Effectiveness of 2024–2025 COVID-19 Vaccines in Children in the United States — VISION, August 29, 2024–September 2, 2025
The CDC analyzed data from the Virtual SARS-CoV-2, Influenza, and Other respiratory viruses Network (VISION) Network to estimate effectiveness of the 2024–2025 COVID-19 vaccines in preventing COVID-19–associated emergency department or Urgent Care visits among children aged 9 months–17 years in the United States. Children aged 9 months–4 years who received a 2024–2025 COVID-19 vaccine dose had an estimated 76% reduction in such visits, and those aged 5–17 years had an estimated 56% reduction, compared with children who did not receive a 2024–2025 vaccine dose. The findings held across a period with mixed levels of prior infection and vaccination, indicating additional protection from the updated vaccines beyond existing immunity. Clinical implications: This suggests pediatric vaccination with the updated vaccines can meaningfully lower Urgent Care and emergency visits for COVID-19 and should be considered in discussions with parents and caregivers to protect children, especially younger age groups with higher hospitalization rates. Full Access: CDC
Human Brain May Only Reach Adulthood After Age 30
A new study suggests that the human brain develops through five distinct life stages, and true adulthood in terms of brain organization may not begin until around age 32. Researchers identified key neurological turning points at ages 9, 32, 66, and 83, with adolescence extending from ages 9 to 32 — a period of peak neural connectivity and plasticity — and adulthood defined by greater stability from 32 to 66. The findings show that the brain’s capacity for reorganization and efficient network communication changes significantly throughout life, challenging the idea that brain maturity is reached in the early 20s. Clinical implications: Understanding these stages could inform when individuals are most susceptible to mental health issues and when recovery from neurological injury may be more robust. It also highlights the need for age-specific approaches in neurology and psychiatry as brain structure and function evolve over decades. Full Access: Medical News
Novel Oral Antibiotic Matches Standard Option for Urogenital Gonorrhea
This phase 3 international trial found that a single oral dose of zoliflodacin was non-inferior to the current standard treatment for uncomplicated urogenital gonorrhea, with similar efficacy and safety profiles. Participants receiving zoliflodacin achieved high microbiological cure rates comparable to the dual-antibiotic regimen, and adverse events were similarly low. Clinical implications: Zoliflodacin may simplify therapy by replacing injectable regimens, enhancing treatment accessibility, and improving patient adherence, particularly in community and resource-limited settings. This advance may also help slow the spread of resistant gonorrheal strains and support public health efforts in STI control. Full Access: The Lancet
Oregon Sets Record for Pertussis Cases Amid Declining Vaccination Rates
Oregon has reported a record-high number of pertussis cases in 2025, surpassing the previous annual record from 1950, with about 1,475 confirmed cases statewide so far this year. The Oregon Health Authority attributes the surge in part to declining vaccination rates. Infants are particularly vulnerable, with numerous infant cases, hospitalizations, and at least one death reported, underscoring the severity of pertussis in this age group. Clinical implications: The outbreak highlights the importance of Tdap vaccination during pregnancy and timely immunization of infants, children, and adults to prevent severe disease and transmission. Health officials are urging improved vaccine coverage and vigilance for respiratory symptoms to protect the most vulnerable populations. Full Access: Oregon Health Authority – Access Weekly Report Here