Good morning! Today, we look at emerging infectious disease concerns, including a new influenza strain that could pose challenges in the US, and health experts' concerns about current COVID-19 vaccination rates.

Also, read about physician shortage issues at home and abroad.

Identifying atypical motor patterns early opens the door to interventions that can completely change a child's developmental future. This accredited activity shows you how to spot delays using a 30-second, 4-position observational exam.

Nearly one-third of people worldwide have a headache disorder, with women experiencing more than double the related health problems than men, according to a study published in The Lancet Neurology. Migraines account for about 90% of headache-related years lived with disability, even though they are less common than tension headaches. The study also found that medication overuse contributes to the disability associated with headaches.

A new H3N2 influenza strain could pose a significant challenge to the US health care system, according to international reports. The strain has caused a surge in cases in the UK, particularly among young adults and children, and has acquired several mutations, making it different from the strain included in this year's vaccine. The CDC has yet to provide updated national data because of recent disruptions, but experts recommend vaccination for protection.

About 23% of US adults received a COVID-19 vaccination last season, compared with 47% who got a flu shot, according to the CDC, and health experts are concerned that vaccination rates may decrease even more this year due to conflicting advice and new, narrower federal recommendations. "A lot of misinformation is going around regarding COVID," said Alein Haro-Ramos, an assistant professor at the University of California-Irvine, adding, "Vaccine hesitancy is going to increase."

A pilot study published in the Journal of Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis shows that a cognitive behavioral therapy app can improve mental health and quality of life for people with psoriatic disease. The study involved 30 participants using the Mindset app, which offers CBT techniques and support from lay coaches. Results indicated high satisfaction and significant reductions in depression and anxiety symptoms, suggesting the app's potential as a tool to enhance holistic patient care.

A study in JAMA Pediatrics found that confirmed cases of child maltreatment decreased from 2012 to 2023, but disparities persisted, particularly among Black children and girls. Data from the National Child Abuse and Neglect Data System showed that Black children had the highest rates of maltreatment across all subtypes, while girls experienced more maltreatment than boys, with the disparity for sexual abuse increasing over time.

Researchers from the University of California have developed a wearable device called A-Heal that uses bioelectronics and artificial intelligence to accelerate wound healing by 25%. Initially funded by the Department of Defense to aid soldiers and civilians with wartime injuries, the device automates the process of wound assessment and treatment, mimicking a physician's actions. The researchers see broader applications, particularly for hard-to-heal wounds, such as those in patients with diabetes.

Referring families to the 211 community resource hotline increased enrollment in developmental and behavioral services by 59% for young children at risk of developmental delays, researchers reported in the journal Pediatrics. The free hotline is available nationwide and helps people find local resources for food, housing, employment and health care services.