Science Quickly Vaccine Shakeups, Brain Injury Warnings and Boozy Chimps
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Sep 22, 2025 New changes in the CDC's vaccine committee could impact vaccine access as insurers promise continued coverage until 2026. Recent studies reveal alarming brain injuries in contact sports, highlighting risks even before signs of CTE are evident. Climate change is associated with a dramatic rise in heat-related deaths across Europe. Plus, fascinating research shows chimpanzees enjoy a surprising amount of ethanol in their diet, and some ants are producing hybrid offspring in a unique reproductive strategy.
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Vaccine Panel Overhaul Sparks Confusion
- The ACIP vaccine advisory committee has been overhauled and now features members who have publicly questioned vaccines and COVID severity.
- Rachel Feltman and Lauren Young note this has introduced confusion and shifted meetings away from rigorous scientific review.
Check Insurance Coverage Against ACIP Dates
- AHIP said member insurance plans will keep covering ACIP-recommended vaccines through the end of 2026.
- Keep up to date with ACIP guidance because insurance coverage will follow recommendations current as of Sept 1, 2025.
Early Brain Changes From Repetitive Head Hits
- New research detects inflammation, vascular injury, and neuron loss in contact-sport athletes even before full CTE appears.
- The findings imply repetitive head impacts may cause early, measurable brain degeneration across athletes.