A new study from the Barcelona Institute for Global Health estimates that extreme heat claimed more than 62,700 lives across Europe in 2024, highlighting the escalating toll of climate change. The findings, released on September 22, 2025, underscore vulnerabilities in southern regions and call for urgent adaptation measures. Researchers warn that without swift action, such fatalities could become a grim annual reality.

In a heated Senate testimony on September 17, 2025, former U.S. CDC Director Dr. Elena Monarez accused Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the current Health and Human Services Secretary, of politicizing the agency and undermining public health efforts. Monarez highlighted instances where scientific decisions were allegedly influenced by political agendas, sparking debate over the independence of federal health institutions. This confrontation comes amid ongoing controversies surrounding Kennedy's unconventional views on vaccines and public health policy.

KFF Health News briefings for September 15 and 16, 2025, cover key healthcare developments including policy changes, medical breakthroughs, and public health updates. The reports provide objective insights into U.S. health issues. They highlight ongoing debates on insurance and access.

Mosquito-borne viruses are surging in a warming Europe, as reported in scientific research on September 11, 2025. The increase is linked to climate change facilitating vector spread. This poses new public health challenges for the region.

An NPR report on September 12, 2025, highlighted the ongoing retreat of HIV worldwide, with fewer deaths, decreasing infections, and increased access to life-saving medications. These positive trends have persisted for decades.

FDA Chief Marty Makary stated that an anticipated autism report has not yet been written, describing a Wall Street Journal story on the matter as premature. He indicated the report would be released within a month. Meanwhile, Kenvue's stock dropped following related news.

Florida announced measures to eliminate vaccine mandates in various sectors. This policy shift aims to address public health autonomy concerns. It was reported among top medical news stories for the week.