Your Local Epidemiologist

Your Local Epidemiologist is a Substack that dissects public health issues, focusing on current events and emerging research. It covers epidemic patterns, vaccine developments, public health policy implications, and the role of science in society. It advocates for evidence-based decisions and addresses misinformation in public health communication.

Public Health Epidemiology Vaccine Development COVID-19 Research Science Communication Misinformation in Public Health Mental Health Health Policy

The hottest Substack posts of Your Local Epidemiologist

And their main takeaways

A snapshot into how deportations affect health

1399 implied HN points • 13 Jun 25

Deportations affect not just the individuals who are removed but also the families and communities left behind, especially children who may experience trauma, stress, and uncertainty.
Studies show that fear of deportation can lead families to avoid seeking medical care, which can have serious public health implications for entire communities.
Support from caregivers, educators, and communities is crucial for children and families affected by these policies, helping them cope and thrive despite the challenges they face.

RFK Jr. guts the U.S. vaccine policy committee

2249 implied HN points • 10 Jun 25

🏥 Health Politics Vaccines Public Health Policy Epidemiology Health Insurance

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has removed all members of the U.S. vaccine policy committee, which has been a trusted part of vaccine safety and recommendations for decades.
The change raises concerns about who will be appointed next and whether they will rely on scientific evidence or personal beliefs to guide vaccine policy.
If vaccine recommendations change or lose credibility, it could affect insurance coverage, access to vaccines for children, and create inconsistent state policies that may risk public health.

What I’m learning from MAHA

3091 implied HN points • 06 Jun 25

🏥 Health Politics Public Health Vaccination Health Communication

It's important to work with trusted voices in the community to make health information easier to understand. By collaborating, we can create better resources that respect people's choices.
People want to have control over their health decisions, but they also need guidance. Public health should support individual choice while promoting community health.
Public health is all about protecting people, not making profits like big companies. We need to clarify this to build trust and show how we can help communities thrive.

Covid still quiet, measles, ticks, smoke, EMTALA, and seed oil confusion

1232 implied HN points • 09 Jun 25

🏥 Health & Wellness Public Health Healthcare policy Nutrition Environmental health

A new class of antibiotics has been approved for treating urinary tract infections, which is great news in the fight against antibiotic resistance.
Measles cases are rising in several states, especially among unvaccinated children, highlighting the importance of vaccination during summer travel.
Wildfire smoke from Canada is affecting air quality in many areas, so it's smart to check local air quality levels and take safety precautions when needed.

Covid summer and confusion, measles, cucumber recall, maternal health declining, and a curious MAHA report

1855 implied HN points • 02 Jun 25

🏥 Health Politics Public Health Vaccines Maternal health Disease outbreaks Health Policy

COVID-19 cases are currently low in the U.S., but summer waves are common. A new variant could lead to increasing cases, so it's important to stay informed.
There is a lot of confusion around who can get COVID-19 vaccines right now. Eligibility seems to change often, and it's crucial to keep up with the latest guidelines.
The MAHA report raised concerns about children's health but lacked detail on important issues like poverty. We need clear strategies and proper funding to truly improve children's health.

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Covid vaccines for pregnancy and babies: Sorting fact from chaos

1023 implied HN points • 04 Jun 25

🏥 Health Politics Vaccination Public Health Pregnancy COVID-19

Pregnant women and children can still get the Covid-19 vaccine, which is both safe and effective. This helps protect the mother and child from the virus.
Vaccination during pregnancy can pass important antibodies to the baby, offering short-term protection after birth. But as these antibodies fade, it's crucial for babies to get their own vaccinations starting at 6 months.
There has been some confusion about vaccine eligibility lately due to changing recommendations, but speaking with a healthcare provider can help clarify options for parents.

What would making America healthy really mean?

1742 implied HN points • 30 May 25

🏥 Health Politics Public Health Policy Making Health Systems Community health Healthcare Innovation

America's health system is facing serious problems, with cuts to important services like Medicaid and a lack of support for scientists. This is making it harder for people to get the care they need.
We need to imagine a better future where everyone has access to clean air, healthy food, and support systems that actually work for families. This means integrating health services and making them easy to access.
It's important for leaders to listen to people and build a health system that is fair, data-driven, and responsive. We must prioritize long-term health over short-term fixes.

Covid-19 vaccines, what just happened at the FDA, and why it matters

3078 implied HN points • 21 May 25

🏥 Health Politics Vaccine Policy Public Health Epidemiology FDA Regulations

The FDA has changed Covid-19 vaccine guidelines, now recommending them only for people over 65 or those with chronic conditions. This means younger, healthy adults might not get access to vaccines soon.
Normally, big health decisions follow a clear process involving many experts and public discussions. But this recent change was made by just a few appointed officials without involving the usual expert groups.
Many believe this new approach is worrying because it skips the detailed, evidence-based discussions that are important for public health decisions.

What are ultra-processed foods, really?

1591 implied HN points • 28 May 25

🏥 Health & Wellness Nutrition Public Health Dietary Guidelines Food Science Health Research

Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) can be convenient and affordable, but they are often linked to health issues like obesity and heart disease. It's important to know that not all processed foods are bad; some can actually be nutritious.
Research shows that diets high in UPFs may lead to overeating and poorer health, but the exact reasons for this aren't fully understood yet. The type of UPF matters, with sugary drinks and processed meats being the most harmful.
To eat healthier, you can look for foods with lower added sugars and sodium, while being mindful of marketing claims. Sometimes, it’s okay to include UPFs in your diet, especially when they meet your specific needs.

A big discovery, Medicaid cuts, states removing fluoride, drug price questions, and more.

1287 implied HN points • 19 May 25

🏥 Health Politics Public Health Policy Changes Medicaid Epidemiology

A recent breakthrough in genetics used new tools to fix a baby's rare disease by editing their DNA. This could lead to treatments for many other genetic disorders.
Florida is removing fluoride from drinking water, which could affect many people's dental health. This decision might inspire other states to follow suit.
Proposed cuts to Medicaid could leave 8.6 million people without health coverage, highlighting the importance of contacting lawmakers about healthcare access.

Your top 10 FAQ on drug prices

1591 implied HN points • 15 May 25

🏥 Health Politics Drug Pricing Healthcare policy Pharmaceuticals Public Health Patient Advocacy

Drug prices in the U.S. are much higher than in other countries because drug companies set their own prices, and patents keep competition away for many years. This results in Americans paying more for medications.
High drug prices lead people to skip doses or avoid taking medicine altogether, which can result in serious health issues. Many people can't afford their medications, causing preventable health problems.
There are possible solutions to lower drug prices, like the government negotiating prices and reforming patents to allow generics more quickly. However, it requires public pressure and political will to make these changes happen.

My promise to you

6868 implied HN points • 02 Feb 25

🏥 Health Politics Public Health Epidemiology Health Policy Community health Public awareness

The goal is to provide clear, evidence-based health information, not to add to the noise of social media. This platform is designed to help you make informed decisions for your health.
Transparency is key, and it’s important to understand what the science says and what it means for you. It's okay to admit when we don’t know something and to clarify the difference between data and opinions.
Public health is about people, not just statistics. Every issue will be approached with empathy to consider the real human impact behind the numbers.

A week of chaos in public health

3907 implied HN points • 24 Jan 25

🏥 Health Politics Public Health Policy Changes Epidemiology Research Funding Health Communication

There has been a major pause in public health communications and research, which could lead to delays in tackling important health threats like bird flu.
The changes in public health leadership could have serious impacts on funding for research and the health safety systems that protect communities.
Despite the chaos, local public health teams are still crucial and will keep working to ensure community health, showing that public health is about more than just federal leadership.

Power also comes from the bottom up

3352 implied HN points • 29 Jan 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Policy Political Advocacy Health Systems

Federal grants are really important because they support many services that people rely on, like food programs and shelters. Changes to these grants can have a big impact on communities and people's lives.
There are efforts to fight back against the recent funding freeze, with many groups coming together to challenge it. This shows that people can still have power and make a difference even in tough situations.
Staying connected with local communities and sharing stories can help highlight the issues at hand. Small actions like reaching out to representatives or joining efforts can spark positive change.

Flu is (still) taking off, egg prices, new diet standards, Super Bowl, and more

2404 implied HN points • 10 Feb 25

🏥 Health Politics Public Health Nutrition Vaccination Epidemiology Disease Control

Flu cases are rising sharply this year, with many people experiencing 'influenza-like illnesses' since 2002. Fewer vaccinations among kids and a mismatch between the vaccine and circulating flu strains are contributing to this problem.
A new Ebola vaccine trial has started in Uganda quickly after an outbreak occurred. This is an important step to help control the spread of the virus and protect public health.
New nutrition guidelines suggest that kids aged 5 to 18 should mainly drink plain water and milk, while sugar-sweetened beverages should be limited. This can help improve their overall health and prevent issues like weight gain and dental problems.

Why should you care about an indirect cost?

2155 implied HN points • 11 Feb 25

🏥 Health Politics Public Health Research Funding Policy Changes Community Engagement Epidemiology

Indirect costs are essential for research. They cover things like rent and internet, helping researchers do their work effectively.
A proposed cut in indirect costs could greatly harm universities and their communities. This could lead to job losses and less innovation, affecting everyone.
Researchers need to do a better job of connecting with the public. If people understand the importance of research funding, they may be more likely to support it.

Data and communication are gold

2389 implied HN points • 04 Feb 25

🏥 Health Politics Public Health Data Integrity Communication Epidemiology Biosecurity

Public health data is crucial for keeping people safe and informed. When this data is lost or manipulated, it poses a serious risk to health and safety.
Changes in government orders are causing confusion and delays in data reporting, affecting how health agencies communicate important health information.
Local health departments and universities are still working to share necessary health updates while federal agencies face challenges. Staying informed through local sources is key during this instability.

The U.S. withdrawal from the WHO

2760 implied HN points • 23 Jan 25

🏥 Health Politics Global Health Public Health Health Policy Epidemiology International cooperation

The U.S. withdrawal from the WHO means less influence in global health decisions, leaving a gap that countries like China might fill.
The WHO faces challenges like limited funding and authority, which makes it hard to enforce health policies effectively.
Even though the U.S. has strong public health systems, global health threats affect everyone, so it's important to stay involved with organizations like the WHO.

Hope and camaraderie are stronger than fear

1900 implied HN points • 07 Feb 25

🏥 Health Politics Public Health Policy Changes Health Communication Community Engagement Mental health

Hope helps us get through tough times, even when things seem scary. It reminds us that positive change is possible.
Working together and sharing our stories makes us stronger. It shows the real impact of policies on people's lives.
Even when problems feel overwhelming, small wins matter. Many people are fighting for better public health every day.

RFK Jr. Hearings

2058 implied HN points • 31 Jan 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Health Policy Public Health Vaccination Debate Government oversight

RFK Jr. showed he wasn't well-prepared for the hearings, struggling with basic healthcare facts and confusing important programs like Medicaid and Medicare.
He often ignored solid scientific evidence, calling for more data on topics like vaccine safety, despite clear proof already available.
RFK Jr. made controversial statements that could harm specific groups, like suggesting different vaccine schedules based on race and downplaying mental illness stigma.

Body as a shell

4557 implied HN points • 15 Nov 24

🏥 Health Politics Public Health Epidemiology Health Education Policy Issues Science communication

RFK Jr. has been picked to lead the Health and Human Services, which worries many public health professionals. They feel this could undermine efforts to improve public health.
There is a strong concern that misinformation will spread, leading people to make poor health decisions. The fear is that lies can spread faster than the truth.
Despite feelings of exhaustion and frustration, public health workers remain committed to fighting misinformation. They believe it's important to keep providing accurate information to help people make informed choices.

Here's what we're getting ourselves into

2286 implied HN points • 21 Jan 25

🏥 Health Politics Public Health Healthcare policy Epidemiology Chronic Disease Health Communication

Many people think natural things are always good, but that's not true. Some natural things can be harmful, like germs that cause diseases.
It's important to rely on science rather than just the appeal of nature. Some human-made medicines save lives, even when natural solutions sound better.
We need policies that look at the real issues affecting health, not just ones that follow popular but incorrect ideas about nature. Ignoring the complexities can lead to more health problems.

H5N1 Update: January 7

1940 implied HN points • 07 Jan 25

🏥 Health Politics Epidemiology Public Health Infectious Disease Vaccination Pandemic Preparedness

H5N1, or bird flu, is still spreading among animals and has now caused its first human death in the U.S. It's a serious virus, but the general public's risk remains low for now.
Experts are worried about H5N1 because it could mutate and become more dangerous, especially if it spreads among animals that are close to humans. Keeping tabs on this virus is important.
Right now, there's not much for the average person to do except stay informed. Avoid sick animals and unpasteurized milk to stay safe, and let health officials manage the outbreak.

The Dose (January 3)

1867 implied HN points • 03 Jan 25

🏥 Health & Wellness Public Health Vaccination Nutrition Disease Prevention Epidemiology

Winter is here, and respiratory illnesses like flu, COVID, and RSV are on the rise across the country. It's important to stay aware as health services could get overwhelmed.
The new COVID-19 vaccine is showing good results, especially for older adults, helping to reduce hospital visits significantly. Keeping up with vaccinations can strengthen your immunity.
Some Costco eggs may be contaminated with salmonella, so it's best to check your fridge and avoid those eggs to keep your family safe.

Now what for public health?

2790 implied HN points • 08 Nov 24

🏥 Health Politics Public Health Vaccination policy Health Communication Health Misinformation Epidemiology

We need to adapt to a new public health world because of unreliable leadership and misinformation. This means being more thoughtful in how we communicate and make decisions.
Building bridges and finding common ground is essential for effective public health. Listening and showing empathy can help people trust the information provided.
Fighting for the truth against falsehoods will be a major challenge. It's important to promote reliable sources of information to help individuals make informed health choices.

We are likely at peak season

1384 implied HN points • 14 Jan 25

🏥 Health Politics Public Health Epidemiology Vaccination Infectious Diseases Health Policy

Right now, many people are getting sick, and it seems like we are in the peak season for respiratory illnesses. The usual patterns we see are pretty much the same as before the pandemic.
Flu cases are very high but appear to be slowing down. However, we might still face more waves of flu with different strains hitting later in the winter.
Covid-19 cases are increasing, but they are lower than in past winters. Vaccination and past infections have helped build immunity, which is why this winter seems milder.

YLE milestone, Red Dye #3, air quality in LA, raw cat food, and more on alcohol.

1187 implied HN points • 17 Jan 25

🏥 Health & Wellness Public Health Nutrition Epidemiology Environmental health Policy

The FDA has banned Red Dye No. 3 from food and drugs because it was linked to cancer in lab animals. Even though it's mostly gone already, some products in stores still have it.
Air quality can be misleading after wildfires. Just because the air is rated as 'healthy' doesn't mean it's safe, as many harmful pollutants might still be present.
Moderate drinking might not be as safe as we thought. Recent reports suggest that even one drink a day could increase health risks, especially if there are other health issues involved.

22 Public Health Accomplishments in 2024

1472 implied HN points • 27 Dec 24

🏥 Health Politics Public Health Epidemiology Health Policy Disease Prevention Health Education

Opioid overdose deaths in the U.S. dropped thanks to programs that provide treatment and education on overdose prevention. This is a big win after many years of rising deaths.
There was a 2% decline in sexually transmitted infections, showing that efforts to control and educate about these diseases are making a difference.
Cervical cancer deaths are decreasing among young women, likely due to the success of the HPV vaccine. This suggests that vaccination is successfully protecting future generations.

Up, up, and away

1530 implied HN points • 19 Dec 24

🏥 Health Politics Public Health Epidemiology Vaccination Infectious Diseases Disease Prevention

Influenza-like illnesses are on the rise in the U.S., which means more people are getting sick. It's not peak season yet, but it's a good idea to wear a mask when traveling.
The flu is spreading quickly, especially the Flu A strain. Vaccination rates are lower this year, which may lead to more severe cases, so getting vaccinated is still encouraged.
Covid-19 cases are increasing gradually, with new variants making it easier to catch. As we head into winter and holiday gatherings, it's wise to get vaccinated to stay protected.

The fluoride debate

1979 implied HN points • 19 Nov 24

🏥 Health Politics Public Health Epidemiology Health Policy Community health Dental Health

Fluoride helps strengthen our teeth and prevents cavities, which is why it's in toothpaste and is often added to public water supplies.
Fluoridated water has been effective in reducing tooth decay overall, especially in communities with less access to dental care.
The safety of fluoride is based on careful dosage; while high levels can be harmful, the amount used in drinking water is considered safe for everyone.

Buckle up: Navigating the noise around routine vaccination

1375 implied HN points • 17 Dec 24

🏥 Health Politics Vaccination Public Health Epidemiology Health Communication Health Policy

Vaccination has had a huge impact on public health, eradicating diseases like smallpox and reducing cases of polio and measles to near-zero with high vaccination rates.
Most people still trust vaccines, with a significant percentage of parents ensuring their kids are vaccinated, despite the loud voices questioning vaccine safety.
It's normal to have questions about vaccines, but it's important to seek answers from trusted experts to separate fact from fiction.

HHS picks, the House subcommittee report, and pandemic revisionism

1326 implied HN points • 04 Dec 24

🏥 Health Politics Public Health Pandemic response Policy Critique Healthcare system Epidemiology

The new appointments in HHS reflect a mix of people who disagree with Covid-19 policies and those who have ignored real issues. Learning from the pandemic means discussing both the successes and failures honestly.
Covid-19 is not like the flu; it caused a lot of deaths and the vaccines were effective in saving lives. It’s essential to recognize the actual impact and the importance of public health measures that worked.
Many criticisms of pandemic policies lack evidence and understanding of the complexities involved. We should focus on genuine discussions about what went wrong and how to improve in future situations.

Unwanted viral guests at Thanksgiving

1378 implied HN points • 26 Nov 24

🏥 Health Politics Public Health Vaccination Epidemiology

This Thanksgiving, the chance of getting sick is lower than in the past four years, but we still need to be careful as viruses can spread quickly.
Most illnesses right now are from the common cold, and RSV is affecting young kids, so it's smart to be cautious around babies during gatherings.
Vaccination rates are up, which helps prevent severe illness, so it's a good idea to get vaccinated before the holidays if you haven't already.

Seeing the Forest for the Trees

1187 implied HN points • 10 Dec 24

🏥 Health & Wellness Nutrition Public Health Chronic Disease Physical activity Substance Use

Eating well is really important for health. A better diet can help reduce the risk of diseases and save money on healthcare.
Staying active helps improve overall health, but many people find it difficult due to challenges like unsafe neighborhoods or busy schedules. People need safe spaces and support to exercise.
Reducing substance use, like smoking and excessive drinking, is crucial for health. Public health efforts have made progress, but more work is needed to keep improving.

How to (and not to) detox in the New Year

850 implied HN points • 10 Jan 25

🏥 Health & Wellness Nutrition Detox Fitness Mental health Public Health

A balanced diet with good nutrition helps your body detox naturally. Eating healthy foods supports your organs and keeps everything working well.
Staying hydrated is important. Drinking enough water helps your kidneys and digestive system do their job of removing waste.
Many trendy detox methods, like extreme diets or detox drinks, are not proven to work and can sometimes be harmful. It's better to focus on healthy habits like regular exercise and reducing alcohol.

The Dose (November 22)

1320 implied HN points • 22 Nov 24

🏥 Health Politics Public Health Vaccines Epidemiology Disease Control Healthcare policy

Egg prices are rising due to avian flu outbreaks, which are affecting poultry farms. This means some people might pay more than $4 for a dozen eggs.
A new study shows that pregnant women should aim to get their RSV vaccine at least five weeks before their due date for better protection for their babies.
Good news on sexually transmitted infections (STIs): rates have decreased for the first time in years, thanks to better testing and public health campaigns.

The future of vaccine policy in the United States

1399 implied HN points • 13 Nov 24

🏥 Health Politics Vaccination policy Public Health Epidemiology Government Influence

Most Americans still believe in the importance of vaccinations, with a large percentage supporting routine childhood vaccines. This shows that vaccines are still widely trusted by the public.
Vaccine policy in the U.S. is mainly controlled by individual states, not the federal government. This means each state can set different rules about vaccinations.
The federal government can indirectly influence vaccine policies through agencies like the FDA and CDC. Changes in their approach could affect how vaccines are reviewed and recommended.

The Dose (December 13)

953 implied HN points • 13 Dec 24

🏥 Health Politics Healthcare policy Vaccines Public Health Disease Prevention Health Insurance

There's a national discussion happening about the U.S. healthcare system, revealing mixed feelings among Americans. Even though many like their insurance, dissatisfaction rises when they actually need to use it.
H5N1 testing in milk is finally being implemented, which is important for tracking its spread. This change comes after significant public health concern and other testing efforts at local levels.
Moderna's RSV vaccine trial for infants was stopped because some babies became sicker after receiving it. This shows the ongoing challenge of developing safe vaccines for young children.

The Dose (December 6)

1002 implied HN points • 06 Dec 24

🏥 Health Politics Public Health Vaccines Infectious Diseases Health Policy Epidemiology

Getting vaccinated for Covid-19 at the right time can make a big difference. If you haven't had Covid recently, fall is a good time for your shot.
The flu vaccine is important and does not give you the flu. It reduces severe cases, and many misunderstandings about it need to be cleared up.
HPV vaccinations are really effective and can significantly lower the risk of cervical cancer in young women. This shows how important vaccines are for public health.