Osterholm Update Episode 196: Flu Shifts: Why Vaccines Still Matter
Nov 20, 2025
Explore the latest trends in flu, including a potential vaccine mismatch with emerging H3N2 subclade. Discover the unfortunate loss of measles elimination status in Canada and the implications for the U.S. Learn about the H5N1 outbreak affecting mammals in Antarctica and why its severity varies by species. Delve into the serious issue of infant botulism linked to formula recalls. The discussion emphasizes the critical importance of vaccination and public health efforts against respiratory illnesses.
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Emerging H3N2 Subclade May Mismatch Vaccine
- A new H3N2 subclade (K) emerged after vaccine strain selection, creating a likely mismatch for 2025-26 vaccines.
- That mismatch could reduce vaccine effectiveness but does not indicate a pandemic risk.
Podcast Team Behind The Scenes
- Michael Osterholm thanked the podcast production team for improving content quality during his book tour.
- He emphasized the team's role in making information factual, timely, and usable.
Vaccine Timing Hurts Match With Rapid Drift
- WHO chooses vaccine strains months ahead, forcing selections for a fast-changing virus.
- Long manufacturing lead times create systemic vulnerability to late antigenic drift.
