Healthcare & Life Sciences

FDA Guidance on Physicochemical Characterization of Topical Drug Products

The FDA has issued final guidance for industry on the physicochemical and structural characterization of topical drug products submitted in Abbreviated New Drug Applications (ANDAs). This guidance, which finalizes a draft from October 2022, provides recommendations to support bioequivalence demonstrations for generic topical products.

Rabid Bat Confirmed in Aiken County, SC

The South Carolina Department of Public Health confirmed a rabid bat in Aiken County, with one dog exposed and quarantined. This is the second animal in Aiken County and the 18th statewide this year to test positive for rabies.

Trauma Advisory Council Data and PI Subcommittee Meeting Announcement

The South Carolina Department of Public Health announced that the Trauma Advisory Council Data and PI Subcommittee will hold a virtual meeting on March 20, 2026. The agenda and meeting link are available on the event page.

Hometown Health Heroes Honored for Contributions to Michigan Residents

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) announced the 2026 Hometown Health Hero Award winners for their contributions to public health. Ten individuals and organizations were recognized for improving the health and well-being of Michigan residents.

MDHHS Public Hearing on Weatherization Plan

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is hosting a public hearing on its 2026 Weatherization Assistance Program State Plan. The plan covers July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027, and includes updates to subgrantees, technical documents, and training plans.

Boil Water Advisory Rescinded for White Cloud, Kansas

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has rescinded a boil water advisory for the City of White Cloud, Kansas. The advisory was initially issued due to a waterline break and loss of pressure, but laboratory testing has confirmed the water is now safe for consumption.

Tuttle Creek Cove Diesel Fuel Spill Advisory

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has issued a stream advisory for Tuttle Creek Cove due to a diesel fuel spill from a commercial barge. The public is advised to avoid the cove until remediation efforts are complete and water contact is deemed safe.

Health Canada Recalls Vacuum Bag SU Large Due to Leakage Risk

Health Canada has issued a Type II recall for the Milestone S.R.L. Vacuum Bag SU Large due to a risk of leakage from the specimen container. Healthcare providers are advised to contact the manufacturer for additional information.

Angiographic Catheters Recalled Due to Molded Hub Non-Conformance

Health Canada has issued a recall for AngioDynamics' Soft-Vu and Accu-Vu 4 FR Angiographic Catheters due to a molded hub non-conformance. The defect may prevent guidewire passage, though no injuries have been reported in Canada. Healthcare providers should contact the manufacturer for information.

Hawaii DOH Reports Measles Virus in Kauaʻi Wastewater

The Hawaii Department of Health (DOH) reported detecting measles virus in a wastewater sample from Kauaʻi County, collected on February 25, 2026. This detection serves as an early indicator, prompting increased monitoring and awareness for potential measles cases statewide.

NY DOH Announces $20M for Abortion Health Care Services

The New York State Department of Health has announced a new $20 million funding opportunity for abortion health care services through the Supplemental Abortion Provider Support Fund. Letters have been issued to 22 potential awardees notifying them of their eligibility for these state grants.

EMA Enhances PRIME Scheme to Accelerate Medicine Development

The European Medicines Agency (EMA) has launched three new features for its PRIME scheme, designed to accelerate the development of medicines targeting unmet medical needs. These tools aim to streamline scientific dialogue and provide developers with faster answers and better preparation for marketing authorisation applications.

Texas Medical Board Suspends Physician License for Child Pornography

The Texas Medical Board has temporarily suspended the medical license of An Q. Van, M.D., effective immediately, due to his arrest for possession of child pornography. A hearing will be held to determine further action regarding his license.

Alabama DPH Highlights Risks of Cannabinoid Products During Poison Prevention Week

The Alabama Department of Public Health issued a notice highlighting the risks associated with cannabinoid products, particularly for children, during National Poison Prevention Week. In 2025, the Alabama Poison Information Center managed 469 cases involving cannabinoid exposures.

Tennessee Department of Health Reinforces Naloxone Importance Amid Cychlorphine Fatalities

The Tennessee Department of Health issued a notice reinforcing the importance of naloxone due to over 30 fatal overdoses linked to cychlorphine since October 2025. The notice provides information on recognizing opioid overdoses and administering naloxone, which is effective but may require repeat dosing.

Rural Health Workforce Retention Funding Opportunity

North Dakota Health and Human Services announced a new funding opportunity for its Rural Health Transformation Program, offering approximately $10 million to support the retention of healthcare professionals in critical access hospitals. The application deadline is April 30, 2026.

Health Canada Task Force on Pharmaceutical Access and Innovation

Health Canada and Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada have launched a joint Pharmaceutical and Life Sciences Sector Task Force. The task force will support access to pharmaceuticals and identify solutions to drive innovation and growth in the Canadian life sciences sector.

Recreational Water Advisory Partially Lifted in Montgomery County

Maryland health officials announced the partial lifting of a recreational water advisory in Montgomery County, impacted by a recent sewage spill. The advisory has been lifted for areas downriver from the spill site, beginning with Lock 8, based on acceptable E.coli bacteria levels.

Oregon WIC Annual Report Highlights Program Impact

The Oregon Health Authority released its 2025 annual report for the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program. The report highlights increased WIC benefit spending, expanded food options, and improved access in rural communities, underscoring the program's role in supporting healthy families and local economies.

HHS Recognizes Poison Prevention Week

The North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS) is recognizing Poison Prevention Week to raise awareness about poisoning risks and prevention. In 2025, the North Dakota Poison Help line received over 5,800 calls from residents, primarily concerning medications.

FDA Early Alert: Handy Solutions Heating Pad Issue

The FDA issued an Early Alert regarding a potentially high-risk issue with Handy Solutions Neck & Shoulders Heating Pads manufactured by Navajo Manufacturing Company. The device can overheat and cause burns or property damage, with four serious injuries reported.

New Mexico Health Officials Warn of Heat Illness

New Mexico health officials have issued a warning about heat illness due to rising temperatures expected to exceed 90 degrees. The notice highlights vulnerable populations and provides preventative measures. Last summer, there were 834 heat-related emergency department visits in the state.

HSA Warns Public About Products with Banned or Potent Medicinal Ingredients

The Health Sciences Authority (HSA) in Singapore has issued a warning regarding four products found to contain banned or potent medicinal ingredients, including steroids and sibutramine. Three consumers experienced serious adverse effects after consuming these products. HSA is working to remove listings and investigate sellers.

Palliative Care Council Meeting Notice

The Ohio Department of Health has issued a notice for an upcoming public meeting of the Palliative Care and Quality of Life Interdisciplinary Council. The meeting is scheduled for March 26, 2026, in Columbus, Ohio, and is open to the public.

CMS Medicare Data Application for Performance Measurement Comment Period

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) is seeking public comment on its intention to collect information related to Medicare data applications for performance measurement. This notice is part of the Paperwork Reduction Act process, requiring a 60-day public comment period.

CMS Seeks Public Comment on Information Collection

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is seeking public comment on its intention to collect information from the public under the Paperwork Reduction Act. The notice provides a 60-day comment period for interested parties to submit feedback on the proposed information collection.

FDA Indexes New Drug for Ornamental Finfish Parasites

The FDA has added Prazi-Med, a praziquantel powder for immersion, to the Index of Legally Marketed Unapproved New Animal Drugs for Minor Species. This drug treats internal and external parasites in ornamental finfish, providing a faster and less expensive pathway to market for such products.

WHO Report: Child Mortality Slows, 4.9 Million Die Before Five

A new UN report indicates that while child deaths have fallen globally since 2000, the pace of reduction has slowed significantly since 2015. In 2024, 4.9 million children died before their fifth birthday, with preventable causes like malnutrition and infectious diseases being major factors. The report highlights disparities in healthcare access, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa and conflict-affected regions.

Atropine Eye Drops: Medication Error Risk in Children Under 3

The French National Agency for Medicines and Health Products Safety (ANSM) has issued a notice regarding the risk of medication errors with atropine eye drops in children under 3 years old. The notice highlights specific risks and provides recommendations to prevent these errors.

CDC Draft IDLH Value Profile for Lewisite

The CDC has released a draft Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health (IDLH) value profile for Lewisite. This document is open for public comment and provides scientific information to inform occupational safety standards.

NIOSH Seeks Public Comment on Draft Lewisite IDLH Value Profile

The CDC's NIOSH is requesting public comment on a draft Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health (IDLH) Value Profile document for the chemical lewisite. The comment period closes on May 18, 2026.

ANSM Safety Alert for Soltive SuperPulsed Laser Systems

The French ANSM has issued a safety alert (R2607992) regarding Soltive SuperPulsed laser systems, following a security action initiated by Olympus. Affected users have been notified directly by the manufacturer.

ANSM Safety Alert: B. Braun Infusion Sets and Mentor Tissue Expanders

The ANSM has issued a safety alert regarding specific lots of B. Braun infusion sets and Mentor tissue expanders. A lot recall has been implemented by the manufacturer, B. Braun Medical Inc., and Mentor. Affected users have been notified.

SC Board of Pharmacy: Revised Vaccine Administration Protocol

The South Carolina Board of Pharmacy has revised its protocol for vaccine administration by pharmacists, effective September 17, 2025. The primary change allows pharmacists, interns, and technicians to administer FDA-approved COVID-19 vaccines without a practitioner's order, following specific professional recommendations.

Idaho Board of Pharmacy Grants Medication Authority to Naturopaths

The Idaho Board of Pharmacy has announced that naturopaths are now granted medication authority. This change expands the scope of practice for licensed naturopathic physicians in Idaho, allowing them to prescribe certain medications.

Idaho Board of Pharmacy: Expedited Temporary Licensure Pathway for Rite Aid Closure

The Idaho Board of Pharmacy has established an expedited temporary licensure pathway due to the closure of Rite Aid pharmacies. This pathway aims to ensure continuity of pharmaceutical services for patients affected by the closures.

Idaho Pharmacy Licensure Renewal Cycle and Fee Updates

The Idaho Board of Pharmacy is updating its licensure renewal cycles and fees effective July 1, 2025. Pharmacist licenses will now expire on the licensee's birthday, with renewals shifting to a two-year cycle, and associated fees will double for biennial renewals.

Idaho Pharmacy Board: Ivermectin OTC Update

The Idaho Board of Pharmacy has issued an update regarding the over-the-counter availability of Ivermectin. This notice clarifies regulatory standing following legislative changes, referencing Senate Bill 1211.

CMS Seeks Public Comment on Information Collection Proposals

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is seeking public comment on its intention to collect information from the public, as required by the Paperwork Reduction Act. This notice provides an opportunity for stakeholders to comment on proposed information collections, including revisions to existing ones.

CMS Seeks Public Comment on Information Collection Activities

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is seeking public comment on its intention to collect information, specifically regarding the State-based Exchange Annual Reporting Tool (SMART). This notice is part of the Paperwork Reduction Act process, allowing for public input on the necessity and utility of the proposed information collection.

FDA Draft Guidance on Alternatives to Animal Testing in Drug Development

The FDA has issued draft guidance to assist drug developers in validating new approach methodologies (NAMs) as alternatives to animal testing in drug development. This guidance supports the FDA's roadmap to reduce animal testing and bring safe, effective drugs to market sooner.

Colorado Food Program Highlights Success and Urges Provider Enrollment

The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment is highlighting the success of the Colorado Food Program, which serves over 15 million meals annually. The department is encouraging new child and adult day care centers to enroll in the federal initiative to receive reimbursement for nutritious meals.

CMS Agency Information Collection Activities Proposed for Public Comment

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is seeking public comment on proposed information collections under the Paperwork Reduction Act. The comment period is open for 60 days, closing on May 18, 2026.

CMS Seeks Public Comment on Information Collection Activities

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is requesting public comment on its intention to collect information from the public, as required by the Paperwork Reduction Act. This notice provides an opportunity for comment on the necessity, utility, and burden of proposed information collections.

FDA Determination: Methergine Injection Not Withdrawn for Safety or Effectiveness

The FDA has determined that Methergine (methylergonovine maleate) injection was not withdrawn from sale for safety or effectiveness reasons. This determination allows the FDA to approve abbreviated new drug applications (ANDAs) for generic versions of this product, provided other requirements are met.

FDA Notice: Preparation for Cosmetics Regulation Meeting and Request for Comments

The FDA is requesting public comments to prepare for the twentieth International Cooperation on Cosmetics Regulation (ICCR-20) annual meeting. The input will help inform the agency's participation in discussions on cosmetics regulation. Comments are due by May 18, 2026.

FDA: Gluten Labeling and Cross-Contact Comment Period Extension

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has extended the public comment period for its request for information regarding gluten labeling and preventing cross-contact in packaged foods. The original notice was published on January 22, 2026, and the comment period is now extended to April 22, 2026.

FDA Guidance on Topical Drug Product Characterization for ANDAs

The FDA has issued a final guidance document for industry on the physicochemical and structural characterization of topical drug products submitted in abbreviated new drug applications (ANDAs). This guidance provides recommendations to assist applicants in identifying dosage forms and describing critical performance properties to support bioequivalence demonstrations for generic topical products.

OTC Monograph Drug Facility Fee Rates for FY 2026

The FDA has published the Over-the-Counter (OTC) Monograph Drug Facility (MDF) fee rates for fiscal year 2026. These fees are authorized by the Over-the-Counter Monograph Drug User Fee Amendments (OMUFA II) and support FDA's OTC monograph drug activities.

FDA Advisory Committee Renewal: Obstetrics, Reproductive and Urologic Drugs

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced the renewal of the Obstetrics, Reproductive and Urologic Drugs Advisory Committee for an additional two years. The committee's charter will now be in effect until March 23, 2028, continuing its role in advising on drug safety and effectiveness.