the more humans are infected, the more chances a pandemic virus will emerge.”

    The CDC has confirmed 65 cases of H5N1 bird flu in humans in 2024. Of those, 39 were associated with dairy herds and 23 with poultry farms and culling operations. For two cases, the source of exposure is unknown. The severe case in the Louisiana is the only one associated with backyard flocks.

    Dr. Paul Offit, a vaccine scientist at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, noted the CDC said the mutations “may” enable to the virus to bind better to cell receptors in humans’ upper respiratory tracts, not that they clearly do.

    “I’d like to see clear evidence… that it binds well,” Offit told CNN Friday. “That hasn’t happened yet.”

    “And more importantly,” Offit added, “there’s not the clinical relevance that you see human-to-human spread.”



    The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a warning about mutations of the bird flu virus after the first severe case was reported in the United States.

    According to the CDC, the patient was hospitalized with a severe respiratory illness caused by the H5N1 strain of the bird flu virus. This strain is known to be highly pathogenic and can cause severe illness in humans.

    The CDC is urging healthcare providers to be on high alert for any patients presenting with flu-like symptoms, especially if they have a history of exposure to birds or poultry. They are also advising the public to take precautions to prevent the spread of the virus, such as washing hands frequently and avoiding contact with sick birds.

    This news serves as a reminder of the importance of monitoring and tracking the spread of infectious diseases, especially those with the potential to mutate and cause severe illness. Stay informed and take necessary precautions to protect yourself and your loved ones from the bird flu virus.

    Tags:

    1. CDC bird flu warning
    2. U.S. bird flu mutation
    3. CDC severe bird flu case
    4. Bird flu updates
    5. CDC flu outbreak
    6. Bird flu mutations in U.S.
    7. CDC warning on bird flu
    8. Severe bird flu case in U.S.
    9. CDC flu alert
    10. Bird flu news and updates

    #CDC #warns #bird #flu #mutations #severe #U.S #case

  • CDC warns of bird flu mutations in first severe U.S. case

    CDC warns of bird flu mutations in first severe U.S. case


    A genetic analysis of samples from the Louisiana patient who was recently hospitalized with the country’s first severe case of H5N1 bird flu shows that the virus likely mutated in the patient to become potentially more transmissible to humans, but there’s no evidence that the virus has been passed to anyone else.The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said earlier this month that the patient was likely infected after contacting sick and dead birds in a backyard flock. In an analysis Thursday, the agency said the mutations it identified in samples taken during the patient’s hospitalization weren’t found in the birds, suggesting they aren’t in the virus widely circulating in wildlife.The mutations, similar to ones observed in a hospitalized patient in British Columbia, Canada, may make it easier for the virus to bind to cell receptors in humans’ upper respiratory tracts, the agency said in its analysis.“The changes observed were likely generated by replication of this virus in the patient with advanced disease rather than primarily transmitted at the time of infection,” the CDC said. “Although concerning, and a reminder that A(H5N1) viruses can develop changes during the clinical course of a human infection, these changes would be more concerning if found in animal hosts or in early stages of infection… when these changes might be more likely to facilitate spread to close contacts.”The agency emphasized the risk to the general public has not changed and remains low, but said the detection of the genetic mutations “underscores the importance of ongoing genomic surveillance in people and animals, containment of avian influenza A(H5) outbreaks in dairy cattle and poultry, and prevention measures among people with exposure to infected animals or environments.”The analysis found no changes associated with markers that might mean antiviral drugs wouldn’t work as well against the virus, the CDC added, and noted the samples are closely related to strains that could be used to make vaccines, if needed.The CDC found that the sequences also didn’t show changes in genes associated with adaptation to mammals. The patient was infected with a strain known as D1.1, which is closely related to viruses circulating in wild birds and poultry in the U.S. Another strain known as B3.13 has been spreading widely in dairy cows and hasn’t been found to cause severe disease in humans in the U.S.“While this sounds like good news, the H5N1 situation remains grim,” Dr. Angela Rasmussen, a virologist at the Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization at the University of Saskatchewan in Canada, posted on Bluesky on Thursday.“There has been an explosion of human cases,” she said. “We don’t know what combination of mutations would lead to a pandemic H5N1 virus… but the more humans are infected, the more chances a pandemic virus will emerge.”The CDC has confirmed 65 cases of H5N1 bird flu in humans in 2024. Of those, 39 were associated with dairy herds and 23 with poultry farms and culling operations. For two cases, the source of exposure is unknown. The severe case in the Louisiana is the only one associated with backyard flocks.Dr. Paul Offit, a vaccine scientist at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, noted the CDC said the mutations “may” enable to the virus to bind better to cell receptors in humans’ upper respiratory tracts, not that they clearly do.“I’d like to see clear evidence… that it binds well,” Offit told CNN Friday. “That hasn’t happened yet.”“And more importantly,” Offit added, “there’s not the clinical relevance that you see human-to-human spread.”

    A genetic analysis of samples from the Louisiana patient who was recently hospitalized with the country’s first severe case of H5N1 bird flu shows that the virus likely mutated in the patient to become potentially more transmissible to humans, but there’s no evidence that the virus has been passed to anyone else.

    The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said earlier this month that the patient was likely infected after contacting sick and dead birds in a backyard flock. In an analysis Thursday, the agency said the mutations it identified in samples taken during the patient’s hospitalization weren’t found in the birds, suggesting they aren’t in the virus widely circulating in wildlife.

    The mutations, similar to ones observed in a hospitalized patient in British Columbia, Canada, may make it easier for the virus to bind to cell receptors in humans’ upper respiratory tracts, the agency said in its analysis.

    “The changes observed were likely generated by replication of this virus in the patient with advanced disease rather than primarily transmitted at the time of infection,” the CDC said. “Although concerning, and a reminder that A(H5N1) viruses can develop changes during the clinical course of a human infection, these changes would be more concerning if found in animal hosts or in early stages of infection… when these changes might be more likely to facilitate spread to close contacts.”

    The agency emphasized the risk to the general public has not changed and remains low, but said the detection of the genetic mutations “underscores the importance of ongoing genomic surveillance in people and animals, containment of avian influenza A(H5) outbreaks in dairy cattle and poultry, and prevention measures among people with exposure to infected animals or environments.”

    The analysis found no changes associated with markers that might mean antiviral drugs wouldn’t work as well against the virus, the CDC added, and noted the samples are closely related to strains that could be used to make vaccines, if needed.

    The CDC found that the sequences also didn’t show changes in genes associated with adaptation to mammals. The patient was infected with a strain known as D1.1, which is closely related to viruses circulating in wild birds and poultry in the U.S. Another strain known as B3.13 has been spreading widely in dairy cows and hasn’t been found to cause severe disease in humans in the U.S.

    “While this sounds like good news, the H5N1 situation remains grim,” Dr. Angela Rasmussen, a virologist at the Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization at the University of Saskatchewan in Canada, posted on Bluesky on Thursday.

    “There has been an explosion of human cases,” she said. “We don’t know what combination of mutations would lead to a pandemic H5N1 virus… but the more humans are infected, the more chances a pandemic virus will emerge.”

    The CDC has confirmed 65 cases of H5N1 bird flu in humans in 2024. Of those, 39 were associated with dairy herds and 23 with poultry farms and culling operations. For two cases, the source of exposure is unknown. The severe case in the Louisiana is the only one associated with backyard flocks.

    Dr. Paul Offit, a vaccine scientist at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, noted the CDC said the mutations “may” enable to the virus to bind better to cell receptors in humans’ upper respiratory tracts, not that they clearly do.

    “I’d like to see clear evidence… that it binds well,” Offit told CNN Friday. “That hasn’t happened yet.”

    “And more importantly,” Offit added, “there’s not the clinical relevance that you see human-to-human spread.”



    Recently, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a warning about the mutations of the bird flu virus after the first severe case was reported in the United States. The patient, who had close contact with infected poultry, experienced severe respiratory symptoms and had to be hospitalized.

    The CDC is closely monitoring the situation and is urging people to take precautions to prevent the spread of the virus. This includes avoiding contact with sick or dead birds, practicing good hygiene, and seeking medical attention if experiencing flu-like symptoms.

    Experts are concerned about the potential for the virus to mutate further and become more transmissible among humans. This could lead to a widespread outbreak with serious consequences.

    It is crucial for everyone to stay informed and take necessary precautions to protect themselves and others from the bird flu virus. Stay tuned for updates from the CDC and follow their recommendations to stay safe and healthy.

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  • CDC data could signal start of pandemic’s ‘winter wave’

    CDC data could signal start of pandemic’s ‘winter wave’






    As COVID-19 cases continue to rise across the country, data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) could signal the beginning of the pandemic’s “winter wave.” With colder temperatures driving people indoors and holiday gatherings on the horizon, experts are warning that the coming months could see a significant surge in cases.

    According to the latest CDC data, several states are already experiencing an increase in COVID-19 infections, with hospitalizations and deaths also on the rise. Health officials are urging the public to remain vigilant and continue practicing safety measures such as wearing masks, practicing social distancing, and getting vaccinated.

    As we enter the holiday season, it’s more important than ever to take precautions to protect ourselves and others from the virus. By following guidelines set forth by the CDC and staying informed about the latest developments, we can work together to mitigate the impact of the winter wave and help bring an end to the pandemic.

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  • Bird flu virus shows mutations in first severe human infection in US, CDC says | Bird flu

    Bird flu virus shows mutations in first severe human infection in US, CDC says | Bird flu


    The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said on Thursday its analysis of samples from the first severe case of bird flu in the country last week showed mutations not seen in samples from an infected backyard flock on the patient’s property.

    The CDC said the patient’s sample showed mutations in the hemagglutinin (HA) gene, the part of the virus that plays a key role in it attaching to host cells.

    The agency said the risk to the general public from the outbreak has not changed and remains low.

    Last week, the United States reported its first severe case of the virus, in a Louisiana resident above the age of 65, who was suffering from severe respiratory illness.

    The patient had been infected with the D1.1 genotype of the virus that had been recently detected in wild birds and poultry in the US, and not the B3.13 genotype detected in dairy cows, humans and some poultry in multiple states.

    The mutations seen in the patient are rare but have been reported in some cases in other countries and most often during severe infections. One of the mutations was also seen in another severe case in British Columbia, Canada.

    No transmission from the patient in Louisiana to other persons has been identified, said the CDC.



    The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported the first severe human infection of the bird flu virus in the United States, showing mutations that raise concerns about its potential to spread rapidly. The patient, who was infected with the H5N1 strain of the virus, was hospitalized in January and is currently in critical condition.

    This development highlights the ongoing threat of avian influenza and the need for continued vigilance in monitoring and controlling its spread. The CDC is working closely with local and state health departments to investigate the case and track any potential contacts to prevent further transmission.

    The bird flu virus, which primarily affects birds, has occasionally been transmitted to humans through close contact with infected poultry. While human cases are rare, they can be severe and even fatal. The mutations detected in this case raise concerns about the virus’s ability to adapt and infect humans more easily.

    It is crucial for the public to remain informed about the risks of avian influenza and take appropriate precautions, such as avoiding contact with sick or dead birds and practicing good hygiene. The CDC continues to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as more information becomes available.

    Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.

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  • Arm & Hammer CDC 84113 42.6 oz Carpet And Room Allergen Reducer And Odor Eliminator Powder, Shaker Box

    Arm & Hammer CDC 84113 42.6 oz Carpet And Room Allergen Reducer And Odor Eliminator Powder, Shaker Box


    Price: $11.57
    (as of Dec 18,2024 16:06:40 UTC – Details)



    Arm & Hammer CDC 84113 42.6 oz Carpet And Room Allergen Reducer And Odor Eliminator, Shaker Box
    Is Discontinued By Manufacturer ‏ : ‎ No
    Product Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 9 x 4 x 3 inches; 2.8 Pounds
    Item model number ‏ : ‎ CDC 84113
    Date First Available ‏ : ‎ February 5, 2009
    Manufacturer ‏ : ‎ Arm & Hammer
    ASIN ‏ : ‎ B004ISLJYG

    Unique powdered formula eliminates odors at the source
    Baking soda goes deep into carpets to eliminate odors
    Carpet and room allergen reducer and odor eliminator
    Unique powdered formula eliminates odors at the source and reduces the level of allergens in carpeting

    Customers say

    Customers appreciate the product’s effectiveness in removing allergens and freshening the air. They find it helps reduce sneezing and allergy-like symptoms. Many consider it a good value for the price and easy to vacuum up. However, some customers have issues with its strength and have different opinions on the scent.

    AI-generated from the text of customer reviews


    Introducing the Arm & Hammer CDC 84113 42.6 oz Carpet And Room Allergen Reducer And Odor Eliminator Powder!

    If you’re looking for a powerful way to reduce allergens and eliminate odors in your home, look no further than this innovative product. This shaker box contains a specially formulated powder that helps to trap and neutralize allergens like pet dander, dust mite debris, and pollen, while also eliminating tough odors at the source.

    Simply sprinkle the powder onto your carpets, rugs, upholstery, and other surfaces, let it sit for a few minutes, and then vacuum it up to reveal fresher, cleaner air. Not only will this product improve the air quality in your home, but it will also leave your space smelling fresh and inviting.

    Don’t let allergens and odors take over your home – try the Arm & Hammer CDC 84113 42.6 oz Carpet And Room Allergen Reducer And Odor Eliminator Powder today and experience the difference for yourself! #ArmAndHammer #AllergenReducer #OdorEliminator #CleanAir
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