Who is eligible for this year's COVID vaccine? Everything you need to know

The CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices has voted to recommend against the use of the MMRV vaccine for children under four years old. This decision could limit options for parents seeking to protect their kids from measles, mumps, rubella, and chickenpox. It's significant because it may impact vaccination rates and public health efforts aimed at preventing outbreaks of these diseases.

As discussions about vaccine policies begin, Senator Bill Cassidy has raised concerns about potential new restrictions. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that routine vaccinations remain accessible, regardless of any recommendations from the CDC panel. This matter is significant as it highlights the ongoing debate over public health measures and the role of government in healthcare decisions.

In a recent Senate health committee hearing, former C.D.C. director Dr. Susan Monarez revealed significant clashes with Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., portraying him as ideologically driven and dismissive of government scientists. This testimony highlights ongoing turmoil within the C.D.C., raising concerns about the agency's direction and effectiveness in public health management. Monarez's insights are crucial as they shed light on the internal struggles that could impact health policy and response strategies.

This week, the CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) is set to discuss three important vaccines: the combined measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella vaccine, the hepatitis B vaccine, and COVID vaccines. This meeting is crucial as it will influence public health policies and vaccination strategies, impacting how communities manage these diseases.

In a proactive move, California, Oregon, Washington, and Hawaii have come together to issue their own vaccine recommendations for Covid, flu, and RSV this fall. This decision follows recent firings at federal health agencies, highlighting the states' commitment to public health amidst uncertainty. By taking this initiative, these states aim to ensure that their residents receive timely and effective guidance on vaccinations, which is crucial for community health as new vaccine strategies are anticipated from the federal level.

Former CDC director Susan Monarez raised alarms during her testimony to senators, revealing that Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. pressured her to endorse recommendations from a newly formed vaccine panel. This situation is concerning as it highlights potential political interference in public health decisions, which could undermine trust in vaccines and public health initiatives.

A new breakthrough in vaccine administration could change the way we receive immunizations. Researchers have discovered that using a suction device to stretch the skin enhances its permeability and activates immune cells, potentially allowing vaccines to be delivered topically without needles. This innovation not only promises to make vaccinations less painful but could also improve accessibility and compliance, especially for those who fear needles.

This week in science news, we explore the discovery of the world's oldest mummy and an intriguing ant species that mates with clones of a distant relative. These findings not only shed light on ancient civilizations but also challenge our understanding of reproduction in the animal kingdom. Such discoveries are essential as they expand our knowledge of biodiversity and evolutionary processes, making them significant for both researchers and enthusiasts alike.

A significant milestone has been reached as sixty states have ratified a global treaty aimed at protecting the oceans, which will officially come into force in January. This treaty is crucial for marine conservation and reflects a growing international commitment to safeguarding our oceans, highlighting the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing environmental challenges.

The CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices has recently updated its recommendations regarding eligibility for this year's COVID-19 vaccines. This is important as it helps clarify who can receive the updated vaccines, ensuring that those most at risk are protected. Staying informed about these changes is crucial for public health and safety.

The recent decision by Kennedy's vaccine panel to limit access to COVID shots has raised concerns among public health advocates. This move could hinder efforts to achieve widespread vaccination, which is crucial for controlling the pandemic. As COVID-19 continues to pose a threat, limiting access to vaccines may lead to increased infections and complications, making this decision significant for public health.

A recent survey reveals that a quarter of UK university physics departments are at risk of closure due to funding pressures, with four out of five departments already making staff cuts. This alarming trend raises concerns about the future of physics education in the UK and its implications for the country's leadership in scientific research and innovation. The Institute of Physics highlights the urgency of addressing these challenges to ensure the sustainability of physics as a vital field of study.

Exciting news for space enthusiasts! NASA's VIPER moon rover, which was thought to be shelved, is set to be launched by Blue Origin in 2027. This mission aims to hunt for ice on the moon, which could be crucial for future lunar exploration and even for potential human colonization. The collaboration between NASA and Jeff Bezos' company highlights a significant step forward in our quest to understand the moon's resources and pave the way for deeper space missions.