Views from the nation’s press

• The CDC and DHS Customs and Border Protection (CBP) have implemented enhanced public health screenings at designated airports starting May 28, 2026. • These measures are a direct response to an active Ebola disease outbreak to prevent the virus from entering the United States.

• Representative Esposito is urging the FDA to accelerate the approval process for rare disease treatments, noting that 30 million Americans suffer from over 10,000 different rare conditions. • The push highlights UX111 gene therapy, which clinical trials show can reduce toxin buildup for over eight years and slow cognitive decline when administered early.

• Recent health reports highlight critical gaps in private equity oversight, climate-related health disparities, and uneven access to genomic testing. • Data shows that two-sided risk Medicare Advantage arrangements correlate with fewer hospital admissions and emergency department visits, particularly in high-Social Vulnerability Index communities.

• A study by researchers from University College London, King’s College London, and the University of Oxford found that younger UK generations are becoming sicker earlier than previous ones. • The research analyzed health trends across cohorts born between 1946 and 2000–02, identifying a rise in early-onset illness.

• An FDA advisory panel overwhelmingly recommended on Thursday that manufacturers base the 2026-2027 Covid-19 vaccine formulas on the dominant XFG variant. • This recommendation ensures that future vaccine iterations remain effective against evolving strains of the virus to maintain public health protections.

• An FDA advisory panel will convene this Thursday to determine which Covid-19 strain vaccine manufacturers should target for the 2026-2027 season. • The meeting occurs as the United States continues to navigate a shifting vaccine infrastructure and evolving public health needs.

• A US federal health agency has announced its support for two new research projects focusing on focused ultrasound technology. • The initiative highlights the critical role of FDA clearance and approval for manufacturers, medical device companies, and laboratories producing commercial diagnostic tests.

• Researchers are testing a novel approach to treating depression by using anti-inflammatory drugs to calm the immune system rather than targeting brain chemicals. • In a small clinical trial conducted around May 28, 2026, early results indicate that reducing systemic inflammation may alleviate depressive symptoms.

• Medical specialty societies are increasing their outreach and evidence-based guidance to fill communication gaps left by federal public health officials. • The Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) is collaborating with the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases and over a dozen other organizations to address public health needs.

• Dr. Katherine Szarama recently served as the acting director of the FDA's Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research (CBER) for less than three weeks. • CBER is the critical division within the U.S. Food and Drug Administration responsible for overseeing the approval process for vaccines.

• The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has confirmed a new Ebola outbreak in the remote Ituri province of eastern Congo. • As of May 15, health officials have recorded 246 suspected cases and 65 deaths linked to the virus.

• The FDA is expected to review several groundbreaking neurology drugs in 2026, focusing on expanding treatment options for various neurologic conditions. • A key anticipated decision involves the subcutaneous weekly dosing of lecanemab for Alzheimer's disease, which would allow for home administration.