Main Menu
Join GHQA Connect

Global & Public Health News: Thursday, October 30, 2025

By /

Here are eight significant news items in global health and public health for today, October 30, 2025:

1. 🦠 Mpox Clade Ib Community Transmission Detected in Europe and US

Health authorities in Europe and the U.S., including the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), are urging increased mpox vaccinations after Clade Ib mpox cases were identified in multiple European countries and the U.S. in individuals with no known travel link to endemic areas. The development suggests community transmission of the Clade Ib strain, which has not been previously observed in this population group outside of Africa.

2. 💉 Saudi Arabia Partners with CSL Seqirus for Local Flu Vaccine Manufacturing

In a major move to strengthen national and regional health security, CSL Seqirus has signed an agreement with the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Health and the Vaccine Industrial Company (VIC) to localize the manufacturing of advanced cell-based seasonal and pandemic influenza vaccines. The partnership aims to boost national preparedness and establish a regional vaccine production leader.

3. 🚨 Global Chikungunya Resurgence Prompts WHO Alert

The World Health Organization (WHO) has highlighted a significant resurgence of Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) disease globally in 2025, with over 445,000 suspected and confirmed cases reported as of September. The spread is attributed to the expanded distribution of Aedes mosquitoes, a challenge exacerbated by climate change and urbanization, underscoring the need to strengthen vector control.

4. 🇵🇸 Gaza Health Crisis Remains “Catastrophic” as Aid Efforts Continue

The humanitarian and health crisis in Gaza is reportedly worsening, with WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus reiterating that the hunger crisis remains at a “catastrophic” level. The UN reports that over $7 billion would be needed to rebuild Gaza’s health facilities, as aid delivery remains challenged by restrictions, damaged infrastructure, and continued hostilities.

5. 📉 Federal Shutdown Impacts Public Health Workforce

The prolonged U.S. federal government shutdown continues to impact the public health sector. The Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) is proceeding with layoffs, particularly affecting staff at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), following a court-ordered halt and review of erroneous termination notices. The workforce reduction affects critical public health functions including emergency preparedness.

6. 🛑 Measles Cases in the U.S. Hit 1,648 for 2025

The CDC has reported a total of 1,648 confirmed measles cases in the United States as of October 28, 2025, with 43 outbreaks reported throughout the year. The high number of cases and outbreaks highlights the ongoing challenge of vaccine hesitancy and the risk of disease re-establishment in communities with low vaccination rates.

7. 💊 FDA Final Guidance on Expanded Access to Investigational Drugs

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued final guidance on Expanded Access to Investigational Drugs for Treatment Use (often called “compassionate use”). The guidance clarifies the processes, requirements, and safeguards for patients seeking access to unapproved drugs outside of clinical trials, aiming to balance patient needs with safety protocols.

8. ⚕️ Nomination Hearing for New U.S. Surgeon General

The Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) is scheduled to hold a hearing today, October 30, 2025, on the nomination of Casey Means to be the Medical Director in the regular corps of the Public Health Service and the U.S. Surgeon General. This is a key step in filling a major leadership position in U.S. public health.

Related Posts

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top