https://africandailypost.com/c/health Health en-002 https://africandailypost.com/a/2026-09-01-who-nnmda-call-for-investment-in-traditional-medicine-research-6acc31d779 https://africandailypost.com/a/2026-09-01-who-nnmda-call-for-investment-in-traditional-medicine-research-6acc31d779 The World Health Organization and Nigeria Natural Medicine Development Agency called for greater investment in traditional medicine research, regulation and innovation in Africa on Sept. 1, during the 24th African Traditional Medicine Day. Tue, 01 Sep 2026 01:41:54 GMT https://africandailypost.com/a/2026-09-01-dr-congo-ebola-outbreak-passes-6-000-cases-and-nearly-2-900-deaths-48881e6431 https://africandailypost.com/a/2026-09-01-dr-congo-ebola-outbreak-passes-6-000-cases-and-nearly-2-900-deaths-48881e6431 The Democratic Republic of Congo has reported more than 6,000 confirmed Ebola cases and nearly 2,900 deaths as of September 1, 2026, in the country’s largest recorded outbreak. Tue, 01 Sep 2026 00:08:54 GMT https://africandailypost.com/a/2026-08-31-african-traditional-medicine-day-highlights-research-and-primary-care-b71f2458ad https://africandailypost.com/a/2026-08-31-african-traditional-medicine-day-highlights-research-and-primary-care-b71f2458ad The 24th African Traditional Medicine Day was observed across Africa on August 31, with WHO-led discussions focused on integrating traditional medicine into primary care and supporting universal health coverage. Mon, 31 Aug 2026 12:14:17 GMT https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-28-south-carolina-measles-outbreak-reaches-789-cases-raising-concerns-abo https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-28-south-carolina-measles-outbreak-reaches-789-cases-raising-concerns-abo Health officials say South Carolina’s measles outbreak has grown to 789 confirmed cases since September, surpassing last year’s large Texas outbreak and becoming the biggest in the U.S. since measles was declared eliminated. The surge, centered in Spartanburg County, has led to quarantines and heightened concern among public health experts about continued transmission. Wed, 28 Jan 2026 21:17:55 GMT https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-28-cms-names-15-drugs-for-next-medicare-price-talks-including-botox-and-t https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-28-cms-names-15-drugs-for-next-medicare-price-talks-including-botox-and-t CMS selected 15 high-cost drugs for the third cycle of Medicare price negotiations, including Botox and the diabetes drug Trulicity, with talks occurring in 2026 and new prices scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2028. Wed, 28 Jan 2026 21:11:18 GMT https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-28-cms-names-15-drugs-including-botox-for-the-next-round-of-medicare-pric https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-28-cms-names-15-drugs-including-botox-for-the-next-round-of-medicare-pric The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) announced a new list of 15 high-cost drugs selected for the third cycle of Medicare drug price negotiations, including Botox and the diabetes drug Trulicity. CMS said negotiations will occur in 2026 and the negotiated prices are slated to take effect on January 1, 2028. CMS also said one previously negotiated drug, Tradjenta, was selected for renegotiation. Wed, 28 Jan 2026 21:06:42 GMT https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-27-cdc-data-show-measles-cases-confirmed-in-nine-states-early-in-2026-wit https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-27-cdc-data-show-measles-cases-confirmed-in-nine-states-early-in-2026-wit Updated CDC figures cited by ABC News show at least 171 measles cases confirmed in nine states so far in 2026, with South Carolina and Utah continuing to manage outbreaks that began earlier. Tue, 27 Jan 2026 21:04:38 GMT https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-27-study-warns-gaps-in-cdc-database-updates-weaken-u-s-outbreak-detection https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-27-study-warns-gaps-in-cdc-database-updates-weaken-u-s-outbreak-detection A study reported that many CDC health surveillance databases were delayed or stopped updating during 2025, including several tracking vaccinations and vaccine-preventable diseases. Researchers warned the breakdown could leave the U.S. less prepared for outbreaks and public health emergencies. Tue, 27 Jan 2026 20:53:43 GMT https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-27-cms-proposes-nearly-flat-2027-medicare-advantage-rate-increase-raising https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-27-cms-proposes-nearly-flat-2027-medicare-advantage-rate-increase-raising CMS released its 2027 Medicare Advantage and Part D advance notice projecting a 0.09% net average payment increase, a headline number that insurers and clinicians say could translate into higher premiums and tighter benefits if finalized. Tue, 27 Jan 2026 20:47:55 GMT https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-27-31-000-kaiser-permanente-health-care-workers-strike-across-california- https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-27-31-000-kaiser-permanente-health-care-workers-strike-across-california- Tens of thousands of Kaiser Permanente nurses and other health professionals walked off the job in California and Hawaii, saying staffing levels, compensation and delays in patient care have reached a breaking point. Kaiser says it is working to maintain operations as talks continue, and the walkout is expected to last until an agreement is reached. Tue, 27 Jan 2026 20:43:29 GMT https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-27-cms-outlines-2027-medicare-advantage-and-part-d-payment-policy-proposa https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-27-cms-outlines-2027-medicare-advantage-and-part-d-payment-policy-proposa CMS released its 2027 advance notice for Medicare Advantage and Part D, projecting a net average payment increase of 0.09% and detailing methodological updates affecting risk adjustment and quality bonus calculations. The proposal is expected to spark intense insurer feedback as plans prepare 2027 benefits and premiums. Tue, 27 Jan 2026 20:37:21 GMT https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-27-cms-proposes-near-flat-2027-medicare-advantage-payment-update-insurer- https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-27-cms-proposes-near-flat-2027-medicare-advantage-payment-update-insurer- The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services proposed a net average 0.09% year-over-year Medicare Advantage payment increase for 2027, far below what many analysts expected. The proposal sparked sharp moves in health insurer shares as companies warned of tighter margins and potential benefit changes. Tue, 27 Jan 2026 20:31:46 GMT https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-26-bottled-water-vs-tap-microplastics-pfas-fears-and-what-filters-can-and https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-26-bottled-water-vs-tap-microplastics-pfas-fears-and-what-filters-can-and Bottled water is often chosen as a ‘safer’ option, but experts warn it can add significant microplastic exposure compared with tap water. The best choice may depend on local contamination risks—and on whether people can realistically maintain effective filtration. Mon, 26 Jan 2026 21:31:48 GMT https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-26-who-ethiopia-ends-first-ever-marburg-outbreak-after-intensified-survei https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-26-who-ethiopia-ends-first-ever-marburg-outbreak-after-intensified-survei The World Health Organization said Ethiopia has declared its first Marburg virus disease outbreak over after 42 consecutive days without new confirmed cases, following response efforts spanning surveillance, labs, case management and community engagement. Mon, 26 Jan 2026 21:18:30 GMT https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-26-aap-releases-2026-vaccine-schedule-diverging-from-cdc-updates-amid-flu https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-26-aap-releases-2026-vaccine-schedule-diverging-from-cdc-updates-amid-flu The American Academy of Pediatrics published its 2026 childhood vaccine schedule after the CDC issued a revised schedule that reduces some universal recommendations. Pediatric leaders say families should follow AAP guidance and discuss concerns with clinicians as influenza remains severe. Mon, 26 Jan 2026 21:07:13 GMT https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-26-tennessee-reports-a-histoplasmosis-outbreak-1-dead-dozens-sickened-as- https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-26-tennessee-reports-a-histoplasmosis-outbreak-1-dead-dozens-sickened-as- Health officials in Tennessee are investigating an outbreak of histoplasmosis, a fungal respiratory illness often linked to disturbed soil contaminated by bird or bat droppings, after one death and dozens of illnesses were reported across multiple counties. Mon, 26 Jan 2026 20:57:44 GMT https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-26-fda-and-cdc-investigate-salmonella-outbreak-tied-to-super-greens-suppl https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-26-fda-and-cdc-investigate-salmonella-outbreak-tied-to-super-greens-suppl U.S. regulators are investigating a multistate Salmonella outbreak linked to a greens supplement powder sold online, with dozens of reported illnesses and a voluntary recall in progress. Mon, 26 Jan 2026 20:47:53 GMT https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-26-aap-releases-2026-vaccine-schedule-diverging-from-cdc-guidance-on-rout https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-26-aap-releases-2026-vaccine-schedule-diverging-from-cdc-guidance-on-rout The American Academy of Pediatrics published its 2026 immunization schedule, maintaining broad routine vaccine recommendations even as the CDC’s updated schedule reduced some universal recommendations, renewing debate over guidance and public confidence. Mon, 26 Jan 2026 20:43:10 GMT https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-26-ethiopia-declares-its-first-marburg-virus-outbreak-over-after-42-days- https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-26-ethiopia-declares-its-first-marburg-virus-outbreak-over-after-42-days- Ethiopia has declared the end of its first Marburg virus outbreak after completing the WHO-recommended 42-day period without new confirmed cases, closing an outbreak that began in November 2025 and involved confirmed infections and deaths in the country’s south. Mon, 26 Jan 2026 20:34:11 GMT https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-26-pediatricians-back-18-disease-vaccine-schedule-diverging-from-cdc-s-pa https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-26-pediatricians-back-18-disease-vaccine-schedule-diverging-from-cdc-s-pa The American Academy of Pediatrics released its 2026 childhood and adolescent vaccine schedule, continuing to recommend immunization against 18 diseases even as the CDC’s updated schedule recommends fewer universally for children. Pediatric leaders say the AAP guidance is based on longstanding evidence and aims to prevent the return of dangerous, vaccine-preventable infections. Mon, 26 Jan 2026 20:24:43 GMT https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-26-cdc-public-health-infrastructure-grants-briefly-paused-as-states-repor https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-26-cdc-public-health-infrastructure-grants-briefly-paused-as-states-repor Federal officials paused more than 100 CDC-backed public health infrastructure grants worth over $5 billion while reviewing whether spending aligns with administration priorities, according to notices shared by grantees. The episode raised alarms among state health agencies that rely on the multi-year program for workforce and modernization efforts. Mon, 26 Jan 2026 20:17:08 GMT https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-26-pediatricians-endorse-broader-childhood-vaccination-guidance-as-some-p https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-26-pediatricians-endorse-broader-childhood-vaccination-guidance-as-some-p The American Academy of Pediatrics released vaccine guidance that diverges from the CDC’s revised schedule, recommending immunizations against more diseases. Separately, doctors warned that more parents are refusing newborn vitamin K shots, a decision linked to higher bleeding risks in early life. Mon, 26 Jan 2026 20:10:13 GMT https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-26-ethiopia-declares-end-of-its-first-marburg-outbreak-after-42-days-with https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-26-ethiopia-declares-end-of-its-first-marburg-outbreak-after-42-days-with Ethiopia declared the end of its first Marburg virus outbreak after completing the required 42-day period with no new confirmed cases. The outbreak began in November 2025 and caused multiple deaths, including among health workers. Mon, 26 Jan 2026 20:05:36 GMT https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-25-u-s-measles-surge-puts-elimination-status-at-risk-ahead-of-an-internat https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-25-u-s-measles-surge-puts-elimination-status-at-risk-ahead-of-an-internat International health authorities are preparing to assess whether uninterrupted measles transmission in the U.S. meets criteria that would end the country’s elimination designation, as outbreaks persist and vaccination gaps widen. Sun, 25 Jan 2026 15:59:45 GMT https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-25-states-face-confusion-after-abrupt-pause-then-reversal-of-a-5-billion- https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-25-states-face-confusion-after-abrupt-pause-then-reversal-of-a-5-billion- Health departments across the U.S. were whipsawed when a major federal public health grant program was suddenly paused and then quickly reversed, complicating planning for emergency preparedness and routine health operations. Sun, 25 Jan 2026 15:49:19 GMT https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-25-enhanced-aca-subsidies-expire-setting-up-steep-premium-increases-for-m https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-25-enhanced-aca-subsidies-expire-setting-up-steep-premium-increases-for-m Enhanced Affordable Care Act tax credits ended on January 1, 2026, driving sharp premium increases for many marketplace enrollees. Analysts warn millions could drop coverage unless Congress renews the subsidies, raising stakes for health policy fights this year. Sun, 25 Jan 2026 15:38:50 GMT https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-25-u-s-at-risk-of-losing-measles-elimination-status-as-outbreaks-persist- https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-25-u-s-at-risk-of-losing-measles-elimination-status-as-outbreaks-persist- International health authorities are expected to review whether the United States still meets the definition of measles elimination after a year of linked outbreaks. Experts say the milestone is largely symbolic, but the continued spread reflects weakened vaccination coverage and public health capacity. Sun, 25 Jan 2026 15:31:20 GMT https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-25-cdc-updates-childhood-immunization-schedule-after-presidential-directi https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-25-cdc-updates-childhood-immunization-schedule-after-presidential-directi The CDC announced changes to the U.S. childhood immunization schedule on January 5, 2026, shifting several vaccines into high-risk or shared decision-making categories while keeping coverage requirements; medical groups have sharply criticized the move. Sun, 25 Jan 2026 15:20:12 GMT https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-25-state-health-agencies-face-uncertainty-after-abrupt-pause-and-reversal https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-25-state-health-agencies-face-uncertainty-after-abrupt-pause-and-reversal State and local health departments were jolted after the federal government paused a large public health infrastructure grant and then reversed course. Officials said the episode disrupted planning and underscored how quickly administrative decisions can cascade into operational risk for disease response and emergency preparedness. Sun, 25 Jan 2026 15:10:22 GMT https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-25-cdc-says-it-accepted-recommendations-to-update-u-s-childhood-immunizat https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-25-cdc-says-it-accepted-recommendations-to-update-u-s-childhood-immunizat The CDC announced it accepted recommendations from a scientific assessment of U.S. childhood immunization practices, following a directive to compare schedules with other developed nations. The move has triggered immediate scrutiny from public-health stakeholders, and it arrives as the U.S. faces renewed pressure from vaccine-preventable disease outbreaks. Sun, 25 Jan 2026 15:00:27 GMT https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-25-cdc-says-it-updated-the-childhood-immunization-schedule-after-a-presid https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-25-cdc-says-it-updated-the-childhood-immunization-schedule-after-a-presid Federal health officials announced an updated U.S. childhood immunization schedule following a presidential memorandum directing HHS and the CDC to review international practices. The agency said vaccines remain covered without cost-sharing while recommendations are organized into categories, a change that has sparked debate among public health experts and clinicians. Sun, 25 Jan 2026 14:50:24 GMT https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-25-us-faces-measles-elimination-review-as-outbreaks-persist-and-paho-prep https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-25-us-faces-measles-elimination-review-as-outbreaks-persist-and-paho-prep The U.S. could lose its measles elimination status if transmission continues uninterrupted for 12 months, with international health authorities set to review the situation in April 2026. Public health experts say slipping vaccination coverage and repeated outbreaks have created the conditions for the virus to spread widely again. Sun, 25 Jan 2026 14:40:15 GMT https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-25-u-s-flu-season-remains-intense-as-hospitals-track-heavy-burden-and-fam https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-25-u-s-flu-season-remains-intense-as-hospitals-track-heavy-burden-and-fam The 2025–26 U.S. flu season has been marked by high levels of flu-like illness and substantial hospitalizations, prompting renewed public health messaging around vaccination, early treatment and protecting high-risk groups. Sun, 25 Jan 2026 14:34:04 GMT https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-25-cdc-u-s-flu-activity-remains-elevated-but-has-eased-for-two-straight-w https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-25-cdc-u-s-flu-activity-remains-elevated-but-has-eased-for-two-straight-w The CDC’s mid-January FluView update said influenza activity stayed elevated nationwide but decreased or held steady for two consecutive weeks. Officials noted they would keep monitoring for another wave that often follows the winter holidays. Sun, 25 Jan 2026 14:25:33 GMT https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-25-cdc-reports-416-confirmed-u-s-measles-cases-in-2026-so-far-most-tied-t https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-25-cdc-reports-416-confirmed-u-s-measles-cases-in-2026-so-far-most-tied-t CDC’s latest update says 416 measles cases have been confirmed in the U.S. in 2026 so far, with most linked to outbreaks that started in 2025 and cases spread across multiple jurisdictions. Sun, 25 Jan 2026 14:14:05 GMT https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-25-cdc-labels-2025-26-flu-season-moderately-severe-as-infections-and-hosp https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-25-cdc-labels-2025-26-flu-season-moderately-severe-as-infections-and-hosp U.S. health officials have characterized the 2025–26 influenza season as moderately severe, with millions of illnesses estimated so far. Public health experts point to holiday travel, vaccination gaps and misinformation as contributors as activity remains elevated. Sun, 25 Jan 2026 14:07:56 GMT https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-25-cdc-reports-at-least-18-million-flu-illnesses-this-season-pediatric-de https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-25-cdc-reports-at-least-18-million-flu-illnesses-this-season-pediatric-de The CDC’s weekly FluView update for the week ending January 10, 2026 estimates at least 18 million illnesses, 230,000 hospitalizations, and 9,300 deaths from influenza so far this season. The report highlights that among pediatric deaths with known vaccine status, most occurred in children who were not fully vaccinated. Sun, 25 Jan 2026 14:03:57 GMT https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-25-u-s-risks-losing-measles-elimination-status-as-outbreaks-persist-into- https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-25-u-s-risks-losing-measles-elimination-status-as-outbreaks-persist-into- Public health officials warn that sustained measles transmission could end the U.S. elimination designation, with outbreaks linked to gaps in vaccination coverage and rising exemptions. Sun, 25 Jan 2026 13:58:22 GMT https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-25-cdc-investigates-multistate-salmonella-outbreak-linked-to-super-greens https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-25-cdc-investigates-multistate-salmonella-outbreak-linked-to-super-greens Federal and state health officials are investigating a multistate Salmonella outbreak linked to a greens supplement powder and urging consumers to discard or return recalled products. Sun, 25 Jan 2026 13:54:09 GMT https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-25-pediatric-groups-sue-over-scaled-back-childhood-vaccine-recommendation https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-25-pediatric-groups-sue-over-scaled-back-childhood-vaccine-recommendation A coalition led by the American Academy of Pediatrics is suing over changes to U.S. childhood vaccine guidance that removed universal recommendations for several shots, arguing the shift endangers public health and bypassed standard processes. Sun, 25 Jan 2026 13:51:00 GMT https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-25-u-s-risks-losing-measles-elimination-status-as-outbreak-nears-a-full-y https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-25-u-s-risks-losing-measles-elimination-status-as-outbreak-nears-a-full-y A persistent measles outbreak could trigger a review in 2026 that may strip the U.S. of its elimination status, reflecting declining vaccination coverage and widening public health vulnerabilities. Sun, 25 Jan 2026 12:46:43 GMT https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-25-hhs-says-cdc-moved-to-update-u-s-childhood-immunization-schedule-after https://africandailypost.com/a/health-2026-01-25-hhs-says-cdc-moved-to-update-u-s-childhood-immunization-schedule-after A federal decision memo described actions to update the childhood immunization schedule following an administration directive to compare U.S. practices with peer countries and assess the underlying evidence. Sun, 25 Jan 2026 08:22:18 GMT