Policy

H5N1 bird flu in U.S. cattle: A wake-up call to action Comparisons to seasonal flu management underestimate the unique challenges posed by H5N1 bird flu. Patrick Skerrett STAT

The recent detection of H5N1 bird flu in U.S. cattle, coupled with reports of a dairy worker contracting the virus, demands a departure from the usual reassurances offered by federal health officials. While they emphasize there’s no cause for alarm and assert diligent monitoring, it’s imperative we break from this familiar script.

To rebuild trust in public health: Better communication, fewer mandates, and small wins Rebuilding trust in the CDC won't be quick or easy — especially in a divisive political season — but that doesn't make it any less important. Patrick Skerrett STAT

by Tom Frieden, former head of CDC

... In many countries — notably the United States — the pandemic dissolved trust between parts of the community and the public health system. How can that trust be restored? In a word: gradually. Trust is built in drops and lost in buckets.

EPA to crack down on toxic emissions from more than 200 chemical plants The Biden administration will require more than 200 chemical plants to cut their emissions of toxic chemicals as part of a broader effort to reduce cancer cases. The Environmental Protection Agency… rfrazin The Hill

The Biden administration will require more than 200 chemical plants to cut their emissions of toxic chemicals as part of a broader effort to reduce cancer cases.

Opinion | How to counter vaccine misinformation in political discourse Childhood immunizations should not be a partisan talking point. Leana S. Wen The Washington Post

This fact might be hard to believe, but there’s no denying it: Anti-vaccine sentiments are likely to play a key role in this year’s election. ...