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.

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