NYU Langone Experts Comment on Global Flu Vaccine and CTE Concerns
The U.S. Department of Health and Human services (HHS) is directing $550 million towards the growth of two universal flu vaccine candidates, a move lauded by experts in the field. Mark J.Mulligan, MD, Professor at NYU Langone Vaccine Center, expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, stating, “The desire for a universal vaccine is strong in the scientific community and in the public health community.” He further commented on the support from the HHS director, noting, “As a vaccine center director, I’m very happy that the director of HHS, who is known to be a vaccine skeptic, is supporting vaccine research, and especially for a cause like this.” This funding shift from COVID-19 vaccine programs signals a meaningful investment in future influenza preparedness.
In related news, the recent shooting incident in midtown Manhattan, where the suspect left a note referencing “CTE,” has brought renewed attention to Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy. Aaron S. Lord, MD, Chief of Neurology at NYU Langone Hospital-Brooklyn, explained that CTE, a brain condition linked to repeated head injuries, was first identified in boxers as “punch drunk syndrome.” Dr. Lord highlighted that CTE can lead to neurological issues such as early dementia and personality changes, and emphasized the ongoing research into its connection with suicide and suicidal ideation.
Shae Datta, MD, Clinical Assistant Professor in the Department of Neurology at NYU langone hospital-Long Island, further elaborated on CTE, describing it as a degenerative brain disease that develops over “many, many years… after 10-plus years of getting head injury.” Dr. Datta stressed that prevention involves discontinuing activities that cause head impacts. The article also noted that Long Island schools are taking varied approaches to mitigate CTE risks, with some implementing protective measures like Guardian Caps and others modifying practice methods to reduce full-contact scenarios.
