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Kick-off a Healthy Summer: Respiratory Health & Immunization News - June/July 2026

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STAY HEALTHY	SPOTLIGHT	NEW FINDINGS	OBSERVANCES	ANNOUNCEMENT

June/July 2026

Welcome to the Respiratory Health and Immunization Newsletter from CDC. This is your trusted source for clear, timely information on immunizations and respiratory illnesses. Whether you’re looking for vaccination updates, tips to prevent respiratory illnesses, or reliable answers to common questions, this newsletter is here to support your health decisions with credible, easy-to-understand information.  Stay healthy this summer

Whether you're cheering on your favorite soccer team, celebrating America's 250th anniversary, or enjoying a backyard barbecue with family and friends, summer is a time for connection and fun. With more gatherings and travel, it's also a good time to think about simple steps that can help you stay healthy all summer long. Respiratory illness activity is low in most areas of the country but may vary by community. CDC provides practical recommendations to help you lower health risks posed by a range of common respiratory illnesses.

Everyday healthy habits help keep the focus on fun and friendship, not illness.

What you can do Good hygiene goes a long way, and we don't just mean washing your hands after eating barbecue or popsicles! For some respiratory illnesses, there are no vaccines or treatments available, making these everyday habits your best defense: Wash your hands regularly and clean frequently touched surfaces Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or use the inside of your elbow If you feel sick, stay home and away from others If you are 65 or older, have a weakened immune system, or an underlying health condition, talk to your doctor about the best way to stay protected Respiratory illness spotlight

What is human metapneumovirus? You may not have heard of human metapneumovirus (HMPV), but chances are you or someone you know has had it. HMPV is a common respiratory virus that can affect people of all ages, causing symptoms similar to a cold: cough, fever, nasal congestion, and shortness of breath. In some cases, it can progress to bronchitis or pneumonia, especially in young children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems. There is no vaccine or treatment for HMPV. That makes everyday prevention habits especially important. What you can do Wash your hands frequently with soap and water Clean commonly touched surfaces like countertops, doorknobs, and handrails Take steps for cleaner air by opening windows, using an air purifier indoors, or gathering outdoors If you feel sick, stay home and away from other people

New scientific findings

What backyard flock owners should know about bird flu If you keep chickens, ducks, or other backyard birds, this one is for you. Avian influenza viruses (such as A(H5)), also known as bird flu, have been circulating among wild birds in the United States and can spread to backyard flocks. A new CDC study published in the Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report surveyed 638 backyard flock owners across the United States and found that: Most respondents had heard of bird flu and were aware of the recent outbreaks, but roughly half could not identify all signs of infection in birds. Respondents were able to recognize common flu-like symptoms in people, but many did not identify all possible signs and symptoms. Most respondents knew the recommended precautions to take if they suspected avian influenza in their flock. Having more knowledge about avian influenza was linked to increased intent to use personal protective equipment (PPE). Learn more about bird flu → What you can do Learn the warning signs in birds. Know that bird flu can cause sudden death, low energy, poor appetite, trouble breathing, fewer eggs, and diarrhea. Make a plan about when to contact your veterinarian, local agriculture department, or health department if your birds get sick. Know the symptoms in people. Watch for fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, fatigue, headache, muscle aches, eye redness or watering, diarrhea, or vomiting after contact with birds, and seek medical care promptly if symptoms develop. Use the right protection before touching sick or dead birds. Avoid handling sick or dead birds when possible. If you must handle sick or dead birds, use recommended PPE such as disposable gloves, rubber boots or boot covers, a well-fitting mask or N95 respirator, eye protection, and disposable coveralls.

June and July observances

June: Men’s Health Month This observance seeks to bring awareness of preventable health problems and encourage men and boys to seek medical advice from their health care providers for early detection and treatment of disease and injury. June: HPV vaccine anniversary This year marks 20 years since the first HPV vaccine was approved in the United States, marking a major milestone in cancer prevention. For two decades, HPV vaccination has helped protect millions of people from HPV infections that can lead to certain cancers. July: CDC turns 80  July 1st marks 80 years since the inception of CDC as a federal agency. Learn more about CDC’s history and impact over the years through the David J. Spencer CDC Museum’s online exhibitions.

Announcement

	The job posting for the permanent Director of the National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases (NCIRD) has been posted on USAJobs and will close on July 6. This is a critically important leadership role for CDC and for the public health of America. All interested and exceptional candidates are encouraged to apply.

U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 1600 Clifton Rd   Atlanta, GA 30329   1-800-CDC-INFO (800-232-4636)   TTY: 888-232-6348 Questions or Problems  |  Unsubscribe

Stay Well, Protect Yourself: Respiratory Health & Immunization News - May 2026

MEASLES	STAY HEALTHY	OBSERVANCES

MAY 2026

Welcome to the Respiratory Health and Immunization Newsletter from CDC. This is your trusted source for clear, timely information on immunizations and respiratory illnesses. Whether you’re looking for vaccination updates, tips to prevent respiratory illnesses, or reliable answers to common questions, this newsletter is here to support your health decisions with credible, easy-to-understand information.  Protect your family from measles before summer travel

Since early 2025, measles cases have been increasing in the United States and in many places around the world. Measles can be dangerous, especially for babies and young children.  While we can’t predict where measles will spread, outbreaks occur when measles is introduced into communities with large numbers of people who are not protected against measles. CDC continues to recommend the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine as the best way to prevent measles.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk.

What you can do If you’re unsure if you’re protected against measles, talk to your doctor about MMR vaccine, especially if you or your child plan to travel.  Vaccination timing tips With spring and summer travel season approaching, plan to be fully vaccinated at least 2 weeks before your trip. If your trip is less than 2 weeks away and you're not protected, you should still get a dose of MMR vaccine. Call your doctor or your local health department; or locate a health center or clinic near you to schedule an appointment for the MMR vaccine.    Visit CDC's measles website for the latest news → Stay healthy year round

Respiratory virus illnesses typically peak during the fall and winter in the United States. But did you know that COVID-19 can also peak during the summer and other times of the year? Everyday prevention actions can help you protect yourself and others from health risks caused by COVID-19. What you can do You can protect yourself and your loved ones from COVID-19 by  Staying up to date on vaccines Washing your hands Improving indoor air Staying home when sick Using extra precautions if you're at higher risk of getting very sick If you were vaccinated last fall and you’re 65 or older or have a weakened immune system, you’re eligible for a second dose now for added protection. Getting a second dose in the spring, ahead of a possible increase in COVID-19 activity over the summer, offers the best protection against severe illness, hospitalization, and death. If you haven’t received a dose this year, your doctor or pharmacist can help you decide whether it’s right for you.

COVID-19 can peak during the summer.

Those who might benefit from a second dose include People 65 years of age and older Those who are moderately or severely immunocompromised or have underlying medical conditions People living in long-term care facilities  If you have any questions or concerns about the benefits and potential risks associated with vaccines, talk to your healthcare provider to understand your options.  Track COVID-19 activity in your local community →

Observances

May 6-12: National Nurses Week Join us this National Nurses Week to honor the nurses who are on the front lines of respiratory illness prevention every day. From administering vaccines to educating patients and families, nurses are essential partners in reducing severe illness and keeping communities healthy. May 10-16: Women’s Health Week May 10-16 is National Women’s Health Week, a time to spotlight the importance of prevention, routine care, and protecting health across every stage of life. Staying connected to regular care, including talking with your doctor about vaccines, plays a vital role in helping women protect both themselves and their families.

U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 1600 Clifton Rd   Atlanta, GA 30329   1-800-CDC-INFO (800-232-4636)   TTY: 888-232-6348 Questions or Problems  |  Unsubscribe

CDC Updates | New In-Season Estimates of COVID-19 and RSV - 1/7/2025

This message includes updates on respiratory viruses from CDC.

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January 7, 2025 This message includes updates on respiratory viruses from CDC.

New COVID-19 and RSV Estimates Can Help Shape Prevention Efforts     It is not possible to know exactly how many people get sick from COVID-19 and RSV. That’s because not everyone who gets COVID-19 or RSV will get tested or seek medical care. Also, COVID-19 and RSV are not nationally notifiable diseases. This means only cases that lead to hospitalization are reported to CDC.   Because of this, CDC uses models to estimate the national impact of COVID-19 and RSV—for example, how many people go to a healthcare provider or are hospitalized because of these illnesses. The models use inputs from continually updated surveillance data and data from the latest scientific studies. CDC has published similar estimates for flu for many years.   People can use this information to help them make informed decisions about their healthcare, such as vaccination, testing, and treatment. These estimates can help public health officials promote prevention measures and plan for COVID-19 and RSV impacts on healthcare systems to ensure that Americans can continue to get the healthcare they need during times of widespread respiratory illnesses. The estimates will also help us compare the burden associated with COVID-19 and RSV year over year and compare it to other respiratory illnesses.   Preliminary U.S. COVID-19 and RSV burden estimates since October 1, 2024, are available on CDC’s website and will be updated weekly on Fridays. This year’s and previous years’ flu disease burden estimates are also available.

Learn More

Certain Groups at Increased Risk for Severe Health Outcomes from Parvovirus B19 Parvovirus B19 infection can lead to serious health complications for certain groups, including those with a weakened immune system, chronic hemolytic blood disorders (like sickle cell disease), or who are pregnant.   New data from three MMWRs show that: The percentage of positive human parvovirus B19 results in clinical specimens more than doubled in 2024 compared to pre-pandemic levels. In Minnesota, during the first 10 months of 2024, 19 cases of parvovirus B19-associated pregnancy complication were identified compared to a total of 28 cases identified during the preceding 5 years. A sickle cell disease clinic in Atlanta, GA, found that the rate of severe anemia due to parvovirus B19 infection in children with sickle cell disease more than tripled during the first nine months of 2024 compared to the overall rate for the previous 14 years. For most people, infection with parvovirus B19 causes no symptoms or mild illness, such as flu-like symptoms, rash, and joint pain. Talk with your doctor if you are pregnant, have a weakened immune system, or have a chronic hemolytic blood disorder (like sickle cell disease) and are experiencing flu-like symptoms. Learn More

Patient Assistance Programs Lower Cost of COVID-19 Treatment  COVID-19 oral antiviral treatments Paxlovid and Lagevrio can reduce the risks of hospitalization and death if you’re at increased risk of getting very sick. Patient assistance programs are available to people who are prescribed treatment and are underinsured, uninsured, or on Medicare or Medicaid to lower their out-of-pocket costs. If you get COVID-19 and are prescribed COVID-19 treatment, enroll in these programs to learn if you can receive assistance for specific medications. Learn More

Respiratory Virus Data Channel Weekly Snapshot  The Respiratory Virus Weekly Snapshot provides an update on COVID-19, flu, and RSV activity nationally and in your state. Check back every Friday for the latest data.

	Learn More

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 1600 Clifton Rd   Atlanta, GA 30329   1-800-CDC-INFO (800-232-4636)   TTY: 888-232-6348 Questions or Problems  |  Unsubscribe