The Homeland Security Digital Library (HSDL) maintains a collection of the Centers for Disease Control’s (CDC) Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR), which collects and analyzes data from the United States Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) on epidemiology and public health. Each issue of the MMWR is packed with raw and analyzed public health data and scientific studies from some of the top minds in the United States. Below we highlight some of the most current and informative studies included in their weekly reports. 

Here are some important articles you may have missed from Volume 73, Issues 37-40 of the Centers for Disease Control’s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR) Series. 

Oct. 10, 2024 / No. 40

Featured Article:

“Notes from the Field: Mpox Cluster Caused by Tecovirimat-Resistant Monkeypox Virus — Five States, October 2023–February 2024“

This article discusses a viral mutation of Mpox that has become resistant to Tecovirimat. Small clusters were discovered in California, Illinois, Louisiana, New York, and Texas. The authors recommend further monitoring and discuss the importance of using Tecovirimat in a way that is consistent with CDC’s Investigational New Drug protocol.

Oct. 3, 2024 / No. 39

Featured Article:

“COVID-19–Associated Hospitalizations Among U.S. Adults Aged ≥18 Years — COVID-NET, 12 States, October 2023–April 2024“

COVID-19 continues to be risky especially for adults age 65 and older. This study notes that of the hospitalized patients from October 2023-April 2024, 70% were 65 and older, and only 12 percent had received the recommended COVID-19 2023–2024 formula vaccine. The article urges everyone eligible to reduce their risks by getting up-to-date vaccinations and seeking prompt treatment.

Sept. 26, 2024 / No. 38

Featured Article:

“COVID-19–Associated Hospitalizations and Maternal Vaccination Among Infants Aged <6 Months — COVID-NET, 12 States, October 2022–April 2024”

No COVID-19 vaccinations are currently approved for infants under six months of age, and this age group continues to be the second most at-risk for complications and death due to COVID-19. Prevention efforts could be improved with increased vaccination of pregnant persons.

Sept. 19, 2024 / No. 37

Featured Article:

“Use of COVID-19 Vaccines for Persons Aged ≥6 Months: Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices — United States, 2024–2025”

A revised and updated COVID-19 vaccine has been developed for the 2024-2025 season and is recommended for ages 6 months and older. This article discusses methods used to determine age group eligibility, preliminary results of the vaccine effectiveness (VE) and safety, recommendations for usage, and more.

For more information on COVID, visit HSDL’s COVID-19 Resource Archive. You can also find pandemic-related resources in HSDL’s Focus on Pandemics and Epidemics, and search our statistical resources related to public health. Other HSDL Focus topics that may be of interest are Fentanyl and Opioids, Vaccine Hesitancy, and Contact Tracing.