Listeners, here is today’s update on public health alerts in the United States, as of June 16, 2025.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention operates the Health Alert Network, which is the main channel for distributing urgent information on pressing public health incidents. This network collaborates with federal, state, tribal, and local partners to ensure timely delivery of critical alerts and recommendations. Health Alerts signal the most serious threats, while Advisories and Updates provide additional context and ongoing guidance. The CDC’s system reaches over one million recipients and covers more than 90% of the U.S. population.
As of today, the country continues to face an unprecedented rise in measles cases, as reported by the CDC. As of June 12, there have been 1,197 confirmed measles cases this year across 35 states and jurisdictions including Alaska, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, New York, Ohio, Texas, and Washington, among others. There have been 21 measles outbreaks in 2025, with 90% of all cases being outbreak-associated. Tragically, three measles-related deaths have been confirmed this year. The CDC highlights that most cases are in individuals who are either unvaccinated or whose vaccination status is unknown. The agency emphasizes the importance of keeping children and travelers up to date with the measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine, pointing to international travel as a key factor in many new infections.
Regional health alerts, such as those from the California Department of Public Health, continue to stress vigilance regarding influenza A H5N1, especially for healthcare professionals. Although no new national Han Alerts have been issued today, the most recent concern on this front was the recommendation for accelerated subtyping of influenza A in hospitalized patients to support rapid public health response, first issued in April.
Global infectious diseases continue to be monitored closely, with ProMED reporting ongoing measles outbreaks in states such as Iowa, Michigan, and Colorado. While these reports echo CDC findings, they also highlight that the rapid sharing of data between public health agencies and clinicians remains central to controlling spread and ensuring community safety.
Another issue gaining attention is the lingering impact of severe COVID-19 pneumonia, especially among older populations. According to CDC’s Emerging Infectious Diseases journal, long-term effects, including the need for regular health monitoring, remain a consideration even as acute cases decrease.
The next scheduled public meeting of the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices is set for later this month and will include updates on vaccine guidance, with continued emphasis on outbreak preparedness and immunization status.
In summary, listeners should be aware that measles represents the most significant ongoing public health concern in the United States today, wit
This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.