12/29/2025
🩺 𝗗𝗮𝗶𝗹𝘆 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗹𝘁𝗵 𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗨𝗽𝗱𝗮𝘁𝗲 — 𝗗𝗲𝗰𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝟮𝟵, 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟱
P𝗿𝗼𝘃𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗱 𝗯𝘆 𝗣𝗮𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗹𝘁𝗵 𝗣𝗿𝗶𝗺𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗲
🇺🇸 National Updates
1️⃣ CDC reports flu activity remains elevated following holiday gatherings, with increased outpatient and ER visits.
2️⃣ CMS issues a final reminder that telehealth billing flexibilities expire December 31, 2025, unless extended by Congress.
🇨🇱 Texas Updates
1️⃣ Texas public health officials note rising influenza-related pneumonia cases, especially among seniors and long-term care residents.
2️⃣ North Texas urgent care centers report higher volumes for respiratory and gastrointestinal illnesses.
🌍 Global Health Alerts
1️⃣ WHO reports sustained global influenza circulation during peak winter travel season.
2️⃣ Parts of Africa and South Asia report increased cholera activity; travelers should follow food and water safety precautions.
👩⚕️ Clinical Tips for Providers
* Encourage early evaluation for post-holiday respiratory symptoms, especially in high-risk patients.
* Prepare workflows for telehealth coding and billing changes effective January 1, 2026.